The technique of turning wool or cotton into fibre is one of the most ancient techniques
humans mastered over 2000 years ago.
These techniques have been passed down from generation to generation and today
remain largely the same.
As a group, the Ipswich Historical Society (IHS) Spinners and Weavers share a common love of fibre and textile arts. They enjoy sharing their knowledge and they value tradition, innovation and beauty.
Every fibre has a story.
These ladies can look at a piece of cloth and tell you what it is made of, where it might have come from and appreciate the many hours and affection the maker has put into it.
Artisans from around Ipswich meet on Monday and Thursday of each week and the first, second and fourth Sunday of each month in Brighton house at the Cooneana Heritage Centre.
Moores Pocket resident Dorothy Walsh (pictured at top) has been a member since 1984, with the group celebrating their 40th anniversary last year.
“I learned to spin when I was 12,” Ms Walsh explains.
“My family visited friends who lived on a sheep station. The lady pulled out an Ashford spinning wheel and hers was painted bright red. I have never seen anyone with a wheel painted like it again.
“Spinning and weaving are rare skills, we’re classed as practitioners of the lost arts.
“We have got such a wealth of skills here and everyone is happy to share.”
Dorothy has passed her skills onto her three grandchildren who also enjoy felting.
Willowbank’s Damaris Parker says they like to spin all sorts of yarns.
“We love to get together for a chat, we don’t just knit jumpers.” Ms Parker said.
“We are about to move back into Brighton House, which is currently being renovated. In the house we have a room for spinning, a room for the loom and we have a library.
“I like to do displays for the front room, I am currently putting up an Anzac display.”
Some of the more unusual things the group has seen is a 16ft tall teddy bear made from fibre glass sheets and miniature knitting which is done with medical wire.
OPEN DAY
IHS Spinners and Weavers will have an open day on Thursday 19 April at Cooneana Heritage Centre from 10am until noon. The cost is $5 and the spinners will gladly encourage you to try spinning using a spindle or a spinning wheel.
For more information on the event contact Dorothy Walsh on 0400 292 189 or send an email to [email protected]
Spinning involves using a spindle or loom to make thread or yarn, by drawing out and twisting fibres of wool, cotton or other material.
Weaving involves two distinct sets of yarn or thread that are interlaced at right angles to form a fabric or cloth.
Other skills the group use are knitting, crocheting, embroidery, felting, basket weaving and using table or floor looms.
