The most wonderful of packages arrived on my doorstep last week. Really, I don't know what could bring more excitement than the delivery of our own yarn, all packed up - washed and spun, in neat and tidy skeins of yarn. This time around, save for one small black fleece that came back as roving, I had it all spun into yarn rather than mostly roving as I've done in the past (because a girl can only spin so much, which isn't very much at all really). We sent this spring's shearing to Battenkill Fibers, and I'm thrilled with the result. I gave it all a good wash and fluff once it was in the door, and waited not-so-patiently for it to dry so I could put it right to use. First, as I guage-swatched (this batch is all worsted weight), and then cast on for a new sweater (Mountain High by Heidi Kirrmaier). It's knitting up so beautifully, but I might be biased of course...given that I love the sheep and all the shepherds who care for them.
And do you see all that lovely white, natural color in there? Just asking for some natural dye? Well, I haven't wasted anytime in that regard either. Looking in the back yard for what is available right now, I'm going to give some Rudbeckia a go. I gathered it and started soaking it last night, and the yarn is in a mordant bath of rust, hoping that might bring be closer to an olive or green color. I have no idea, really, it's all an experiment and just so much fun. This particular experiment might take a while, as I'm going to give everything a good long soak, but I'll be sure to update you when it's done.
And now...back to that knitting. Or maybe I'll just hold that basket of yarn one more time. A dream come true, I tell you. It really is.
