I got my first loom when I was 21. A 60” Glimakra, passed on to me by a non-weaver. I was a brand new beginner at a time when resources and weaving yarn were hard to find. I did not have a lot of money to spend on expensive yarn that might or might not work, so not knowing what else to do, I bought some basic craft string at K-Mart, gathered up some old clothes, and began making rag rugs.

Rag rugs were an inexpensive way for me to learn about weaving. I found some books on weaving tapestries, adapted the techniques for weaving with rags, developed a few techniques of my own, and did a whole lot of playing and experimentation.

I was not a part of a weaving community at that time, and there was no one telling me what I could and couldn’t do. I wove pieces that defied all of the rules that I had not yet learned, and in doing so, created a body of work that was original and innovative. It was a great way to learn about color, form, and design.

Over the years I have continued to create tapestries and wall hangings made from rags. When my son was very young, he would spend time with me, watching me weave. He had his own ideas about weaving and encouraged me to push things further. I kept trying to explain to him that it wasn’t possible to leave empty spaces in the middle of weavings, and he kept asking. Finally I gave in. I strongly believe in nurturing a child’s creativity and he was so strong in his vision, that I at least had to try.

So many amazing things have opened up while weaving with rags. It is the foundation of my journey as a weaver. It gave me a safe structure to explore my own creativity and to guide my son on his own creative journey. I have been blessed with opportunities to travel around the US and teach this body of work to wonderful weavers and in the process, help nurture their creativity.

I am excited to be sharing this body of work with you.