Episode 41: Stitching Over the Days

I’ve come to my blog to write because the overload of commentary on Facebook and Instagram has been much. However, I am grateful that more voices are being added to the conversation. I just felt so drowned.

The murder of George Floyd seems to be the straw that broke the camel’s back. I know it felt that way with me. Why? Because this is nothing new, but it was like “When is this going to stop?” I spoke with friends and family. We went through so many emotions. Rage. Anger. Sadness. Hopelessness. Despair. Fear.

I’m from a predominantly Black town in southern USA; yet, the state is fraught with racial tensions. We were taught our history heavily by our Black teachers, leaders, and family. It is for that reason that I know the injustices against Blacks in this country go so far back. Very far. But, for the sake of time I’ll say Emmet Till’s horrific death led to the Civil Rights Movement. More would die. Are still dying. George Floyd’s death has re-energized the movement as we boldly state, “Black Lives Matter!”

Yet…it makes me so sad that my mother who turns 70 on July 26 is asking me and others where the protests are being held because she wants to join. She’s been going through this her entire life. She shouldn’t have to. It makes me sad that my nieces and nephews are joining in the movement and don’t have the luxury to just be children. Yet…it also gives me courage because they are willing to fight for a better future. That is hope.

How does this connect with the fiber arts? As the first statement of this post states, I’m Black. I don’t have the luxury to escape into my knitting, sewing, etc. Even when I’m creating something that brings me joy, I’m simultaneously aware of the injustice. When people come to my platforms and find inspiration from my crafts that makes me so happy. The appreciation and unity we have for the arts has always brought me such joy.

Now, I’ve been getting an influx of followers due to this unrest. I’ll admit I don’t know how I feel about this. I have NEVER wanted to be the token black girl. Please don’t make me a token.

ETA: Although I appreciate people wanting to support a Black crafter, I hope that people are here for my creative content. This will be the main focus of the page. However, I will share resources for racial justice from time to time.

Episode 34: Stitching Over the Days

Posted on May 23, 2020 by cmc

Find me:

Instagram – cleocmc

Ravelry – cleocmc

Ravelry Group – Stitching Over the Days

Finished Objects:

Honeysuckle by Marie Wallin

Lawrenson by Lily Kate France

Butterick 5466

Works-In-Progress/Future Projects:

Angharad the Donkey

Caitlin the Giraffe

Traigh by Jade Starmore

What I’m Wearing:

Lawrenson Sweater

Butterick 5895

Chatter:

Kim Hargreaves Along Winners Update

Rowan Spring/Summer Trunk Show

Rowan Spring Trunk Show 2020

Posted on May 23, 2020 by cmc

trunkshow collage for cover

Wow. I’m actually inspired to write a proper blog post. It’s been years.

Let me tell you about a story about an amazing local yarn store. It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Rowan yarns and their designers. Whenever there is a new yarn or new trunk show, I make it to the shop as soon as possible. Due to the pandemic, seeing the new Spring/Summer 2020 trunk show was not going to happen…or so I thought. Liz, the owner of Luna Lola (Columbia, SC), contacted me. She told me that she could bring the trunk show to me (curbside, of course) and that I could keep it for a few days! What did I do to deserve such special people and treatment? But hey, I’m not complaining. Lol! Seriously, I am beyond grateful and this really made my week.

Now, let me share the perks of having a trunk show at home. While I quite enjoy seeing the samples at the store, I always feel hesitant and shy to ask the staff to take pics of me in the garments. I also never try on the garments as long as I want because I’m always thinking that I may overdo it. (This is all in my head. I know.) Well, wearing the garments at home gave me the opportunity to try it on with different wardrobe pieces. I was able to do numerous twirls in the mirror. Then, I started thinking…”Ohh, I could do a quick Look Book and take some photos.” Then, I was like…”Even better, would be a video so you can remember how it looked at every angle.” So, I did just that!

Now, I enjoy clothes. This has always been the case. I remember in high school every night I would try on up to 10 outfits and do twirls for my baby sis, April. She always indulged and gave me her honest input. She still laughs to this day about those nights. So, I thought I’d share the random thought process that goes through my head when trying out clothes…

Rowan Spring Show Initial Thoughts:

Why don’t I make more shawls/wraps? The Sartre shawl feels like a cloud and drapes beautifully. The Samana wrap is gorgeous, but quite thick and heavy. Definitely a Fall/Winter piece for me.
I’m still craving a bright Palermo top–despite making a neutral version. I just knew that yellow color was going to be divine.
Surprisingly, I’m really digging the striped tank. It’s a different shape for me. Will I feel naked with my back out???
I always feel short in dusters. (I actually wore heels for the pictures just to feel taller.) If I were to make this, I would shorten it significantly.
The Hans tunic is gorgeous. However, I’m not a tunic person. I would lengthen by 2 inches and wear as a dress with one of my short slips underneath.
The Tracy tank is calling to me. But, what about the matching cardigan? I have yet to make a twinset…
Yes. I’m going to try on the men’s cardigan because I’m a sucker for Softyak DK paired with cables. Also, I want to see how this shade of blue looks against my complexion.
I don’t want to mess up my hair, so I’m not trying on the hat. Very pretty colors.

Details of the samples:

Palermo by Lisa Richardson, Rowan Issue 67
006 Striped Tank by Chloe Thurlow, Mode Collection Two
Tracy and Hepburn by Arne and Carlos, Rowan Issue 67
Hans by Grace Jones (nee Melville), Rowan Issue 67
007 Longline Cardigan by Georgia Farrell, Mode Collection Two
Sartre by Georgia Farrell, Rowan Issue 67
Samana Wrap by Martin Storey, Rowan Island Blend Fine
Lee by Martin Storey, Rowan Cape Bay
Haida Hat by Lisa Richardson, Rowan Island Blend Fine