The New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival was held last weekend. I went down to Derry, NH early on Saturday morning to get there shortly after opening time. The weather was drizzly and a bit cool but it felt right. One of the vendors told me cool weather helps sales. That makes sense when the subject at hand is wool.
My first order of business was to drop off my circa 1980s Ashford Traditional spinning wheel at the used equipment tent. They were very happy for the donation and I was very happy to let a wheel, that I barely used, go where it will likely find a good home. With business out of the way it was time to explore and have fun.
Fun indeed! It was a fantastic festival this year and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It seems to me there was more to enjoy this year, but it could also be that I missed things in years past. The rug hooking guild was there and, well, you know me: Did I leave their area empty handed? Of course not. A handful of the guild were working on absolutely beautiful rugs, there was a ton of wool everywhere, and spread across one table were a few unfinished rugs which I presumed were for viewing purposes only. Much to my surprise and great delight, it was mentioned that they were on offer. One transaction later and I took possession of this very beautifully started rug. How many unfinished rugs should a person acquire? Is there a limit?
Another purchase from the festival is a Cormo/BFL fleece of gorgeous black and dark grey. 1 lb., 11 oz.
Of my current projects, progress on the rug is steady but slow. Since yesterday, when the weather finally climbed out of the 50's F, and I can now sit out on the deck to work, I think progress will pick up a bit.
I have finished a third skein of Shetland--my best yet. This one makes me happy. 150 yds of light-as-a-feather 3-ply.
Pictures from the Sheep & Wool Festival
