Fancy trying something new....?
I only have ONE hobby!
It's called: 'Can I do that...?'
sub-section: 'using natural materials'
sub sub-section Timescale: 'pre-historic onwards'
special interest area: 'nature connection'
I just have a curiosity about all sorts of things. I have always been accused of starting things and not finishing them before moving onto something new. And it is probably true. But since I started following my heart and my instincts, I have found that all my 'hobbies' are linked in someway. Skills from one interest can be used or interchanged in other areas.
Nålbinding
Nålbinding is a yarn craft that pre-dates knitting and crochet. It is mostly associated with Scandinavia, dating back to the Viking era. Examples being found during archealogical investigations. But has been found in many other areas around the world.
It involves the use of short lengths of wool being knotted together to form a fabric, using a single short needle. As more yarn is needed to extend the work, new lengths are felted together.
Different knots produce different textures and designs and are often named after the place where examples were first found. E.g.: York stitch or Oslo stitch.
Because it involves a knotting system, the result is a fabric that doesn't unravel. Often used to make hats, mittens or scarves, but can be adapted in all sorts of ways depending on the skill of the maker.
I was attracted to it for a few reasons. Firstly because of the use of wool only; secondly, because I could whittle my own needles; and thirdly; because of my Scandinavian heritage. It just fitted.
I am by no means an expert, but i feel competant enough to pass on the basics to get someone else started.
Peg Loom Weaving.
This is a new interest that i discovered while attending the 'Huntress & Gatheress Retreat' offered by the WildHarvest School of self reliance. (highly recommended)
It is a very old skill that uses a loom made from wood with drilled holes and cut dowel pegs. Easily constructed at home.
My early attempts were using raw sheeps fleece to make sit mats or a sleep mat for my tent. Very comfy and warm!
But you could use strips of old fleece, t-shirt material or toweling. Anything really.
Go Balmy!
Do you see what I did there?
Natural balms. Easy to make. And why not? Why spend £££ when you can make it yourself. And they make great gifts at Xmas!
I would be happy to receive a homemade selection of balms.
Ingredients can be picked in the woods, used to infuse base oils. Once infused the base oils are then heated with bees wax and a drop or two of essential oil added.
Those tiny jars from cream teas or holiday breakfast....well now you know what you can re-use them for!
"A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one."
Cordage
Often a popular skill used in Bushcraft circles, it can also be a very useful skill.
The process involves choosing and collecting suitable vegetation, drying over a period of time, then re-adding moisture before twisting into a double ply cord or string, which is surprisingly and impressively strong.
I actually find the process very relaxing and therapeutic, with the added bonus of making something practical.
Various plants can be used including nettle, dandelion, conifer roots and various barks and grasses.
Macrame stars
I don't do macrame, other than this little item that was taught to me at the Nature Therapy Conference. But I thought it would be a nice little addion to a day of crafting. There are lots of options to decorate and personalise.
Leatherwork
Aaaah, I love a bit of leatherwork! It is such a versatile medium with which to work. It is tough and durable, can be dyed in various colours. Learning just a few skills can give you repair options for all sorts of things. I have made all sorts of containers, boxes and pouches, bags and book covers. Decorated with stamps, carving, stitching or lacing. These items could last for years and years if treated right.
Whittling
It starts with a little bit of playing with a pen knife and a stick and before you know it you are making spoons and kuksas and bowls & carving figurines of bearded wizards!
Very therapeutic!
n.b. Keep sticking plasters nearby!
Weaving with natural materials
This started with Bramble.... I know! Who'd have thought? But it works great!
Bramble is readily available, pretty much anywhere. It's a bit of a nuisance in all honesty, apart from blackberries of course.
Cut Bramble stems when they are fairly young and pliable, strip off the thorns with something like some heavy duty leather gloves and weave it! Simple!
When it dries out it turns a beautiful copper brown.
These items are all around us... nettle.....dandelion....bramble....and its free! Go and use it!
If you'd like to come and have a go at some of the above mentioned crafts, look out for 'Wildcraft Days' that will be advertised on Facebook.