Mittens, Mittens, and More Mittens!

Local artist Nancy French, explains her mitten-making craft:

With the cool nights and falling leaves, my hands turn to mitten making.

Many of the mittens that I make are unique, since I only make two pairs of mittens from one sweater. The mittens vary in their thickness and warmth, because different knits felt in their own unique way. Cashmere mittens are very soft but thin and not always the warmest choice. Lambswool felts very well, and is my choice for staying warm. Sometimes I find a cashmere and lambswool mix that is both soft and warm.

To make the mittens, I begin with an old sweater, cutting it apart and paying attention to moth eaten and worn through areas like the elbows and cuffs. Then I put it through several hot water washing machine runs, putting the sweater pieces in a zippered pillow case. After drying in the dryer, the wool is steam ironed. I then cut out the pieces and sew them together by machine. I finish them off with a needle and thread before I steam iron and reshape the final product.

Look for the event details on my Facebook Page at: Designs in Wool and Wood or my Website: www.nancyafrench.com Gallery Website: www.gallery529.com.

Gallery 529 is an artists’ cooperative with more than 30 participating artists. It has paintings, pottery, jewelry, fibre art, wood turned bowls, glass creations. Currently, the juried show, “Memories” is on exhibit. The show “Memories” is a benefit for Alzheimer’s Association. Come vote for your favorite piece of art – the winning artist gets a cash prize! Gallery 529 also offers workshops in the evenings for adults. Enjoy a glass of wine, and do something creative with fellow crafters!

Gallery 529 has new hours. Check the website for more information.