#279 Autumn 2021

In this issue we travel to Sweden to learn about Swedish sheep breeds and their wool from spinner Josefin Waltin. Gotland sheep featured in issue 277, but there are other Swedish breeds with distinctive characteristics, which have been saved from extinction. Spinners will also be interested in Alison Garnett’s two spinning wheels, one a handbuilt modern wheel and the other an antique, which she brought back to life.

For dyers we have the second part of Linda More’s practical guide to dyeing a colour wheel with acid dyes. Woad not only dyes blue, but also other colours, leading Carolyn Griffiths to experiment during lockdown to see what she could achieve.

Jo Andrews profiles Janet Phillips, well known for her weaving, teaching and books on weave design. At age 16, Janet was inspired by a visit to Bernat Klein’s mill in Galashiels, but by the time she graduated the UK textile industry was disappearing. This led her into creating her own career in weaving. Recalling his mother weaving prompted Dave Griffiths to develop maypole robots that have tablet woven bodies, as a quirky and innovative approach to increasing public understanding of computer programming.

We also have an appreciation of the life of Ann Hecht, weaver and author of textile books, including the classic Art of the Loom, plus a past Journal designer.

Next year, 2022, is the 70th anniversary of the Journal and we will be celebrating this with some special features. We also welcome readers to tell us about favourite articles from the past – something that inspired or informed or what the Journal has meant in their creative life.

Finally, a reminder that many subscriptions are due for renewal at the end of the year. The offer for Guild bulk orders at the discounted price remains available for over three copies mailed to one address.

Hilary Miller, Chair, Journal Editorial Committee