Why art yarn? Why from you?

Often at craft shows or at the farmers market, I’ll get asked these very smart questions, or a variation on them: Why would I buy art yarn? What can I do with it? Why would I buy it from you, and not from a more well-known company?

These are really good, honest, thoughtful questions. I want you to feel like you’ve gotten your money’s worth! Here’s my answers –

Why would I buy art yarn? What can I do with it?

Each skein of art yarn is unique. Every spinner will spin differently, even when taught a technique from the same teacher.

There’s something to be said for the workhorse yarns out there, the worsted and fingering-weights and even commercial bulky yarns – they’re dependable in their results, giving an even finish and look to projects. Their gauge can be easier to estimate. But a workhorse yarn won’t give you an individual, uncommon look to your work – art yarns will. They stand out from the crowd of regular fiber works – adding unparalleled texture, color, and artistry to anything you create.

A small bit can go a long way in creating a difference in your work, so although the price per skein may seem steep, it can actually be quite economical to add a bit to your design.
Art yarns are versatile. They make great edging, fringe or tassels – but they also make stunning full garments or accessories. You can even use them as additions to your wet felting or weaving to create eye-catching effects. Really, you are ONLY limited by your imagination when it comes to art yarn!

 

 

Why would I buy it from you, and not from a more well-known company?

For one, because I am almost always available to tell you more about the yarn you’re buying – what it is made from, how I might use it, what inspired me to make it. You have a direct connection to the artist that you might never have if you purchased from a shop or distributor.

Another great thing about having this direct connection to me is that you can request a similar yarn from me easily, or give me a wish list to work from. I absolutely love custom orders and I’m thrilled to create a special work just for you. I can take into consideration your intended project, color likes and dislikes, and fiber preferences, as well as possible texture desires and issues. It is truly customized service!

Most importantly to me – you’re directly supporting a self-employed artisan. I do this full time, and I put that time to work sourcing my supplies, perfecting my techniques, and tapping into my creative vision to bring you the most colorful and attractive yarns and fibers that I can imagine. I am completely dedicated to my craft and to the task of making your experience with my yarn the very best possible. I know that’s not a guarantee you can get everywhere, and I pride myself on that!

I truly love talking to you! If you’ve met me in person, you know that once you’ve got me talking yarn, it’s hard to get me to stop. I enjoy sharing my expertise via my classes and vending opportunities, and no question will put me off. That’s not just part of the handmade experience as far as I’m concerned… it is something that my job should be about, as it is the fulfilling job of my dreams. You make this possible for me, and I never forget it, my friends.

So there you go! I’m happy to answer even more deep & thoughtful questions, or even silly ones – just ask away. [and by the way – my favorite color is purple, I usually only drink tea and water though I’m a sucker for fresh apple cider, and my fave foods are french pastries and salad, and I see nothing weird about that dichotomy. Yum.]

Want some suggestions for patterns that are great for handspun yarn? Click here!
https://www.threeravens.net/recommended-patterns-for-handspun-yarn/

 

This post was originally published on 10/8/2010 and updated on 2/13/2020.