Kathleen began weaving professionally in 1985. She uses cotton, linen, merino wool, silk and rayon fibers to weave into fabric for her line of apparel and accessories in her studio/ shop in Mineral Point. All designs are original, individually cut and sewn by Kathleen, achieving truly one-of-a-kind pieces including custom buttons per garment. Four distinct styles of hand-woven pieces are in progress on four looms and offered in the shop.
1) Non-traditional pattern-work is used to augment natural body lines in garments, making each piece a composition by use of pattern rather than cutting fabric extensively to sew into form-fitting garments. These fabrics are relatively smooth and the colors consistent, as the pattern is the featured element.
2) “Plain-weave” garments start with hand-dyed, highly textured yarns that render variegated, nubby fabrics. Again, garment design minimizes cutting in favor of a lovely ‘hand’ (drape).
3) Kathleen’s line of rayon chenille scarves and hats, a hit since 1991, are some of the most sumptuous, colorful, elegant yet accessible scarves and hats ever. Rayon is a fiber made of wood, chenille describes the structure of the yarn, meaning ‘caterpillar’ in French. Died in gorgeous, rich hues at the mill, the colors are unstoppable and grace the shop walls, creating a special experience for all who visit.
4) Traditional pattern-work in tableware debuted in 2021 and will continue this coming year. This is the most demanding work in the shop and can not be done during open-hours as it requires intense concentration.