A Workable Studio Space

While working to finish weaving up the remaining warp on the countermarche loom, finishing the sleying of the drawcord warp, cranking more socks, and waiting for other socks to dry, I thought I'd share a few pics of my "new" studio space. Building a new space or adding on to my home was not an option, so I took over the main floor of my home (except the kitchen), bringing looms, equipment, and yarns down to my former living room and laundry area, making my work area accessible to visitors.

My countermarche loom, where I spend a good deal of time, sits in front of the big window looking out at Torch Lake. A stereo is nearby for public radio and classical music. In warmer weather, open windows and doors, a (Gregorian) windchime and birdsong are all the music that are needed. There is a porch the width of the house, a wonderful spot to sit and spin on nice days, as well as washing fleece and setting out drying racks.

Although not set up in this pic, the sock machine is most often set up between the two looms, giving me space to move about and a bench on which to set cones of yarns for socks about to be made.

The drawloom needs a long wall, and it was positioned so the bench would be near the windows for daylight. Ratchets are positioned for easy access to advance the warp. A 22" 8 shaft Harrisville sits nearby for smaller projects.

Shelving units holding cones of weaving and sock yarns sit in a darker corner away from sunlight. The desk area is Command Central. A vintage Gallinger rug loom sits nearby, awaiting weft prep.

A wide variety of sock yarn colors allows many different combinations of colors, over 85 so far.

Most of my weaving reference library lives to the right of the desk; various weaving publications are across the room and upstairs.

Lastly, the laundry room was rearranged to accommodate a sewing table as well as a cutting table. Drying rack, ironing board, and washer and drier are nearby.

This has turned out to be a far more convenient arrangement than what I had before. Of course, the living room is now upstairs but we're getting accustomed to that. Now, when I got to my work, it's to a pleasant and organized space. There are additional bins of sheets (for rag rugs), more cones of yarns, fleece, etc. upstairs and in the basement, fairly well labeled.

There is still work to be done. When temps are warmer and windows and doors can be open, the walls need linseed oil and floors need to be refinished, but the studio is well on its way to being ready for visitors. This evening, back to my loom...