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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia welcomes Grayson Erlbacher, the general manager of Erlbacher Knitting Machines. They discuss the vibrant community surrounding circular sock knitting, the importance of events like the crank-in, and the history and evolution of knitting machines. Grayson shares insights into the company's journey, the significance of fostering a supportive environment for knitters, and the future of machine knitting. The conversation highlights the blend of craftsmanship and community in the fibre arts world. 

Takeaways

• The crank-in experience fosters community and connection among knitters.
• Erlbacher Knitting Machines emphasizes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at events.
• Understanding the manufacturing process enhances appreciation for knitting machines.
• Community feedback is crucial for improving events and experiences.
• The history of knitting machines is rich and tied to significant historical events.
• Grayson transitioned from nursing to managing a family business in knitting machines.
• The company has seen a rise in younger knitters interested in machine knitting.
• Crafting has become a lucrative market compared to traditional industries.
• Erlbacher Knitting Machines focuses on customer satisfaction and support.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia Lo interviews Andrew Bryson, a passionate weaver and teacher, who shares his journey into the world of inkle and tablet weaving. Andrew discusses his background in fibre arts, the intricacies of different weaving techniques, and the importance of overcoming the fear of starting a new craft. They discuss the freedom that comes from pursuing creative passions without the pressure of commercial success, the cultural significance of weaving across different societies, and the need for a shift towards sustainable practices in fashion. 

Takeaways:

• Andrew Bryson has been weaving for about five years and has a deep respect for historical weaving techniques.
• He emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge within the fibre arts community.
• Inkle weaving is a form of band weaving that is warp-faced and often involves hand manipulation for patterning.
• Tablet weaving is more complex and allows for a variety of techniques and patterns.
• Both inkle and tablet weaving can be as intricate as multi-shaft loom weaving.
• The loom is just a tool; the creativity comes from the weaver's choices.
• Starting with weaving can be daunting, but it's important to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
• The value of the process and learning in fibre arts is often overlooked.
• Materials should not be treated as too precious; the experience of creating is what matters.
• Balancing a full-time job with a passion for weaving requires intentional time management.
• Pressure on creativity can stifle artistic expression. Creative freedom allows for exploration without constraints.
• Weaving is a universal cultural practice; these techniques are vital for cultural preservation. Historical techniques connect us to our past.
• Learning traditional crafts cannot be replaced by technology.
• The fast fashion culture lacks sustainability.
• Repairing items is a growing movement.
• Engaging in fibre arts fosters community and creativity.

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Join Felicia Lo from SweetGeorgia Yarns as she reflects on the company's upcoming anniversary! September 2025 marks 20 years since its humble beginnings, starting with hand-dyed yarns made right at her dining room table. Felicia shares her amazement at how quickly time has flown by since starting SweetGeorgia Yarns and talks about how and why they founded the School of SweetGeorgia and now the new SweetGeorgia Community.

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In this episode of the SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Fiona McLean and Amanda Milne of Knit Social about the evolution of Knit City over the past decade, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the exciting expansion of their events to new locations. They discuss the importance of community in the fibre arts, the introduction of new shows in Montréal, Calgary, and Toronto, and the unique retreats they offer. The conversation highlights the resilience and adaptability of the knitting community, as well as the innovative approaches they are taking to engage with new audiences and continue to grow their events.

Takeaways

• It has been 10 years since we last spoke together on the SweetGeorgia Show.
• We were just about to launch our first Knit City Montréal when March 2020 pandemic shutdowns took place.
• We have four shows across Canada now: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montréal, two shows happening each year.
• We have a really great group of makers participating in our events and volunteers helping to make them possible.
• We love bringing people to, and showing them, how beautiful BC is with our local retreats. Tours have also expanded to Europe.
• The Knit City Emerging Makers program was first launched in Calgary, and it will be for the first time in Vancouver in 2025.
• We might just have to get a little bit creative with the venue for Knit City Vancouver. It's exciting to see how the show is going to evolve.
• There are always new people coming in who are super interested in fibre arts.
• We love seeing the different demographics come in, including more men and younger people.

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In this episode of the SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Britt Garber, a designer and advocate in the crochet community. They discuss Britt's journey into crochet, her design philosophy, the importance of community, and her initiatives like the Makers of Color Collective. Britt shares her experiences with Tunisian crochet, the challenges of designing patterns, and her commitment to inclusivity in the craft. The conversation highlights the significance of representation and support within the crafting community, as well as Britt's future plans for teaching and expanding her reach.

Takeaways

• Britt started crocheting in 2015 and founded the Makers of Color Collective in 2019.
• She is self-taught and initially struggled with crochet before finding her passion.
• Britt emphasizes the importance of designing patterns that she enjoys making.
• Tunisian crochet is gaining popularity and offers a unique blend of knitting and crocheting techniques.
• Britt created a Discord community to foster support and connection among crocheters.
• The Makers of Color Collective aims to uplift and support makers of colour in the crafting industry.
• Britt believes in providing opportunities for others and sharing resources within the community.
• She values authenticity and encourages others to embrace their identities in crafting.
• Britt is focused on teaching and expanding her reach in the crochet community.
• She plans to continue creating patterns and supporting other designers.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Evie Schwartz, a multifaceted fibre artist whose path has taken her from accidental yarn making to intentional spinning and weaving. They talk about Evie’s creative evolution, her love for historical textiles, and the role of community in the fibre arts. The conversation also explores time management, the importance of preserving textile history, and how to inspire the next generation to engage with craft. Evie shares updates on her current projects, including her participation in the Tour de Fleece, and reflects on the value of approaching textile work with intention.

Takeaways

• Evie's journey in fibre arts began with crochet at age six.
• She transitioned from teaching to focusing on spinning and weaving.
• Evie's YouTube channel showcases her passion for historical textiles.
• Community engagement is vital for learning and sharing in fibre arts.
• Time management is crucial for balancing multiple crafting projects.
• Textile history is an important narrative that needs to be shared.
• Evie encourages teaching kids about the origins of their clothing.
• Tour de Fleece fosters community and creativity among spinners.
• Intentionality in choosing materials affects the final fabric outcome.
• Evie believes in the importance of diverse storytelling in fibre arts.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia Lo speaks with Star Athena, a multicraftual creative and founder of the Tour de Fleece. They explore Star’s journey through the fibre arts, her experiences across different crafts, and how the Tour de Fleece grew from a small idea into a global community. Star reflects on her creative path, the impact of her autism diagnosis, and the healing nature of making. Their conversation highlights the value of community, personal growth, and the joy that comes from crafting.

Takeaways

• Star Athena's journey in fibre arts began at a young age.
• She has a diverse background in various crafts, including knitting, spinning, and crochet.
• The Tour de Fleece was inspired by her love for cycling and spinning.
• The event started small but grew into a global community of spinners.
• Star emphasizes the importance of creativity without strict rules or guidelines.
• She has experienced burnout in her crafting journey but continues to explore new avenues.
• Star's diagnosis of autism at 45 has changed her perspective on creativity.
• Creative pursuits are seen as a form of meditation and healing for Star.
• The impact of the Tour de Fleece on the crafting community is profound and lasting.
• Star values her identity beyond the Tour de Fleece, focusing on personal growth and creativity.

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In this episode of the SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Victor and Amber Mazza, founders of Gealach Fola Acres, about their transition from military service to becoming first-generation farmers and textile producers. They share their experiences in the Navy, their deep passion for fibre arts, and the challenges they face within the local textile industry. The conversation touches on their vision for the farm and mill, including their plans for fibre production and building community through the creation of a local tartan. They also talk about acquiring and restoring mill equipment, emphasizing sustainability and the importance of supporting local farmers.

Takeaways:

• Victor and Amber are first-generation farmers who founded Gealach Fola Acres in 2022.
• They met while serving in the US Navy in Japan.
• Amber has a long-standing passion for textiles, starting with crochet at a young age.
• Victor has always dreamed of a self-sufficient homestead for fibre and food.
• The couple aims to process local wool and bast fibres at their mill.
• They are addressing the challenges faced by small farmers in the local textile industry.
• The acquisition of mill equipment was a significant milestone for their business.
• They designed a community tartan to unify the local heritage and families.
• Their farm spans 81 acres, mostly wooded, with plans for fibre trials and production.
• They actively engage with the community through events and social media.

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In this week’s episode, Felicia chats with Lisa Graves, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Weft Magazine. Together, they talk about how the magazine began, how it's structured, and what kinds of topics readers can look forward to. They also dive into the value of weaving education, both in-person and online, and what makes Kawartha Weaving studio such a special place to learn. Their discussion touches on the challenges and rewards of teaching weaving, the rich content featured in Weft Magazine, and the vibrant community that surrounds the craft.

Felicia and Lisa also explore how weaving education is evolving. They talk about the importance of mentorship and community, as well as the role technology and social media play in supporting the craft. From the benefits of online learning to the continued relevance of guilds, their conversation highlights the many ways weavers can learn, grow, and connect, always with an emphasis on sharing knowledge and building community along the way.

Please join us for this inspirational conversation around craft, learning and community.  

Takeaways

• Lisa Graves is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Weft Magazine.
• Weft Magazine aims to provide accessible knowledge about weaving.
• The magazine is structured around specific themes each issue.
• Future issues will explore topics like warp, drape, and sustainability.
• Kawartha Weaving offers a unique retreat-like learning experience.
• Lisa emphasizes the importance of in-person learning for weaving.
• Online teaching has opened doors for students unable to attend in person.
• The community aspect of weaving is vital for education and support.
• Weaving education should empower students to work independently.
• Lisa's studio is designed to create a welcoming and inspiring environment. Ergonomics and technique are crucial in crafting.
• Online workshops can enhance learning experiences.
• Structured learning formats improve student retention.
• Guilds play a vital role in preserving weaving skills.
• Mentorship is essential for passing on knowledge.
• Social media can inspire new weavers.
• Sharing details about projects helps others learn.
• Community support is key to sustaining interest in weaving.
• Technology can bridge gaps in traditional learning.
• Encouraging others to teach fosters a vibrant craft community.

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In this week's episode, we are excited to welcome Celeste Angello, known as the Cranky Spinster, about her journey into the world of circular sock knitting machines (CSM). They discuss the importance of community, the process of restoring antique machines, and tips for beginners looking to get started in sock knitting. 

Celeste shares her experiences with crank-ins, the innovations in the CSM world, and the creative possibilities that come with using these machines. The conversation highlights the rich history of sock knitting and the excitement of exploring new techniques and ideas within the craft.

Takeaways:

• Celeste identifies as a maker, encompassing various crafts.
• Crank-ins are essential for learning and community building.
• The best sock machine is one that works, regardless of age.
• Budget and intended use are key factors in choosing a sock machine.
• Beginners should focus on mastering the basics of sock knitting.
• The online community for sock knitting is vast and varied.
• Innovations in sock knitting include 3D printed machines and accessories.
• Creativity in sock knitting is limited only by imagination.
• Restoration of antique machines can be a rewarding process.
• Celeste shares her journey and encourages others to explore the craft.