Summer Alexander

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Gamp & Twill Hand Towels

Hand Towels

Mixed Wool Shawl

On a recent trip to North Carolina I had the opportunity to stop by Penland School of Craft in Bakersville. I am delighted by the prevalence of craft schools in this region of the country. Penland is nestled on a high ridge many miles off the state road. We decided to follow a wooden sign on the Penland property that stated nothing more than, “Bringle Gallery.” We drove the gravel road to its end and found a low wooden home rising above beds of native plants. Inside we met Edwina Bringle. Although Edwina is in her 80s she is sharp, funny and still very involved in her craft. We chatted about weaving, woodworking, photography, and ceramics in our brief time together. Her kindness and generosity of spirit has become something I have come to know in the weaving community. I was thrilled by this chance encounter.

My journey to weaving was one of following an uncertain path in hope of discovery. I am fortunate to have the time and space that have allowed my weaving practice to evolve. I work in a studio above my husband’s woodshop outside of Flint Hill on the property where I grew up. I work with cotton, wool, and alpaca on a 40” 8-shaft Norwood floor loom. My hope in weaving has always been to weave larger textiles like blankets and rugs. Beginning with smaller objects has allowed for mastery of technique with less demand placed on material. Study of weave structure has become a constant fascination for me. You will find both the honoring of traditional patterns and the manipulation of them in my handwork. In the spirit of discovery I am excited to showcase my looms, my work, and have a chat, wherever it leads. . .