Wendy Davis of the Tidal Zone Studio graciously invited us into her world of making Gillnet Rugs which are unique to Sointula. They are "fur like" to the touch yet extremely durable. The colors vary depending on the age of the net and how long it was used.
In 1952 Helmi Pakkalen immigrated to Sointula from Finland and noticed the many discarded fishing nets lying about. Net regulations and fibers change making the nets obsolete. She knew there had to be a use for them and thus Sointula Gillnet Rugs were invented. She was before her time as far as "Recycling".
The nets are washed to remove salt and debris and then cut into manageable lengths.
They are then cut into lines with tails every 5 to 6 inches.
The thread is then layered into empty coffee cans with a hole cut into the lid. The individual "coffee can bobbins" can then be easily managed when the strands are crocheted into the rug.
The leftover ends are rolled into balls to be used for other projects such as these beautiful scarves.
They are then cut into lines with tails every 5 to 6 inches.
The thread is then layered into empty coffee cans with a hole cut into the lid. The individual "coffee can bobbins" can then be easily managed when the strands are crocheted into the rug.
The leftover ends are rolled into balls to be used for other projects such as these beautiful scarves.
Depending on the desired density 4 to 5 strands are crocheted together.
The underside shows the pattern of increases at each corner
.
The end product is a beautiful, soft, durable rug that will last many lifetimes!
Wendy from "The Tidal Zone Gallery" can be contacted at: wendavis@telus.net
The underside shows the pattern of increases at each corner
.
The end product is a beautiful, soft, durable rug that will last many lifetimes!
Wendy from "The Tidal Zone Gallery" can be contacted at: wendavis@telus.net
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