An open letter ~

I never intended to post anything to the group like this, but I really need to say something to the whole Whatcom Weavers Guild.

Last Wednesday evening’s program felt iffy to me back in the planning stages.  Iffy only because I wasn’t sure if there was going to be enough to see and touch.  My attempts to secure the video about the Barber Hand Weaving business from the Museum didn’t pan out.  I was concerned….but then, Marcia C. called and e-mailed me saying that she had spoken to an old friend who was employed by the Barbers for years.  When she told me the person’s name, I said, “I think I know her.”  Sure enough, I did. 

That’s how dear Mary Ellen became an important part of Wednesday evening. 

I, or should I say WE, are indebted to her for sharing such wonderful artifacts.  As the trusted guardian, she has preserved a treasure trove of history from such a successful weaving business located right here in Whatcom County.  Thank you Mary Ellen.

As for all the rest of you guild members, thank you for your active participation.  I left that evening thrilled that the meeting became an open forum for all.  Thank you to the folks who brought items to share, and thank you for simply filling the room with so much energy.

It was way cool! ~ Julie

Here are some images of garment from Barber Hand Weaving.

Amineko (the sleepless kitten in Seattle) ~

Inspired by Kim Werker’s guild program this fall, guild member Nadine went on an adventure to find a special Amigurumi book Kim brought to the meeting. Amazingly, Nadine found more than the book ~ she found a wonderful bookstore and adventure ~ read below.

Worth a Special Trip or Detour in Seattle:

Kinokuniya Books, at the Uwajimaya Center, in Seattle's International District/Chinatown.

Kinokuniya is Japan's largest bookstore: we are lucky to have one in Seattle. (There are only a few in the U.S.: Los Angeles, Portland, and New York City, as well as one in Vancouver, BC.) This outpost is in Seattle's Uwajimaya Center, at 600 Fifth Avenue South, in the International District. It's open daily.

Park in the Uwajimaya lot (parking validated for up to two hours: don't forget your receipt, the validation is a terrific deal), then stroll in through U's fab grocery store, and towards the back you'll enter a court with Kinokuniya to your right. The place is packed with Japanese books--including a fiber/craft/sewing section that will knock you out--as well as Japanese stationery, and an enormous and inspiring collection of Japanese magazines. Ask the staff to direct you to the fiber/craft section. I guarantee that you will go crazy.

When you are exhausted, head to Beard Papa's in the courtyard for Asian-style cream puffs (try green-tea flavor), or do what I always do: go to Jade Garden, several walkable blocks away (704 South King Street, between S. Seventh Avenue and S. Canton Alley) for dim sum. There are also many, many food vendors in Uwajimaya. Feel free to contact me if you would like additional information. --Nadine, WWG member