This morning I marvel at the universality of symbols, and at the enduring appeal of geometric designs. When I studied reams of Frida Hansen’s weaving
Southward Returns to Norway for Good
There was an amazing official announcement today from the Stavanger Kunstmuseum. Frida Hansen’s monumental tapestry, Sørover [Southward], was purchased by the Christen Sveaas’ Kunststiftelse (Christen
Another Parrot in the Woven Flock
Anne Grete Krogstad was in my workshop this September at the Norsk Folkemuseum in Oslo. I had already communicated with Anne Grete, because she told
A Transparent Tapestry Trillium
Cindy Owen returned to Chicago after taking my workshop in Milwaukee in November and finished up her trillium beautifully. This is what I wrote about
Some Inspiration to Weave Krokbragd
I haven’t had a krokbragd weaving on my loom for a long time now, but I know it will happen again. So I examine each
Time Travel
This photo is in the archive of the Oslo City Museum. It transports us to Frida Hansen’s weaving studio, Norsk Aaklæde- og Billedtæppe-Væveri, probably in
Frida Hansen Workshop in Milwaukee
My workshop for Wisconsin Handweavers was held at Mount Carmel Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, in the most amazing teaching space I’ve encountered. Lots of light,
Norse-American Centennial Film (But No Glimpse of Southward)
This summer, 122 years after Berthea Aske Bergh brought the tapestry to New York, Southward traveled back to Norway as part of From the Roots:
A Stash of Frida Hansen Sketches, Unrolled to Admire
What a difference a year makes. In August, 2024, I visited Bestumhus, the residence and studio built for Frida Hansen in 1903. I was the
Skillbragd from Orkdal
Finn.no is an online shopping site, sort of the eBay of Norway. Each day I enjoy seeing a number of weavings in the categories I
Boat and Church Textiles in the Bergen City Archives
At the beginning of my Norway/Sweden trip, Ingebjørg Monsen and I visited the Byarkivet [Bergen City Archives]. My holy grail is finding transparent tapestry cartoons
A Royal Visit to my Lecture in Oslo
I taught my eighth Frida Hansen transparent tapestry workshop at the Norsk Folkemuseum in Oslo, Norway, this weekend, my first workshop outside the U.S. It
More Sampling with a Water Lily Motif
I was happy with my recent water lily tapestry on an indigo ikat-dyed warp. Now I am designing a larger piece with water lilies, patterned
A Look Back at Frida Hansen Workshops — And On to Oslo!
I will be teaching my eighth workshop in Frida Hansen’s transparent tapestry technique in September. In a “returning to the mother ship” way, it will
A New Exhibit at Vesterheim: The Past/Present/Future of Folk Art
July 11, 2025 – January 11, 2026Vesterheim Norwegian-American MuseumDecorah, Iowa My reviews of Vesterheim folk art exhibits over the years often include a complaint —
One More Unfinished Project Out of the Closet
There were two positive aspects of my mother’s recent short stay in the hospital. She is doing very well after excellent care, and I managed
Woven Water Lilies
I recently finished a transparent tapestry, Minnesota Water Lilies. They came to woven life fairly serendipitously. I walk early around Lake of the Isles and
A Treasure Trove of Lila Nelson Weavings
A major collector of Scandinavian objects who lived in a Southern Minnesota town died recently, and Suzanne Kramer, an antique dealer specializing in Scandinavian antiques
You Should Enter your Weaving in the Minnesota State Fair
This is a special message to my Minnesota handweaver friends. I’ve always been a proponent of entering your work in the State Fair. You can
Musing on the Yarn in Frida Hansen’s Transparent Tapestries
I am on the hunt for wonderful warp to weave wool transparent tapestries using Frida Hansen’s technique. This post is in part to share with
A New Transparent Tapestry Sample
I finished a sample on my small copper pipe loom to test out a different warp yarn and finishing techniques. It is a peony inspired
A Five-Star Day with Väv Magasin
The coach yelled, “Is it a one star day?” My four-year-old granddaughter Eleanor sat on the curb after her beloved tennis class ended. He built
The Eagle Tapestry is Steamed and Ready for Delivery to Vesterheim
My just-completed eagle tapestry will be part of the upcoming Past/Present/Future of Folk Art exhibit at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, from July 11,
Angie Parker’s Krokbragd book
I have loved Angie Parker‘s work for years. Every time she shows a new krokbragd project in her Facebook or Instagram feed, my reaction is
Another Tapestry by Sofie Knagenhjelm
I told my husband once that I am constantly amazed at the pieces of my tapestry research that just seem to fall in my lap
Weaving Notes: Ireland
Just a week ago my husband and I returned from a magical one-week trip to Dublin, without a lick of rain. Many weavers know that
Another Peony in the Bouquet of Frida Hansen Workshop Flowers
Wendy Gilmore sent a photo of her completed Frida Hansen peony, begun at my recent workshop for the Conference of California Handweavers (CNCH). I was
A Visit to Vesterheim and a Special Norwegian-American Tapestry and Tennis Connection
The Valley Grove Tapestries were displayed in the beautiful Commons Gallery at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum last month. I was eager to see them in that
And now the Eagle is OFF my Loom
I’ve been weaving a large bird for a long time. Life can be full of unplanned events, sometimes getting in the way of weaving. For
A California Workshop at the Conference of Northern California Handweavers
I loved seeing deer outside the window of my classroom in my just-completed workshop for CNCH, the Conference of Northern California Handweavers, at Asilomar Conference
Vibrant Tradition: Scandinavian Weaving in the Midwest had a Great Run
Members of our Scandinavian Weavers Study Group considered our exhibit at Norway House as thirty years in the making, decades of study, collaboration and friendship.
Hanging a Transparent Tapestry: Context is Everything
The gospel of Frida Hansen is spreading around the country. I taught a Frida Hansen transparent tapestry workshop for the Boston Weavers Guild in March,
A Transparent Swan is Swimming in a New Sample
I look forward to teaching a workshop in Frida Hansen’s transparent tapestry for the Boston Weavers Guild next week. Today I’m adding a new small
Frida Hansen’s “Nellik og Hane” Transparency [Cloves and Rooster]
Sometimes I am so distracted by the beauty of the shapes and colors in a transparent tapestry that I don’t fully register the image. With
How did Frida Hansen Invent her Wool Transparent Tapestry Technique?
I have an idea about how Frida Hansen came up with her wool open warp transparency technique. It occurred to me on a visit in
A Norwegian Transparent Tapestry Design with a California Connection
When I learned of a large wool transparent tapestry for sale at auction in the U.S. recently, the pattern seemed familiar. It was woven in
Solving a Family Mystery During my Talk at the American Swedish Institute
I gave a talk during the “Nordic Folkway Presentations” portion of the Midwinter Folk Fest at the American Swedish Institute last weekend. It was so
Vibrant Tradition: Scandinavian Weaving in the Midwest (and some fun related activities)
Our Scandinavian Weavers Study Group of the Weavers Guild of Minnesota is celebrating the “vibrant tradition” of our group of 30 years, and of Scandinavian
A Transparent Tapestry by Sofie Knagenhjelm
An appraiser acquaintance tipped me off to a transparent tapestry at auction this week. It’s beautiful, and I recognized the Norwegian designer. It’s a direct
“What is Norwegian Weaving?” An Online Lecture Coming Up
Next week I will present a virtual lecture on “What is Norwegian Weaving?” through the Weavers Guild of Minnesota. What is Norwegian Weaving?Wednesday, January 8:
Christmas Roses, Skillbragd, and Crown Princess Mette Marit
I followed Jon Fredrik Skauge’s series of juleroser [Christmas roses] posts throughout Advent. He highlighted roses in many beautiful handcrafted forms through his Facebook feed.
Why is an Eagle on my Loom?
Frida Hansen often wove birds in her wool open warp transparencies. My new transparent tapestry will feature a bird, a full-size standing eagle. (I measured.)
My Potato Tapestry Will Be Shown at the Smithsonian: My Father Would Be So Happy!
Does everything happen for a reason? Those of you who are familiar with the Minnesota State Fair might know that the Fine Arts Competition is
Who Wove this Tapestry Image by Erik Harry Johannessen?
Here is a shout-out to tapestry weaver friends — especially those from Norway. My friend purchased this tapestry, woven after an image by Erik Harry
Testing Handspun Warp in Frida Hansen’s Open Warp Tapestry Technique
Part of the beauty of the warp used in Frida Hansen’s transparencies was due to the natural variation of yarn that was woven from dyed
A Titti Karsten Transparency Discovery
Two months after my trip to Norway, I still haven’t fully processed and examined all my notes and photos. I remain amazed at the mystery
Norwegian Textile Letter
I was thrilled to hit PUBLISH for the Norwegian Textile Letter issue on Halloween; I was determined to get out the October issue out before
Gretchen Carew — Not an Obituary, A Celebration
A huge hole is left in my heart with the death of Gretchen Wurden Carew, on October 28, at age 88. She died from complications
My Tapestries Looked Old (That’s a Good Thing)
At the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church gallery talk this week, I loved a comment made by my weaver friend Gerry Retzlaff. She came to
Priscilla Lynch Wove Three Small Transparent Tapestries
It’s not so amazing that a student from one of my Frida Hansen transparent tapestry workshops might like the technique so much that they create
Mette Hammer’s Hummingbird is now Fully Hovering
Mette Hammer sent a photo of her completed hummingbird transparent tapestry, completed after the workshop in Decorah in September. What beautiful, vibrant colors. You can
A Student from my First Vesterheim Transparency Workshop Turns in Extra Credit
Deborah Thomas traveled from Arkansas to attend the first workshop I taught in Frida Hansen’s wool open warp transparency technique, at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in
A New Weaving Exhibit
Sacred Textiles: A Celebration of Faith, Art, and HeritageWeaving by Robbie LaFleur and Phyllis WaggonerHennepin Avenue United Methodist Church511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403September 26-November
An Anniversary Transparent Tapestry Workshop at Vesterheim Folk Art School
Students cancelled at the last minute for health reasons for my September Frida Hansen transparent tapestry workshop in September. I was sad about that, but
It’s Apple Season – in Tapestry, Too
I am starting a new transparent tapestry workshop at Vesterheim Folk Art School tomorrow, and have another student tapestry from last year’s Vesterheim workshop to
An Anniversary Frida Hansen Transparency Class (with Unexpected Openings)
This week I am teaching a Frida Hansen wool open warp transparency workshop at Vesterheim Folk Art School in Decorah, Iowa, one year after my
An Archer Takes Aim in a Transparent Tapestry by Marie Karsten
During my research trip to Norway I found myself longing for a yoga class in the middle of the day, to calm my swirling thoughts
Frida Hansen’s Juni [June] at the KODE Museum in Bergen
I’ll bet you’d like to see some excellent Frida Hansen birds, woven amidst beautiful June flowers. Juni, Frida Hansen’s 1918 transparent tapestry, is at the
A Swedish Candy Store Visit Leads to a Wonderful Studio Visit
After an intense week of meetings and research in Oslo, I expected a textile-study-free weekend, relaxing at my friends Arve and Inger’s cabin in Sweden.
A Rutevev with Lilies
A few weeks ago I saw an appealing weaving on the Norwegian auction site, Finn.no. Rows of flowers were woven in rutevev (geometric square weave).
The Warblers Tapestry will be at the Minnesota State Fair
My most recent wool transparent tapestry, Nest (Golden-Winged Warblers are Happy in their Minnesota Habitat), will be on display at the Minnesota State Fair. I
Why are Transparent Tapestry Designers’ Names Lost to History?
There is a renaissance of interest in the work of Frida Hansen in Norway. My particular research passion is the open warp transparent tapestry technique
A Rose for Olympic Champions
Though I may dream of winning an Olympic medal in women’s gymnastics — floor exercise! — I spent the first few days of Paris coverage
A Frida Hansen Southward Discovery in an Attic
Readers of this blog know about my fascination with Frida Hansen’s monumental tapestry, Sørover [Southward], and the mystery of its disappearance and rediscovery. The articles
More Philadelphia Flowers
Getting an email and photos from one of my Frida Hansen transparency workshop students is a gift! Lori Falbo sent a photo of her finished
Julie (Jullik) Gulbrandsen – Parrots Galore
I am very interested in Frida Hansen as a mentor and source of inspiration to her followers — other designers of transparent tapestries. Several of
A Mention from the Crown Princess!
On Friday, April 12, a very special weaving symposium was held under the auspices of Her Royal Majesty Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Samlede Tråder [Unifying Threads].
Transparencies Turn Up
Now that I am deep into my Frida Hansen transparent tapestry research, and many of my weaving friends are aware of the technique, new clues
Frida Hansen Talks Available Online
This spring I gave a talk on Frida Hansen and her transparent tapestry technique for the Damascus Fiber Arts School as part of their Tapestry
Upcoming Book on Frida Hansen and her Wool Open Warp Transparency Technique
I’ve devised a beautiful challenge for myself – I’m writing a book with the working title, The Transparent Tapestries of Frida Hansen and her Followers:
Adding a Small Tapestry to the Fate, Destiny and Self-Determination Exhibit
For several years I’ve intended to add a small piece to Line Dufour’s project: Fate, Destiny and Self-Determination, in which contributed small weavings become part
Philadelphia – City of Brotherly (and Weaverly) Love
I taught a Frida Hansen Open Warp Transparency workshop in Philadelphia from May 10-12. I had a super group of enthused and diligent students. Can
Frida Hansen – Transatlantic Ties
As I study the wool open warp transparencies of Frida Hansen, I remain enchanted with her beautiful designs and technique. It’s no wonder that many
Lovebirds Embracing in Frida Hansen’s Sommernattsdrøm
I just finished a wool open warp transparent tapestry workshop for the Philadelphia Guild of Handweavers. I will post more soon about the experiments of
Daisies and Dandelions: Frida Hansen Dazzles with Both
I wrote earlier about finally understanding why Frida Hansen’s daisy design, Margariter, was so gorgeous and important. That’s the problem with only seeing reproductions in
Pioneer Public TV Films about Weavers
Postcards is a long-running series of short documentaries from Pioneer Public TV in southern Minnesota, featuring the art, history and cultural heritage of western Minnesota
From 1180 to 2024 – Norwegian Weavers are Still Devoted to the Baldishol Tapestry
A Norwegian weaver, Marie Kvistad Eikum, recently posted to the Billedvev [Norwegian tapestry] Facebook group that she is moving and needed to downsize her extensive
A Transparent Tapestry with Mysteries
Updated with more research from the owner, 4/13/2024 A California artist, Robin Weinert, sent me a photo of a wool transparent tapestry woven by his
Transparent Tapestry Workshop at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota
I was thinking back on my recent workshop at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota, such a fun time. Heather Ramseth definitely won the “I came
One Warbler — Progress on the Tapestry Despite Unweaving
Weaving halted for a while on the golden-winged warbler tapestry; I merely looked at the loom from my desk while finishing up the new issue
Upcoming Speaking Engagement with Nearly Wild Weaving
Nearly Wild Weaving – In Conversation I feel honored to be part of a fabulous interview series sponsored by Nearly Wild Weaving in England, “Tapestry:
Fixing my Blomqvist Transparent Tapestry
I purchased a wool transparent tapestry in Frida Hansen’s technique from the Norwegian Blomqvist auction site. Read more: “A Merry Christmas Transparency for Me” and
The Scandinavian Weavers Group Project: Kukkoladräl
Since I am consumed by tapestry these days and no longer have a large floor loom, I am so appreciative of the opportunities to weave
Frida Hansen Inspiration and Student Samples
In my weaving workshops on Frida Hansen’s wool open warp transparent tapestry technique, students choose their own cartoons to weave a sample. Some arrive with
Examining my Transparent Tapestry from Blomqvist
I wrote earlier about purchasing a transparent tapestry in Frida Hansen’s wool open warp tapestry technique through the Norwegian Blomqvist auction site. Read “A Merry
Ingrid Falnes Ellingsen Admired Frida Hansen’s Technique and Image
I met several local weavers when I was in Stavanger in 2019 with a fellowship from the American-Scandinavian Foundation, including Marit Gilje-Jaatun. She told me
Who Can Resist Frida Hansen’s Black Roses?
I love seeing how the work of Frida Hansen and others who have woven in her transparent tapestry technique inspire students in my workshops. Often,
Starting a Tapestry: It Takes a While to Feel Confident
I am more than a third of the way on my warbler tapestry. With every new tapestry, even if I feel confident in the design
You Could Study Frida Hansen’s Transparent Tapestry Technique in Philadelphia
(Or Minneapolis or Decorah, Iowa…) The Philadelphia Guild of Handweavers is offering my workshop, Frida Hansen’s Open Warp Transparent Tapestry Technique, on May 9-12, 2024.
Some Transparent Tapestries at Auction; A Close Examination
The Norwegian Blomqvist auction site describes these portiers recently up for sale as a “Composition of Flowers and Grapes” by an unknown artist. (full record)
Newspaper Articles on Environmental Problems and a Couple of Older Tapestries
Last week the Minneapolis Star Tribune wrote about the never-solved mystery of deformed frogs found in a lake in southern Minnesota. The saga of schoolchildren
Upcoming Workshop in Frida Hansen’s Wool Transparency Technique
I’m looking forward to my next weaving workshop in Frida Hansen’s wool open warp transparency technique, only ten minutes away at the Weavers Guild of
New Year, New Warp: A Celebration of the Golden-Winged Warbler
The ‘getting going” portion of my new project is the most difficult. Nest, a transparent tapestry that has been planned in my head for many
Angels in the Garden of Paradise: The Mystery is not yet Solved
I first wrote about a pair of transparent tapestries owned in Denmark on this blog more than a year ago (“Do You Recognize these Transparent
A Merry Christmas Transparency for Me
I’m not only interested in Frida Hansen and her wool open warp transparent tapestries, but also in transparencies made by her followers. Hansen was a
Frida Hansen’s Southward — How Long Did it Take to Weave the Tapestry?
I discovered a cache of digitized Norwegian-American newspapers available via the Nasjonalbiblioteket, the Norwegian National Library. I took time out from a new tapestry mystery
Bearskin Muff
It’s December, a good time to think about rich experiences of the past year and to get rid of piles of paper. One page of
Bunads, Online and in my House
In putting together a “Nordic News and Notes” column for the Norwegian Textile Letter, I noticed that a new textile-related webinar was up on the
Serendipitous Swedish Weaving Purchase
With the year almost finished, I am going back to complete some posts languishing in the drafts folder during my busy fall. This is a
From Domestic to Decorative: The Evolution of Nordic Weaving
Our Scandinavian Weavers Study Group of the Weavers Guild of Minnesota has a show up at Red Wing Arts Depot Gallery in the beautiful southern Minnesota town of Red
Report from the San Diego Workshop: Milky Way Inspiration
Frida Hansen’s work can inspire in so many ways – technique, bold color use, images, and inventiveness, to name a few. When Gail Thompson attended
Report from the Vesterheim Workshop: Green Roses Complete
The first two sessions of my Frida Hansen wool open warp transparent tapestry workshops were so surprising, in a marvelous way. I offered several designs
But Wait – There’s so Much I didn’t Say
I was an invited speaker for the London Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers today; sadly, only via zoom. It would have been fun to
Frida Hansen Workshop in San Diego: Part Two
The Frida Hansen transparency workshop for the San Diego Creative Weavers’ Guild was two and a half days long, beginning on Saturday afternoon. During those
Frida Hansen Workshop in San Diego: Part One
Our enthusiastic workshop students met in the Zuest Family Spinners Cottage at the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum – motto: In rust we trust.
October issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter
I was so relieved to hit the WordPress “publish” button yesterday to send out the new issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter. I felt tangled
Vesterheim Online Auction — with some Great Textiles
I received a Google alert today; my name appeared in the (Mason City, Iowa) Globe Gazette; the linen table runner I donated to Vesterheim Norwegian-American
Seeing my Old Friend, Frida Hansen’s Southward Tapestry
Today I will have the great fun of giving a lecture on Frida Hansen’s tapestry, Sørover [Southward], to a LIVE audience at Peter Pap Oriental
Beautiful Fall in New England and a Great Chance to See Frida Hansen’s Southward Tapestry
East Coast friends! Please join me for a wonderful opportunity to view Frida Hansen’s monumental 1903 tapestry, Sørover [Southward], at Peter Pap Oriental Rugs in
Frida Hansen Class in Decorah – Part Two
Half of the student projects in my Frida Hansen wool transparent tapestry class were highlighted in this post. Here’s what else was happening around the
Finding Woven Fish
As the students in my Frida Hansen wool open warp transparency workshop were diligently weaving, I often walked around with photos to illustrate various aspects
Frida Hansen Class in Decorah – Part One
Those who follow my work know I am a fan of Frida Hansen’s wool open warp transparent tapestries. I spent time carefully examining pieces made
Magic Time in Decorah – And a Great First Frida Hansen Transparency Class
Impact Coffee Trivia Night in Decorah, Iowa, was especially festive in honor of Gay Pride Week. A substantial crowd sat on lawn chairs, draped in
Frida’s Farmer’s Roses on the Baby Wolf
Frida Hansen wove her wool open warp transparent tapestries on a vertical loom. When I was preparing a class on the technique, a prospective student
Math and Flowers and the Frida Hansen Wool Transparency Technique: An Experiment
A Baby Wolf floor loom occupied the end of our dining room this summer. I borrowed it to experiment weaving a small Frida Hansen wool
I Didn’t Recognize Frida Hansen’s Rose Tree Transparency
I’ve been working on my Frida Hansen passion project and preparing for my workshop next week at Vesterheim Folk School. It’s not easy bringing order
The Baldishol Tapestry Appreciated Anew
The high point of my visit to the new Nasjonalmuseet in Oslo in June was viewing an object I know well, the Baldisholteppet, a Norwegian
Swedish Weaving from Blekinge
A Minnesota woman named Karen Davis sent me a photo a while back, wondering whether I could tell her anything about a tapestry pillow-top inherited
From Domestic to Decorative: An Upcoming Show Sponsored by Red Wing Arts
Save the Date! Our Scandinavian Weavers Study Group of the Weavers Guild of Minnesota has an upcoming show at the Depot Gallery in the beautiful
Finding Frida Hansen in the Nasjonalmuseet Archives
I contacted the Nasjonalmuseet in Oslo before my trip to Norway and Sweden in June. I wanted to see the extent of Frida Hansen materials they have
Final Swedish Days
When I finished my week-long weaving adventure at Sätergläntan in June, I had no idea what fun and adventure I would pack into a whirlwind,
A Colorful Rug: Sätergläntan Summer
I finished the ends of my rug woven at Sätergläntan recently. That meant it was time to take a photo on my neighbor’s red porch.
Amazing Daisies (Frida Hansen’s Margariter)
Almost everyone has had the experience of seeing an art work in person and having an “aha” moment. Oh, that’s why it is a big
A Week at Sätergläntan is Almost Finished
I had a few reasons for taking this weaving course at Sätergläntan. I’ve heard about the school for years, and thought it might be fun
The Munch Museum is known as MUNCH
I often write blog posts to document events and projects for myself, and my current Scandinavian trip is very memory-worthy! I had just a few
The Kåre Mikkelsen Jonsborg Tapestry was Not a Mystery
People with purchased or inherited tapestries of likely Norwegian origin keep finding me and asking if I know anything about their unidentified objects. Sometimes I
Norway and Sweden Adventures Await
I leave for Norway on Saturday! I will stay with my friend from weaving school (Valdres Husflidsskole), Inger Berit Myhre, to begin. She lives in
The Pre-Pandemic Monksbelt
I recently ran across some random woven remnants and samples in a box. I liked the colorful, complex monksbelt pattern of the piece on top.
Frida Hansen Fall Workshop
I’m teaching my first workshop in Frida Hansen’s wool open warp transparency technique in September. I’m weaving small samples now.
Together Again, a Post-Pandemic Rug
I finished my rug in doublebinding, part of a group warp with the Rag Rug Study Group at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota. (See also,
Rag Rug Weaving versus Tapestry: the Hare and the Tortoise
Musing on all the reasons why weaving a rag rug is so much fun
Troll Woman Tapestry Update
The mystery of the designer of the Norwegian tapestry of St. Olav and the Troll Woman remains unsolved.
The Norwegian Textile Letter, the Unfortunate Demise of a Chicken, and a Frida Hansen Tapestry Tale
The last days before I hit “publish” on an issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter feel like a blur of details. Which articles have the
The Scandinavian Design Show in Milwaukee (With a Frida Hansen Link)
I’m excited for a road trip to Milwaukee next week, for the opening of the blockbuster exhibit at the Milwaukee Art Museum, Scandinavian Design and
The Troll Woman is Turned to Stone in this Mystery Tapestry
I recently heard from a Canadian with a wonderful tapestry. I hope there is a reader who will bring it from the category of mystery
Telemarksteppe with Friends
Our Scandinavian Weavers Study Group of the Weavers Guild of Minnesota set up a group warp in telemarksteppe technique.
It’s Not a Tapestry, Part One
Before my husband and I travel to New York City, I pay special attention to reviews of gallery and museum exhibits. I had a flicker
The Knights and Grapes Mystery Tapestry – Solved
“Czech” it out – the knights and grapes tapestry mystery is solved! When Helen Wyld from Edinburgh, Scotland purchased this beautiful tapestry, she thought it
A Mystery Tapestry, but Probably not a Norwegian One
Does anyone recognize this tapestry from 1948? It’s a mystery!
Some Pretty Wool Transparencies at Auction, and my own Transparency Nearly Done
This set of transparencies for sale by Blomqvist are quite lovely; there is less than a day left to bid. The last time I checked,
Frida’s Flowers: A Still Life. Too transparent?
Alert! This may be boring for those uninterested in tapestry design and weaving process! I’ve come to the top of the vase section in the
Pieces from the Past
I wove a piece in Vestfold, a Norwegian coverlet technique, in 2000. It was displayed at the Annual Exhibition of Weaving in the Norwegian Tradition
Frida’s Flowers and a Minnesota Butterfly
In the Frida Hansen design, Amoriner, there is a bold butterfly. The modest-colored Minnesota butterfly in my design, the Poweshiek Skipperling, has a sad story.
Frida’s Flowers: A Still Life. Dealing with Long Exposed Warps
I’ve begun to weave the piece described in my previous post, “Wool Transparency Warp Testing with Frida Hansen Flowers.” In my Frida Hansen still life,
Valley Grove Tapestries Open House DATE CHANGE
Please come for cookies and lefse and to see the Valley Grove Tapestries at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church in December. (The Open house
Frida Hansen’s transparency Technique: Experimenting with Jaggerspun Wool Warp
The day I decided to weave a small test on my pipe loom coordinated nicely with the onset of a terrible cold. I dragged my
Wool Transparency Warp Testing with Frida Hansen Flowers
The weather in Minnesota turned quickly frigid and windy. That seems like a good time to weave Frida Hansen flowers in a vase, doesn’t it?
Frida Hansen Transparency Technique–Research in Pixels and Yarn
I am deep into research on the open warp wool transparencies of Frida Hansen and her followers. At the same time I am deep into
From the Oak Savanna to the Lake: The Prairie Grove Tapestries visit Minneapolis
The Valley Grove tapestries visit Minneapolis, at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church from Nov. 20-Dec. 30, 2022. Open House: 1-4 on Tuesday, December 13. Gallery talk at 3.
Frida Hansen’s Wool Transparency Technique and the Search for the Perfect Warp
Since I traveled to Norway on a fellowship from the Scandinavian-American Foundation in 2019, I have learned much about Frida Hansen’s open warp wool transparency
Do you Recognize these Transparent Tapestry Designs?
I was recently asked if I have information on two sets of transparent tapestries. Who designed and wove them? Where and when they were woven?
The Valley Grove Tapestries on Tour: October 2022, Duluth
The four Norwegian tapestries brought a new spark of color to the spare 1862 Valley Grove stone church this summer. Now the leaves on the
Molly Elkind’s “Weave a Minime” Workshop at Convergence
This summer was so packed with writing and weaving and family activities that important days seem distant, as other experiences layered on top. My experience
Upcoming Exhibit at the Nordic Center in Duluth
The Valley Grove tapestries arrived at my house last week, in their new custom box. There was plenty of space to add materials for the
Valley Grove Tapestries on Display
The Valley Grove Tapestries have been in the stone church this summer, and there is a great opportunity coming up to see them in their
My $7 Online Auction Find: A Skillbragd Weaving
My friend Carol Johnson loves spending time online, ferreting out special deals and spectacular Scandinavian textiles, usually from Sweden. For example, see my earlier article,
Authentic Viking Clothing in “The Northman”
Nille Glæsel from Tønsberg, Norway, has been researching Viking clothing for years, and sells patterns through her website. She posts on Facebook as NilleViking Glaesel. Because
Roses on Rugs, All Over the Place
The latest issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter includes an article about an unusual group of rose-patterned rutevev (geometric weave) tapestries found in southern Norway,
I Missed Great Exhibits in Norway this Summer
A blockbuster summer at breakneck speed: I can hardly believe how much has occurred in the past three months. And yet, I wish I had
Rutevev cat collar?
Our beloved, high-maintenance cat Buzz was diagnosed with diabetes last year. He requires twice-daily insulin shots, making our vacations more complicated. A lovely vet tech,
Bonfire Tapestry in the Common Thread Show
I love the unexpectedness of the varied works in “A Common Thread,” the 22nd annual member exhibit at the Textile Center of Minnesota, July 26-October
“Concept of a Wheat Field,” Woven at a Wonderful Workshop
Weaving a very abstract wheat field at a workshop with Fiona Hutchison.
Valley Grove Tapestries: Putting Together the Pieces of the White Church Tapestry
The final tapestry is done! see the blog post for a fun image of the meadowlark switching from photo to woven image.
Reminder of the June 25 Open House–The Last Tapestry is Done!
Valley Grove Tapestries: An Open House Saturday, June 25, 2022, 10am-2 pmValley Grove Church, 9999 155th Street E., Nerstrand, MN 55033 There will be two short
Valley Grove Tapestries: Open House, June 25, 2022
Please come for an official unveiling of the four Valley Grove tapestries on June 25 at the beautiful stone church. Valley Grove Tapestries: An Open
Valley Grove Tapestries: The First Three are Unveiled
The first three Valley Grove tapestries were hung in time for a Syttende Mai (Norwegian National Day) celebration at Valley Grove. One wall features “Oak
Valley Grove Tapestries: The First Unveiling
Would you like to see the Valley Grove tapestries in person? The first formal unveiling will be at the Syttende Mai (Norwegian National Day) celebration
Valley Grove Tapestries: The Skiing Pastor Tapestry is Complete
The Reverend Nils A Quammen was the longest serving pastor for Valley Grove Church, from 1867-1908. Born near Bergen, Norway, in 1839, he immigrated to
Watch a New Documentary: “Valley Grove: A Living Tapestry”
The Valley Grove tapestry project came at an opportune time to coordinate with another project. Minnesota filmmaker Paul Krause had been working around two years
Valley Grove Tapestries: The Woven Animals Become International Instagram Stars
Some people get lots of likes on Instagram for glamorous selfies in fancy restaurants or resorts. On my feed, the Valley Grove animals became minor
Valley Grove Tapestries: Taming the Tangles of Thread Tails
My friend Josie Owens asked if I was attending our book group last week. I said I could only listen to the discussion of Cloud
Frida Hansen’s Southward Tapestry: A Conversation Recap
It was enormously fun to be at the Winter Show at Peter Pap‘s booth to be able to talk with visitors about Frida Hansen’s newly-rediscovered
Frida Hansen’s Southward: Musing on the Border and People who Live Near the Ocean
The border of Frida Hansen’s 1903 tapestry, Southward (Sørover), has surprising details I saw only after much study and listening to the observations of others.
Sørover (Southward) at the Manhattan Winter Show
It’s April, and it’s not the Armory, but it is still the iconic “Winter Show.” When the show was postponed due to Omicron, the Armory
Tonight Frida Hansen’s Rediscovered Tapestry will be Revealed
Tonight is the opening for the Winter Show, the premier art, antiques, and design show in Manhattan, and Frida Hansen’s monumental tapestry from 1903, Sørover
“Mermaids and Swans:” Another Missing Frida Hansen Tapestry
The rediscovery of Frida Hansen’s monumental 1903 tapestry, Southward (Sørover), was an amazing find. When it is exhibited and for sale by Peter Pap at the Winter Show in
Valley Grove Tapestries: A Webinar Update
I’m going to be discussing my all-engrossing tapestry project for the Valley Grove Preservation Society in a webinar sponsored by Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum on Wednesday,
Valley Grove Tapestries: Adding Graphic Elements from Historical Norwegian Tapestries
The Valley Grove tapestries are intended to pay homage to historical Norwegian weaving from the golden age of tapestry in Norway, from about 1600-1750. So
Valley Grove Tapestries: Skiing Pastor in the Colorful Woods
The hardest part so far in the tapestry of the skiing pastor has been weaving the angles of the skis and ski poles evenly and
Missing Frida Hansen Transparencies in Hawaii
The recent discovery of Frida Hansen’s missing tapestry, Southward (Sørover),* was a marvelous find, but it wasn’t her only work that is missing in America.
The Norwegian Textile Letter Celebrates a Rediscovery
Every time I publish an issue of The Norwegian Textile Letter, I feel the content is rich and that many weavers and textile lovers will
Valley Grove Tapestries: The Skiing Pastor
While designing tapestries, I look through images of historical tapestries for inspiration, for graphic elements and use of pattern. I glanced at a card in
Valley Grove Tapestries: Ladies Aid Woman
Primary images in the second Valley Grove tapestry are the stone church and a Ladies Aid member. Women of the Valley Grove Ladies Aid raised
Valley Grove Tapestries: Tapestry 2, Chicken 1
I have almost reached the point of weaving the Ladies Aid woman in the Stone Church Tapestry. Her figure celebrates the group that was instrumental
Valley Grove Tapestries: Tapestry 2, Words
During my initial Valley Grove tapestry design phase, I thought I didn’t need to weave the words “Valley Grove,” nor did I even need to
Valley Grove Tapestries: Tapestry Two, the Stone Church
The second of the Valley Grove tapestry quartet focuses on the original stone church, built in 1862, and the women of the Ladies Aid who
Valley Grove Tapestries: Tapestry 2, Roosters and Slow Progress
Primary images in the second Valley Grove tapestry are the stone church and a Ladies Aid member. This new tapestry underway has so many details
Tapestry: Changing Concepts (a crabby review)
Tapestry: Changing Concepts at the City Art Centre, 2 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1DE, Scotland 13 Nov 2021 – 13 Mar 2022 Artists include: Jo Barker,
Cordis Exhibition Visit
What is it that everyone knows about tapestry–OK, maybe art in physical form in general? Photos are always inadequate! Thank goodness I was able to
Valley Grove Tapestries: Testing No. 1 in Place
The first Valley Grove Tapestry was displayed for a few minutes at the church, so it could be included in an upcoming documentary about the churches.
Valley Grove Tapestry: Badger, Coyote, Poland China Pig
Valley Grove tapestry border animals include a Poland China pig, a breed favored by farmers in the region, probably only cute when woven in wool.
Valley Grove Tapestries: Pocket Gopher
Next up in the Valley Grove tapestry border: a pocket gopher. Did you know they chew fiber optic cables?
Valley Grove Tapestries: The Oak Tree Centerpiece
The first Valley Grove tapestry is a celebration of the oak savanna, and I’m happy the centerpiece oak is done. I wrote about the importance
A Fugitive Frida Hansen Tapestry in Hawaii–Some More Clues
I wrote in May about a 1925 tapestry by noted Norwegian artist Frida Hansen, “The Little Mermaid.” (See the full post: “Another Missing Tapestry Mystery
Valley Grove Tapestries: A New Animal Emerges
A common exclamation by a Minnesotan driving on a country highway, walking on a trail, or glancing at a ditch by the woods at dusk
Valley Grove Tapestries: Deep into Design
The American Tapestry Alliance member discussion list chooses a new topic each month; September’s is the design process. Questions include, “What does your design process
My Bonfire Tapestry is in ENGLAND
At the end of 2020, when I was planning the cartoon for my tapestry Burn 2020, I read about an upcoming exhibition of members of
Valley Grove Tapestry #1–Finally Underway
The first of the Valley Grove Church tapestry quartet has a theme of animals and an oak tree, and it is finally underway. (The gold
Woven Wise and Foolish Virgins–the Video
This summer I was lucky to participate in a program from the Iowa Arts Council and Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum: Folk Art Education Re-Envisioned:Teaching Traditional Handcrafting
Investigating Norwegian Billedvev: an Online Tapestry Talk
Over the past few years I have come to know the billedvev (Norwegian tapestry) collection at Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum very well. In June I
A Weaving Timeline that makes me Happy
My daughter-in-law Maggie texted me two photos last night that made me happy. Here’s the story in a few photos…
Valley Grove Tapestries: Warping Woes
I am warping the Glimåkra tapestry loom for the first of the Valley Grove tapestries. Such a debacle. I wound the warp for all four
Pondering the Wise and Foolish Virgins
See a short video on the iconic Norwegian Wise and Foolish Virgin tapestries.
I Love the Idea of Weaving a Faucet
I am a friend of the Swedish artist Anna Olsson–or rather, I see her marvelous tapestries as a Facebook friend. I’d love to meet her
Valley Grove Tapestries: The Great Oak
I’m feeling a bit pressured and crazed about the one-year deadline for the Valley Grove tapestries. All four are conceptually planned. Three are close to
Valley Grove Tapestries: Adding Angels Above the Arch
Putting together designs for the Valley Grove tapestries is an enormous puzzle. I want to use every opportunity to reference something from the history of
Valley Grove Tapestries: Working on Animals
The Three Wise Men bringing gifts to the infant Jesus were popular figures in Norwegian tapestries of the late 1500s-1700s. Many of these Adoration tapestries
Valley Grove Tapestries: In the Graveyard
A graveyard flanks the Valley Grove churches, filled with interesting memorials–some very old, some quite recent. My tapestries will hang in the stone church next
Collections Connection Talk: Mixing Historical Motifs in Norwegian Tapestry
Today I highlighted many of my favorite works from Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in a “Collections Connection” talk on Zoom. It will be produced as a
Collections Connection: Billedvev (Tapestry Weaving)
I am giving a short lecture on Zoom tomorrow (June 8, 2021, 12 noon) for Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, Collections Connection: Billedvev (Tapestry Weaving). You can
Another Missing Tapestry Mystery to Solve: Frida Hansen’s Mermaid from 1925
Help find a missing Frida Hansen tapestry, “The Little Mermaid” from 1925.
Valley Grove Tapestries: What Was I Thinking, Part Two
I wrote recently about the challenge I hadn’t fully appreciated in planning this project: weaving four tapestries is not the hard part; designing four separate
Beginning the Valley Grove Tapestry Commission
The “What was I thinking?” phase This project started with excellent planning, a well-written proposal, and the excitement of acceptance. Now I’m trying to pull
Norsk Folkekunst: Kvinnearbeid
I have smart friends who haunt online auction sites and snap up rare Scandinavian weaving books and beautiful weavings. I’ve often been envious of their
Valley Grove Tapestries: A Year of Weaving Work Ahead
Last summer and fall I worked with a marvelous team at the Valley Grove Preservation Society in Nerstrand, Minnesota, near Northfield. They were interested in
To Cap the Year-Long Baldishol Celebration
The catalog from the Baldishol Exhibit at Norway House is a beautiful reality!
Zooming: Super Great, But I Miss Real People too
Yesterday I gave a zoom presentation on the life and work of Frida Hansen for the St. Louis Weavers Guild. It was fun, I think
Bonfire, Complete
I’m so happy that the bonfire tapestry is complete, the first I wove on my upright Glimakra Regina loom. During the last part of weaving
Billedvev: Watch, Read…
Watch. In the past few years I have given a lecture on historical Norwegian billedvev (tapestry, or literally “picture weaving”) several times in person, and
A mystery tapestry–Perhaps with Princesses?
Smart readers! Who can help with this mystery tapestry? Recently I was asked: I have a tapestry that is about 135cm x 105 cm which
Vestfoldsmett in the Norwegian Textile Letter
I was so happy to publish the new issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter last night, a special issue on Vestfoldsmett, a brocading or inlay
My “Textiles and Tea” Interview, and The Wise and Foolish Virgins Pop Up Again
If you haven’t been watching the weekly “Textiles & Tea” interviews done by Kathi Grupp with the Handweavers Guild of America, there is already a
Russian, Norwegian, Swedish: Mixed-Up Fun
People know my interests and send me stuff. This morning, two friends sent a link to this article: A Mystery Inscription on ‘The Scream’ That
Oh, Those Rare Hagen Looms (Not?)
I have a Norwegian Hagen tapestry loom and I often get questions about it. A couple of interesting things popped up in the past month.
Taping Photos to your Loom, and the Fire Tapestry Progress
I know I am not the only weaver who tapes photos to the loom, but I was thinking about it today as I had a
Vestfoldtepper (I Made More than I Remembered)
The upcoming issue of the Norwegian Textile Letter will focus on Norwegian Vestfoldtepper. This post is about the pieces I have woven in the technique.
Scandinavian Lectures and Classes to add to your Calendar
Norwegian Tapestry Lecture I will be presenting a zoom lecture on Norwegian billedvev, “From Virgins to Spaceships: A Visual Voyage Through Norwegian Tapestry,” through Livsreise,
Scandinavian Textile Zoom Talks
Many of you already know about the work of my good friend Annemor Sundbø, from Setesdal in Norway. Next week you can tune in to “Lunch
You must be logged in to post a comment.