Clara Parkes

2.5 stars

The first few essays were alright, but I slogged through most of this book. I was hoping it would impart some creative inspiration to readers, even non-knitting ones, but sadly, it didn't.

The main focus is yarn; all the festivals and marketplaces mentioned blended into one; there was a lot of name-dropping of those in the knitting world, of whom I know nothing; no stories were particularly memorable.

I'm sure I would have enjoyed this more if I actually was a knitter; but even then, I can't see myself giving more than three stars for the book.… (plus d'informations)

Clara Parkes is well-known in the fiber arts world for her knowledge of fibers used to make yarn, and the process of spinning and dyeing fiber. Her books, The Knitter’s Book of Yarn and The Knitter’s Book of Socks, are on my reference shelf. Parkes has emerged as an advocate for the wool industry, no doubt influenced by the experiences chronicled in Vanishing Fleece.

Clara Parkes spent about a year working with different spinners and dyers to turn a 676-pound bale of fleece into yarn. The bale was divided into fourths with different partners processing each portion. Working with both small- and large-scale operations, she took an active role in production and was able to observe the process, get to know the people involved, and learn about the challenges facing the American wool and textile industries. Four very different types of yarn emerged, each with its own benefits and flaws. I really enjoyed her narrative style and the way she brought the process to life.

Since publishing this book Parkes has launched The Wool Channel, a free newsletter with more perks available for patrons. While wool remains a declining industry worldwide, there are glimmers of hope as new uses are found, and as consumers begin to appreciate the benefits of moving away from synthetic fibers, for the environment as well as overall comfort.… (plus d'informations)

I have no idea where I heard about this one, and now I am wondering if it was an Audible Daily Deal at some point. It's fascinating and completely charming. The author narrates it herself and does and excellent job - and I am very picky about my narrators. This is an examination of the American wool industry and why it is slowly vanishing. She starts with the sheep, and takes you all the way through her journey of turning a bale of fleece into marketable yarn. She divides up her fleece and some it goes through independent mills and some through highly commercial ones. She does the same thing when it comes to dying it. She asks great questions and makes you care about what the answers are, all the while making the journey a highly entertaining one.… (plus d'informations)