VENUES 2025
Having decided on my festivals for this year, I am excited about meeting up with my friends, fellow artisans, and patrons at these events! I am musing about what to weave. Next, I have to decide what stock to bring to each show. I agonize over what to pack, especially for a one day small show because I am just not a minimalist. But if you are interested in looking at any of the items that are in my virtual shop, www.handweaving.ca/shop please send me a note handweaving@gmail.com and I will be sure to bring that piece along.
First venue of the year is The Chesterville Spin In, 10 to 4. located in The Legion Hall, 160 Queen St. N., Chesterville, ON This is the 30th year for this festival. It focuses on Spinning and Wool and also provides products for various textile arts. Many people bring spinning wheels and there is a lot of demonstrations. I will have a small booth of my weaving and baskets and will be making cordage from daffodil stems!
The North Dundas Business Expo is held this year on Sat. Apr. 26th at the Joel Steele Community Centre, 577 Main St, W., Winchester, On K0C2K0. I will have a booth on the second floor, joining other small businesses. This is a new way to look at my weaving biz. I love this group, very helpful and inclusive, often small. home based businesses. I will advertise myself to my “hood”, a group I have been guilty of ignoring. Demographics have changed a lot since we moved here and it has surprized me, the reaction to my work and classes from the locals!
I am happy to be returning to the Lansdowne Textiles Festival on Sat. June 7th. It is held in the Lansdowne Community Building. #1 Jessie St., Lansdowne, ON, 10-4. A very lovely show, reflecting the lovely people who coordinate it. Beautiful location near Charleston Lake Provincial Park
Second year for Stash-It! A Fibre and Textile Event,in August, dates to follow, 10-4, in the WB George Building, 48 Shearer St., Kemptville, ON, K0G 1J0. More information at info@stash-itfibre.ca Very excited to be part of of this well curated show.
Back this year is Fibrefest in Almonte. This will be the 50th anniversary! I really wonder how many years I have attended, John says at least 35. I will be a vendor in the Almonte Community Centre, 182 Bridge St., Sept. 6th and 7th. Hours Sat 10-5, Sunday 10-4. A large festival showcasing a great variety of the textile arts. Google Fibrefest Almonte for more information.
And also, back this year, The Ottawa Valley Weavers’ and Spinners’ Guild Sale and Exhibition at the Glebe Community Centre 175 Third Ave., Ottawa. Hours Sat. 10 to 5 and Sunday 10-4. Dates are Nov. 8th and 9th. Weaving, basketry, spinning and felting and also supplies for these crafts are spotlighted More info at www.ovwsg.com/sale/