Part of the Fountains Abbey estate, Swanley Grange was one of the abbey's home farms. It has recently been renovated to provide a glimpse into medieval monastic life, with a vegetable garden and various craft activities, including wool spinning, dyeing and knitting. There was nothing actually being demonstrated (mid-week and mid-winter) when I visited but there was an attractive display of spinning wheels and wool, dyed using natural plant dyes. The spiky teasel heads (above) were used to brush woollen fabric to create a raised nap.
The subdued, natural dyes produce very attractive, softly coloured, finished knits, here combined in squares into quilts. I couldn't help but notice the resemblance to the stonework used in the buildings' construction, which also showed a multitude of subtle colours. It all made my heart sing.
Beautiful soft colors!
ReplyDeleteLove all those soft tones!
ReplyDeleteThese are eye pleasing.
ReplyDeleteIt looks a great place to visit and let your heart sing.
ReplyDelete