Handwoven clothing and accessories for today’s lifestyle.

Pat Beard Handwovens

Pat and daughter Victoria.

 

Artist Statement

By combining interesting colours with textures and a touch of shiny yarn, I weave my fabric on old-fashioned looms—several my husband built for me. Although I will weave a number of pieces from the same warp threads, each piece is different. After the weaving, I wash each panel before sewing on my old industrial machines. Traditional scarves and shawls are carefully hand finished. I do all my own weaving and sewing.

I’ve designed clothing that goes from the schoolroom to the boardroom, from everyday shopping to a night at the opera. Timeless shapes in washable cotton are my forte.  Other natural fibres take centre stage including silk, rayon, and bamboo. I’m also creating cuddly wraps by adding man-made yarns into the mix. I have an incredible amount of fun working with colours, sometimes subtle sometimes outrageous, but always wearable. 

I’m proud to be a state juried member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen.  “It’s an honor awarded to work deemed to show excellence in craftsmanship, resolved design and a unique voice (style).”  I’ve won a few awards along the way, but more importantly I’ve made functional art that people want to wear!

I’m a genuine fibreholic!  Along with weaving, I love to knit myself socks.  Recently I learned (help from U-tube video) the magic loop method of using a long circular needle for toe-up knitting.  Proof you can teach an old dog new tricks.  Using the Addi lace needles—no more arthritis cramps from using dpn’s.  I’ve also done crochet, felting (wet & dry), needlepoint, and I love to spin alpaca into yarn.

If I’m not in my studio, you’ll find me in the garden or kitchen.