Mulling Gift Suitability

Happy B.C. Day!

I don't know if you ever look at the right-hand column of my blog here, but there is a list of projects I anticipate doing at some point.

One of these is to make one gift in handspun for every family member. Production could take me years, so if you are related to me by blood or marriage, have patience. Better yet, just forget about this project so I can surprise you someday.

I thought it prudent to start with the eldest members of my family. I am fortunate to still have family members two generations older than me.

I've already given one of them a hat.

Another elderly relative will be getting my first lace project, which will be an Old Shale Smoke Ring in my Long Time No Sea Blue Face Leicester laceweight yarn, which is pictured above.

I still have to determine what to spin and make for the other elder family member.

I asked the advice of a fellow guild member and she helpfully pointed out that the item ought to be easy to wash since the person has the washing done by someone else. I guess if superwash wool is called for, then I will spin superwash. I would rather not. For one thing, I prefer untreated wool. For another thing, I want to limit myself as much as possible to spinning what I have on hand in order to reduce my fiber stash.

I thought of felted slippers, as there is no way that I know of to ruin felted slippers by washing. I've neither made a slipper nor felted yet and such a project would allow me meet another long-term goal, trying new skills. However, I would probably get the size wrong and floppy slippers would be a safety hazard when walking.

Hot water bottle cover? Noro/Wurm hat? Miniature knitted wool Christmas ornaments that would not need washing? I have some silk I can spin into yarn. Silk would not felt but still might need special washing care. Must think some more.