By Anne Podlesak.
Owner/Dyer: Kate Sitzman
Shop: Woolgatherings
http://woolgatherings.etsy.com
Q: How did you decide to start an indie fiber business?
My business was started by my mother-in-law Sandy over 20 years ago, and is now in its second generation. Sandy had been mentoring me for years on all things fiber, but I just did it for fun, and didn’t really think of participating in the business aspect until she decided to retire a few years ago. I was a stay-at-home mom and had some time on my hands since my kids were getting a bit older, so I started dyeing for a couple of her clients, and then added a few of my own, and before long, I was dyeing full-time.
Q: Favorite fiber/yarn and favorite color?
I definitely go through phases, but my main go-to fiber for both dyeing and spinning tends to be Blue Face Leicester. It takes dye really well, and drafts easily for spinning. For the fun factor, I really love kid mohair locks – they are so soft and glossy, and you can make them into some wild color mixes. For colors, I am a bit partial to warm colors, like reds, oranges, and browns.
Q: Sources of inspiration? What things do you see cropping up over and over in your colorways and/or designs?
I am definitely inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. I feel very fortunate to live in here, with so many trees, waterways, and mountains. I think it shows up in my work in the form of softer, more earthy colors.
I also love to travel, and I am often inspired by the scenery I see in other parts of the world, and by the ways other cultures use color in their textiles, art and architecture.
Q: What project(s) are you working on in your spare time?
Aside from my fiber, my biggest project is homeschooling my kids. I really love how it lets me be a kid all over again – seeing the world through their eyes.
Q: Other mediums you like to work in?
I spin and knit my fibers and I am just starting to try crochet and weaving. I also love sewing and working with fabric. I don’t typically stray too far from fiber, but I have dabbled in pretty much everything. I especially love photography, and I love to paint things – even if it’s just walls and furniture. I guess there’s just something I find fascinating about turning something from one color to another!
