Art, Fiber, and Friends: A look back on 2025.
The shift from working in Grand Rapids to building a community hub in Bigfork was well-received.
I’m happiest when I am making things and sharing with friends.~ Elie
Year in Review
This year hasn’t just been about running the shop; it’s been about taking risks to create a vibrant and inviting space to share and learn… right here in Bigfork. When I look back on the last few months, the brightest accomplishment has been the start of a wonderful community.
The Spark: Alpacas In The Pines
Everything took root in September with the Alpacas in the Pines event. The day was a whirlwind for me because I didn’t know what I should prepare for. Would anyone be interested in coming so far off the beaten path to see a few alpacas and sheep and learn about a craft that may not feel relevant in this fast-paced digital age? To my great surprise, the risk paid off with many new faces in attendance and a few familiar friends who have been supportive since I first moved here in 2021.
Seeing so many people eager to gather and learn together really made the rest fall right into place. It confirmed what I had hoped. That event was the foundation and energy that helped to propel us into a new future for our business.
The Creative space
My shop was transformed into a lively teaching studio with supplies for core classes like weaving and knitting, and a new space for basic ceramics.
- Weaving Workshops: Seven rigid heddle looms, and a desire to teach, launched the first weaving workshop. It was rewarding to see the friendships that developed as our scarves grew longer. Each project was completed with beautiful and unique designs. Though we all worked from the same general pattern, the end results were varied and beautiful.
- Needle Felting: There is something truly magical about turning a puff of wool into a charming piece of art. The needle felting classes were fun, and the results were worthy of a nice frame and a spot on the gallery wall. No one was injured in the making of our art.
- Ceramics; Of all the projects that I took on, I think the ceramics was the most groundbreaking ( slight pun about clay coming from the ground, forgive me), the fact is, ceramics and fiber make a great combination.
Expanding Horizons: Online Teaching.
The community isn’t limited to our physical space. This year, I took teaching classes online again. The Lala Cowl KAL was a great success. It proves that connection and quality instruction can be done from the comfort of home. It was fun to see the cowls come together. My greatest achievement was hearing about the many compliments the knitters received on their cowls. Grandma Lala would be proud.
What comes next? Look to 2026!
As this year wraps up, my excitement and focus is on the many wonderful activities I have planned for the upcoming year. We have new classes, visiting artists, and special events lined up. I know you won’t want to miss it. We are building momentum and this year’s accomplishments are leading us to bigger, richer and more creative projects in 2026.
