JaneSox

Handcrafted knitwear by Jane Barrett

I learned to knit when I was very small, taught  by my mother and sister. I made baby clothes and toys for my nephews and nieces as well as clothes for myself. I learned to crochet, too, making lace doilies with tiny crochet hooks and, in the 1970s,  a crocheted dress  when they were all the rage.

My mum taught me to sew and I used her Singer treadle machine; such happy memories whenever I see one  now. I’m sure that’s why I love spinning so much – same sort of hand-eye-foot coordination and that lovely, soothing, rhythmic treadling action.

I continued to knit on and off throughout school, early working life and university. A decade or so ago I started making socks in earnest and was instantly addicted to them … so portable and again, such a soothing and useful article to make; and  I learned how to customize them so that they fit well.  Plus, to my surprise, other people loved them and have described them as ‘a hug for the feet’. I often knit a pair to relax after making something more complicated. To me, they are easy and relaxing and I have a pattern in my head which I can adapt and customize. I’ve always got several knitting projects on the go … hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, cowls and sometimes sweaters … I’ve even made jewellery by knitting with wire. Take a look at my Gallery to see projects past and present.

Once retired, I dived headlong into the art and craft of spinning. After a career in University research and teaching, I can’t resist a deep dive into a new topic. I joined a local spinner’s Guild and started studying  courses with the Association of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers. I get to try out different spinning techniques and play with all sorts of fibres, including sheep fleeces, cotton, silk, flax (linen); and some luxury ones, like alpaca, camel, and yak. My husband is no longer surprised when I comment ‘ I wonder if I could spin that’!

I love introducing others to these wonderful crafts. I run a local craft group (HI Fibrecrafters) and we’re known in our village for the postbox toppers that brighten the village throughout the year. I do regular spinning demonstrations at Burwell Museum (Cambridgeshire); and occasionally, you’ll find me at local craft fairs, too (see the Events tab for details).

I hope you enjoy browsing my website. If you’d like to buy something from me or wish to commission a knitted piece, please get in touch.