We wear clothing every day, but we often forget that clothing is an art form. But the Verde Valley Weavers & Spinners Guild’s annual “Fabulous Fiber Sale 2021” seeks, in part, to upend that. “I think it’s important for [the community] to see another art craft,” says Shirley Eichten Albrecht, the past president and guild sale co-chairperson of the Verde Valley Weavers & Spinners Guild. “There’s all these painters and all these other fine artists. I call this fine craft. And I think it’s important for them to see that because, let’s face it, years and years ago, what got things started were the weavers. Weavers, they made their clothes. You can’t wear a painting, but you can wear what you’ve woven. So it’s been important through history.”
Held on Oct. 1 and 2, this is the sale’s seventh year. The first sale was held in 2013 during the group’s 40th anniversary year. The event was so well-received that the guild decided to hold the event annually. About 20 artists will be selling their wares. Find handmade shawls, scarves, hats, handwoven baskets and handknitted scarves. Look forward to a wide selection of styles and colors. Shirley plans on bringing about 30 of her baskets to sell. “It’s really satisfying for our weavers to be able to sell some things, and it feeds their habits,” she says. “It kind of energizes you.”
Besides an array of dazzling fiber goods, attendees also can expect to see weaving and spinning demonstrations. Weather permitting, the demos may be held outdoors. Education is another key part of the group’s mission. Seeing weavers practicing their craft in real time can help create a deeper appreciation for fiber arts. “They have a better understanding of what it is to weave, whether it’s a basket or a shawl or a towel,” says Shirley. “I think that’s pretty important. Even if they don’t buy anything, they have a better understanding of it.” The Fabulous Fiber Sale is slated to be held on Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sedona United Methodist Church at 110 Indian Cliffs Road in the Village of Oak Creek. Visit verdevalleyweaversguild.com for more information.
