Ribbons of Friendship

Posted by Sally Shore in HandPrints Stories & Videos | 0 comments

© Sally Shore

Now that my friend, Bonnie, and I live a thousand miles apart, we no longer exchange gifts for birthdays and holidays, but each of us makes an occasional gift of something we know would be appreciated by the other. One such “perfect gift” was a book about weaving with ribbon, which I received in 1991.

Since the early 70’s I had been weaving commissioned rugs and wall hangings, and working as a graphic designer. But my looms were idle more and more of the time; you’d be surprised how much you can store piled up on a loom!

I was still wearing my hair very long, tied into pony tails with ribbons which my mother-in-law bought me by the yard. When Bonnie’s book arrived I leafed through the pages and decided to try a few projects. I pulled out my box of ribbons and my sewing kit, and set out to make a small purse. The resulting panel contained several floral and paper ribbons which would not hold up as a hand bag, but that first attempt sent me to the store to buy more ribbons. After completing several lined purses, I began to show them to my friends, who encouraged me to sell them.

Now, having made hundreds of works from ribbon and after dozens of exhibits, I still marvel at the variety of colors and textures, and the limitless possibilities of combinations I have yet to try. Seeing gallery patrons interact with my work further encourages me to continue exploring.

I have a full-time studio business creating purses, boas and wall hangings from ribbons. Bonnie has accompanied me to two weaving conventions in support of my endeavors, and I accord her full credit if I am lucky enough to have her attend gallery openings, or tag along on ribbon-buying sprees.

I recently published A Ribbon Weaver’s Handbook, which I hope will inspire more people to have as much fun with ribbon as I do. My career is one I would never have pursued without Bonnie’s influence. And the ribbons I weave are like the strands of friendship that provided the “perfect gift” for me.

Ribbon Strands Photo By clintscholz