Knitwear Designer Ona Wöldten Collaborates with Junction Fiber Mill Yarn
In a bustling sea of knitted sweaters at the Vermont Sheep & Wool Festival, one design stood out above the rest: the captivating Lindal sweater. This unique creation, adored by fiber enthusiasts far and wide, was the brainchild of Rochester artist Ona Wöldten. With over two decades of experience in knitwear design, Wöldten ventured into uncharted territory with her first hand-knit sweater pattern, using locally manufactured yarn from Vermont.
Behind the Scenes: A Collaborative Journey
Teaming up with Peggy Allen and Amanda Kievet, the innovative minds behind Junction Fiber Mill in White River Junction, Wöldten brought her distinct leafy pattern to life months before the renowned New York State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck. As attendees eagerly prepared their “Rhinebeck sweaters,” a tradition at the festival, Wöldten’s design quickly gained popularity among fiber fans. Handmade versions of the Lindal sweater could be seen throughout the festival, showcasing the seamless blend of artistry and craftsmanship.
Exploring the Fiber Community
Junction Fiber Mill, established in 2021, has become a hub for high-quality wool production and a thriving fiber community. Through their weekly video series “Millcast,” Peggy, Amanda, and Ona have cultivated a global following, offering fiber bundles, knit-alongs, and a shared passion for all things fiber-related. In a recent episode of “Stuck in Vermont,” Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger delved into the heart of Junction Fiber Mill, capturing the essence of creativity and collaboration that defines the space.
A Personal Touch: Eva’s Journey at the Mill
As Eva Sollberger embarked on her first visit to Junction Fiber Mill, she found herself immersed in a world of vibrant colors and intricate textures. Surrounded by the hum of machinery and the scent of lanolin, Eva’s senses were overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the creative process. Drawing inspiration from her own knitwear collection, Eva’s encounter with Wöldten’s designs and the diverse range of yarns at the mill sparked a newfound appreciation for locally sourced fibers. Reflecting on her experience, Eva’s connection to the fibershed and the impact of sustainable choices left a lasting impression, challenging her perspective on consumer habits and environmental consciousness.
From the intricate details of Wöldten’s pattern to the vibrant tapestry of yarns at Junction Fiber Mill, the collaborative spirit of this creative partnership continues to inspire and delight fiber enthusiasts worldwide. As Eva discovered firsthand, the art of knitting transcends mere craftsmanship, weaving together a tapestry of stories, traditions, and shared experiences within the vibrant world of fiber arts.
