I’ve always wondered how it was possible to obtain elastic, durable and comfortable sock yarns without resorting to synthetic fibers. To answer this question, I studied several ancestral yarn recipes, as well as the nature of different breeds of sheep, in order to find yarn blends that met these essential criteria while being environmentally friendly and highlighting our local wools.

Another aim of the meeting was to popularize the properties of the different fibers, to provide basic information on this product which is part of the culture of northern countries such as Canada. Owning a pair of wool socks is a necessity for many northern communities. Let’s also offer them information and opportunities to access quality local products for warmth.

This event will also provide an opportunity to discover the different properties of the fibers used to make socks, and to give the general public access to this basic information. We will then be able to offer quality local product choices for northern communities, while continuing to respect the environment and promoting our local wools.

*Participants will need their own tools for the textile discipline they wish to work with: knitting, crochet and felting needles, spinning wheel, etc.

An initiative from : 

Canadian-Brazilian Marcelo Ribeiro Martins has been living on an island in Lac Saint-Pierre, close to nature and Quebec’s major cities, since 2008. Passionate about textiles from an early age and curious about nature and simplicity, he decided to take his hobby to the professional level and as a tool for social engagement.

Marcelo, a spinner, is also a knitter, crocheter and weaver from time to time. He shares his enthusiasm and passion for fibers and Spinning on his weekly web-series on social networks, as well as on his YouTube channel where he presents his work in his professional workshop: Makeloo Studio. He also coordinates textile activities at Centre des Textiles Arts des Îles, a community textile center in Lanaudière where he has also been teaching the community and young people about the fiber and wool cycle since 2018.

He shares the values of community work, local products and links between artisans and regional producers to promote art, culture, health and a circular socio-economy.

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