La Lana (literally, “the wool” in Spanish) Wools combine unusual fibers and textures and the timeless art of calling color from the richness of the natural world. Dyes include native plants found in the Southwest that include sage, Indian paintbrush, walnut leaves/hulls, and marigolds. In addition, exotics such as indigo, madder, Brazilwood, and logwood are used to produce rich and subtle variations. Color results depends on the mordant, plant material and fibers, even temperatures and time. (And of course, the artist creating the product.)
The natural hued yarn was captured in spring sunlight as it awaits being wound into a ball as part of our yarn review series that includes bison down, yak blends, possum fiber from New Zealand, qiviut (muskox) and other luxury and unusual fibers.
La Lana Wools of Taos, New Mexico, is known for exquisite plant-dyed yarns. Shown above (top) is handspun Forever Random Blend Wild Wide Ruins colorway, which is hand dyed with madder, logwood and marigold. The lustrous pink skein is Phat Silk Fine in Sweet Pea, 50% silk around a core of 50% wool, millspun in Taos.
Note: La Lana Wools will be closing its doors on Feb. 29, 2012. Sale is on until then; call 1-888-377-9631 for details.
