Heritage Weekend at the Folk Art Center & Heirloom Restorations

Celebrating traditions, restoring heirlooms, and welcoming fall in Western North Carolina.

September was a happy and exciting month for us in Western North Carolina; the Blue Ridge Parkway is now open from Asheville west to Mt. Pisgah and north to Mount Mitchell. This made the Folk Art Center easier to access in time for our annual Heritage Weekend and the annual World Whimmy Diddle Championship. Last year this took place just one week before Hurricane Helene hit, and September 28 has since become a day of remembrance.

Some areas of Western NC were devastated, and we lost over 100 people in the unexpected floods. About 25% of the rebuilding is completed, with Chimney Rock, Swannanoa, and other hard-hit areas still in recovery. The River Arts District is slowly reopening, though many artists lost their studios and inventory. Biltmore Village businesses are rebuilding, and the historic All-Saints Church restoration is underway.

ABC’s Good Morning America covered our area last week, sharing the message that we are open for business and welcoming visitors to leaf season in Western NC. We are so grateful for the opportunity to invite guests back to celebrate the season with us!

Celebrating Together

We had a wonderful turnout for Heritage Weekend—images are on the Southern Highland Craft Guild Facebook page. The event turned into a joyous reunion for many artists who hadn’t seen each other since last year’s gathering. Many of us host out-of-town members, which makes it even more special.

Despite one heavy downpour during the Whimmy Diddle competition, a large tent kept participants dry enough to complete the games and crown the winners—with the usual Moon Pies and root beer as prizes! Musicians simply moved indoors and entertained visitors in the lobby of the Folk Art Center. Rain or shine, it was wonderful to celebrate heritage and community together again.

Studio Work & New Restorations

I’m looking forward to my next demo session at the Folk Art Center October 9–12. Leaf season should keep us busy, and I have several new surprises planned for visitors!

In September, I completed two meaningful restorations. The first was a circular pineapple tablecloth, damaged in the center by either a hot dish or acid/bleach. I removed the destroyed fibers and replaced them with the proper cotton thread. My customer was thrilled—she plans to gift this heirloom to a cousin for Christmas.

The second was a banquet-size medallion and filet crochet cloth. Age and improper washing had broken many connectors, and candle wax left stains. I restored the connectors, reinforced weak threads, and repaired the filet border, which bears the inscription: “With love from mom.” This piece was used at an engagement party and will now be passed down to the new daughter-in-law. Helping preserve family traditions is always such a joy.

On the Hook: Windmill Expansion

I’ve also started another project for my Windmills customer (see June Musings). Her banquet tablecloth was too short, so I am adding three rows of 18 sections to each end. It’s a big project using #30 thread and a tiny #12 hook (the smallest is #14!). Progress is slow, but I’ve matched the thread perfectly in Natural, and the finished cloth will be ready in time for Thanksgiving. Next month I’ll share images of the finished piece.

Looking Ahead

Let’s enjoy a peaceful fall. Crisp air and colorful leaves are inspiring and good for the soul! I love this gentle pause before the holiday rush.

The news warns of a new storm, Imelda, which might affect our area. We have new flood warning systems in place, but let’s hope Mother Nature passes us by this time.

Be safe and enjoy the fall colors!

New in the Studio

The Round Pineapple Cloth

The Medallion & Filet Crochet Cloth