
Ancient Arts Fibre Cras has always been about the connection
between the past and the present. reads, and yarn, bind us together
both literally and guratively; providing continuity between the
people making the earliest textile work more than 30,000 years ago to
the people making the latest yarn creations published today. We are
connected by threads both in time and around the globe. No matter
where we are we are united by a shared love of working with yarn.
e theme for this collection is drawn from this history and from
these connections: it is a theme of history, of diversity, and of sharing!
When we began work on this collection, we couldn’t have known that between the submissions call and the
publication process we’d be headed into a pandemic, nor had we any idea of how many COVID-19 challenges
would be coming our way, repeatedly throwing o production plans. Flexibility and creativity took center stage as
we juggled ways to move forward while keeping everyone safe. Physically distanced photoshoots were held over
a series of short, small, outdoor shoots to minimize risk, and our amazing co-workers graciously became models
as well! Everyone involved put in a tremendous amount of work under dicult circumstances and in the end it
brought us closer in spirit even when we remained physically distant.
is pattern collection celebrates a very special yarn, Lascaux Fine, which speaks to the very heart of the
connection between ancient and modern textiles and people. is yarn incorporates the natural colour and
cushiness of Manx Loaghtan Wool, a rare iron-age sheep breed from the Isle of Man, and the drape and lustre of
Punta Arenas Wool, a modern Corridale sheep from Chile. ese wools together create a ngering weight two-
ply yarn perfect for all manner of garments, shawls and accessories. We asked designers from around the world
to dream up ideas to showcase this yarn’s range and versatility, and we hope you will agree that the results are
absolutely stunning!
We’ve included designs here from designers from all walks of life, and are proud to include people of many
genders, and from the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. We included designers just beginning their
professional careers and designers at the height of their careers. All highlight the wonderful qualities of Lascaux
Fine in elegant lace, in lightweight textures, and in stunning arrays of colour. We know that the projects within
these pages will keep you busy and cozy year-round, providing many years of comfort. ank you for joining us
and please enjoy!
All the best,
Caroline Sommerfeld
Photo Credit: John Hedges Saepes Knossos