Two new books to be promoted at Wonderwool

Two new books will be promoted at this year’s Wonderwool Wales, the award-winning show that celebrates all that’s great about Welsh wool and natural fibres.

Ria Burns, who designs and makes sustainable knitwear in Bristol, has chosen to launch her new book, Dyeing Yarn Naturally, published by the Crowood Press, at the 17th show, which will be held at the

Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells on April 22 and 23.

Meanwhile, TOFT founder

Kerry Lord’s latest publication, Alexandra’s Garden: Flowers, which features patterns to make 30 crochet flowers and will be launched at the end of March, will be promoted at Wonderwool Wales.

Ria makes small batch, artisanal clothes from local, traceable wool. She hand dyes her garments with homegrown and foraged native plants, handmaking each piece to create a locally made, long-lasting and unique product that works with, not against, the environment.

The knitwear is designed for longevity and Ria takes pride in showcasing the natural hues and qualities of British wool as a soft, warm, and durable textile.

‘Dyeing Yarn Naturally’ is a step-by-step guide to the process of dyeing yarn naturally from start to finish. This practical book explains the basics of how to colour yarn successful- ly with plant-based dyes.

It starts with a detailed account of how to source materials and equipment, then moves onto how to prepare yarn and finally how to dye.

Packed with advice and illustrated with inspiring photos, this guide will launch readers on a sustainable and creative journey that explores and celebrates the dyeing potential of everyday plants.

“Wonderwool Wales will be the book’s first official outing after publication, so I think it technically counts as the launch, which is very exciting,” said Ria whose website is at https://www.riaburns.co.uk/ .

Kelly’s much-anticipated book, ‘Alexandra’s Garden: Flowers’, celebrates TOFT’s 30 favourite flowers, travelling through the four seasons of the garden.

Flowers range from the first snowdrop shoots pushing through the frost to the delicate