LOCKERHOOK UPDATE
Last August GUDRUN ROBINSON was featured on the Enterprise pages of GoodLife, creating wonderful items made from Portuguese wool using the ancient art of lockerhooking. Her enterprise has progressed and now, for those who would like to try their hand at lockerhooking, there are now kits available - complete with English instructions and your very own lockerhook. CAROLYN KAIN takes a closer look at this unusual, creative pastime.
THE WHYS OF LOCKERHOOKING
It is an opportunity to work with the specially spun and firmly twisted wool that is manufactured in the area around the famous carpet town of Arraiolos. Gudrun's venture has caused a particular stir amongst the Portuguese community, who take great pride in the 17th century background of Arraiolos carpet making. However, the complex techniques involved in creating a carpet with the traditional oblique cross-stitch, on a backing of sackcloth, is beyond most people of today - except for a few very skilled artisans. A carpet of this type costs many thousands of euros.
Gudrun orginated the idea of a marriage between the lockerhook and Arraiolos wool. This has enabled her, and anyone else, to design and produce a personal creation - a carpet, runner, wall hanging or, for an absolute beginner, a lowly tea cosy or pan holder. Add to this that is is a soothing pastime, allowing for absorption in your own thoughts whilst watching an unusual piece of handiwork develop before your very eyes.
WHAT IS LOCKERHOOKING?
Firstly it is not difficult nor, inch by inch/cm, as time consuming as knitting or tapestry. Gudrun explains, "the lockerhook is a substantial needle with an eye at one end and a crochet hook at the other. The crochet hook pulls up loops of wool through the holes of a canvas base. The eye carries a length of wool which is pulled through the loops, thereby 'locking' ('o ponto trancado') the loops onto the top of the canvas".
The creative side of the craft is accomplished by developing your own designs. A true art form that has nothing to do with painting by numbers or following a paper pattern.
HOW AND WHERE?
Gudrun is a regular participant at 'Feiras de Serra' throughout the Algarve, where she can be seen at work. It is an ideal time to watch a canvas as it progresses to become a carpet. A visit to her website reveals further details of her work and the starter kits which can be ordered direct.
If you have an eye for design, an interest in textiles and the luxury of spare time, this is an absorbing, original hobby. You might even create a family heirloom!
www.gudrun-robinson.com
sales@gudrun-robinson.com
Telephone: 289 991 159
Mobile: 965 687 300
GoodLife Magazine, March 2003
