Crafting Through Pain: Being a Fiber Artist with Disabilities

As a fiber artist, I've always found joy and fulfillment in creating with my hands. The rhythm of weaving, the meditative process of spinning, and the tactile pleasure of working with yarns and fibers are central to who I am. But what happens when the very body that enables this creativity starts to work against you? This is something I’ve been grappling with as I face ongoing physical challenges—back and knee issues, and, not to be too graphic, a persistent ulcer on the bottom of my foot.

The Frustrations of Physical Limitations

It's hard to put into words the frustration that comes with physical pain, especially when it interferes with something you love. For me, every flare-up in my back or knees can trigger a cycle of avoidance. I find myself stepping away from the loom or the spinning wheel, not because I want to, but because I have to. The ulcer on my foot has been particularly challenging—an ever-present reminder of my limitations, forcing me to constantly adjust how I work and live.

This physical pain can easily spiral into what I call "creative depression." It's that heavy feeling when you know you want to create, but your body just won't cooperate. Over time, the avoidance turns into guilt. I start to question my identity as a fiber artist, doubting whether I can still produce the work I once did. It's a dark place to be, and it's something I wouldn't wish on anyone.

Adaptations That Make a Difference

Fortunately, the fiber arts community is full of resourceful individuals who have developed adaptations and tools to help disabled crafters continue their work. I've found several that have been game-changers for me:

1. Adjustable Height seating: Comfort and posture are crucial when spending long hours at the loom or spinning wheel. I've found that using adjustable-height benches and stools helps me maintain a better posture, which reduces strain on my back and knees. Being able to adjust the height allows me to find the perfect position for each task, whether I'm weaving, spinning, or knitting. Additionally, I use an adjustable office chair with the arms and back removed. This provides mobility and allows me to get close to my work while offering some support and flexibility in seating.

2. Electric Spinning Wheels: Switching to an electric spinning wheel has made a huge difference in my ability to spin for longer periods. These wheels eliminate the need to treadle, which reduces the strain on my knees and foot.

3. Hand-Operated Small Looms: When using my feet isn't an option or I need to give my back a rest, I've found that hand-operated small looms like the inkle loom or pin loom are lifesavers. These portable looms allow me to continue weaving even when I'm in bed due to pain or fatigue. The inkle loom, with its simple, repetitive movements, is perfect for creating small, intricate bands or my favorite, colorful shoe laces. The pin loom, on the other hand, is ideal for crafting small squares that can be pieced together later. Both of these looms require only my hands to operate, so I can still create even when standing or using my feet is out of the question.

Making custom shoe laces on the Inkle loom.

4. Standing Mats and Footwear: Investing in high-quality standing mats and supportive footwear has also helped me manage my foot pain. The extra cushioning reduces the pressure on my ulcer, making it easier to stand for short periods when necessary.

Exercises and Strategies for Consistent Creation

Adapting my tools has been essential, but so has finding ways to maintain consistency in my work despite my physical limitations. Here are some strategies that have helped me:

1. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Incorporating daily stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to my back and knees has helped to improve my mobility and reduce pain. Physical therapy exercises can make a significant difference, especially using a stretch band.

2. Pacing and Rest: Learning to pace myself and take regular breaks has been key. It’s tempting to push through the pain, especially when I'm on a creative roll, but I’ve learned that this only leads to longer recovery times. Instead, I work in shorter, more manageable bursts, allowing my body time to rest and recover. I used to wind six or seven bobbins at a time for long weaving sessions, but now I never wind more than two; getting up stretching and winding robins is a great break from throwing the shuttle and I end up weaving for longer periods than I would if I stayed seated for a long period.

3. Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: Mindfulness exercises and deep breathing techniques help me stay grounded and reduce stress when the pain becomes overwhelming. These practices have also improved my focus, allowing me to stay connected to my work, even on difficult days.

4. Set Realistic Goals: Setting smaller, realistic goals has helped me maintain a sense of accomplishment without overexerting myself. Rather than aiming to complete a large project in one go, I break it down into smaller tasks, celebrating each step as its own achievement. I use the Reminders App that comes with the iPhone for setting small specific time oriented goals, it is great!

Conclusion: Finding Strength in Adaptation

Living and creating with disabilities is a constant balancing act, and it’s one that I’m still learning to navigate. There are days when the frustration feels insurmountable, and the pain too great to push through. But I’ve found strength in adaptation—both in the tools I use and in my approach to work. By making these adjustments and practicing self-compassion, I’ve been able to continue creating, even if it's at a different pace or in a new way.

If you’re a fiber artist facing similar challenges, know that you’re not alone. The road may be tough, but there are ways to adapt and continue doing what you love. Reach out to the community, explore new tools and techniques, and most importantly, listen to your body. Our creativity is a powerful force, and with the right strategies, we can find ways to keep that creative spirit alive, no matter what challenges come our way.

If you have any experiences or tips to share, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Let’s support each other as we navigate the intersection of creativity and physical limitation.

By Trent, your fellow crafter and creator of The Weft Wright, sharing the joy of fiber arts from my cozy studio in the mountains of western North Carolina.