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Nancy Bush handicraft workshop

Apr 8, 2016 Estonian Life No. 14 2016


Nancy Bush is a well-known and highhly-respected American handicraft artist with a special interest in Estonian knitting traditions.

As a knitting specialist, she has owned a craft shop in Utah, and has written at least five books about knitting. She continues to contribute articles to craft magazines such as Piecework. She conducts workshops all over the world.

Her interest in Estonian folk knitting began when she was preparing a book about folk knitting in general and went to Estonia to continue her research. Since then she has visited Estonia many times.
Nancy has become particularly interested in the history and construction of Haapsalu shawls. She has a large collection both bought by her and given to her. There is currently a group of about 50 people who knit and sell shawls there. Nancy is now leading tours to Haapsalu.
From the left, Jane Olvet, Nancy Bush. Photo: Private collection.

The focus of Sunday's workshop was to introduce the technique of knitting a three sided miniature Haapsalu shawl. Each of the 20 participants received several pages of instructions and a small ball of lace yarn. The knitters were at varying levels of experience, but Nancy was very kind and patient with everyone. I think one experienced, dedicated knitter finished her shawl during the afternoon.

Photo: Private collection
A delicious light lunch of soup, meat pies and bread was included. Of course there was kringle to have with coffee.

I have been a fan of Nancy Bush for many years and was delighted to meet her and to have the opportunity of writing this summary. We have two important things in common. Although neither of us is Estonian, we have a deep love and respect for Estonian crafts, and we are both passionate knitters. It was a wonderful day.

Jane Olvet

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