About the Artist - Cathy Phaneuf
Let me begin with, I am a handspinner. Sitting with my wheel and a basketful of wool is my passion. Being a reluctant knitter with tons of beautiful yarn, I turned to weaving as a means of using up my yarn and was hooked for life. Weaving allows me to be creative while soothing my soul.

I live with my husband on a small farm outside Columbiaville Michigan . We both enjoy spending time at home and my fiber activities fill most of my days since retiring from a 30 year career that kept me away many hours a week. I spend most of the winter spinning and weaving to build up my inventory so that in the summer I can travel to Sheep and Wool Festivals and Art Fairs throughout Michigan. For a list of the shows that I will be participating in, see the Shows & Events page.

Her Work
The last year my focus has changed regarding my weaving. I purchased/acquired 4 AVL brand looms which enable me to weave more efficiently and create more intricate patterns. I am now able to put long warps on my looms and change paterns easily, giving me more creative possibilities for shawls, scarves and table linens.

I have added a rug shop at my farm. I weave with mostly upholstery selvedge, cotton sock loopers and a few rag rugs. These rugs all use materials that have been repurposed. All my rugs are machine wash and dry. I currently have a good selection of rugs at Collettes Vintage and Antique Shop in Burton, Michigan and at all my shows. I do custom rugs mainly in the off season when I am not so busy with shows.

I am also selling some of my things at the Alpaca Shop at Dreamcatcher Alpacas in Oxford, Mi. Norma and Larry Wheeler have a wonderful shop with a nice selection of alpaca yarns and wearables as well as the work of various local artists. Handmade soaps, bath salts and scrubs, handknit garments, garden art and jewelry. They are open weekends 10-4.

Additional Information
I have several looms ranging in size from 19 to 120”, 2 to 16 harnesses. I buy used looms and recondition them for resale. If you are in the market for a loom, a used loom is a great way to start out without a huge financial investment. I generally help with delivery and setup, get the loom warped and get you started on a project as part of my services, distance allowing. Many times I also have used weaving tools for sale. Have a loom you'd like to sell? Give me a call, I might be interested.

I have several AVL brand looms. If you would like to see one in action or have questions about your AVL, feel free to contact me. I have experience with mechanical dobby looms, none with Compudobby looms.