The first Bare Cloth shawl was a complete accident. I rolled off the first woven warp from the loom and a scrap of fabric just happened to be the perfect length to drape around me as an extra layer. I quickly learned it also worked folded over as a blanket when sitting by the fire, and I found myself wrapped in it for my morning meditations. This accidental piece turned into the best serendipitous wrap and the birth of the go-to companion, the Bare cloth shawl.
After having this piece for eight years I've come to depend on it daily. When I originally started making shawls in the hopes of duplicating the original, I wanted them to be dependable, durable, maintain their beauty, and be something you didn't have to worry or think about in terms of care. My original shawl still looks fresh and new just like the day it came off of the loom and I am relieved to know that I have countless years of wear to go with this piece.
I've started to believe that everyone needs a handy wool shawl to accompany them on life's adventures. I've noticed how this shawl now holds countless memories and I think back to the biggest, best, and messiest moments of the last eight years and appreciate that this piece was also their accompanying the journey. Let's say I've become a big fan and an unsuspecting convert and I'm happy to share a little about how this piece truly is a quality staple for anyone wanting to lean into simplicity and ease.
Here's what a weekend in the life of a Bare Cloth shawl looks like for me! Come with and let's take a quick journey, shawl and all. Enjoy the ride!
It's road trip day! All the bags are packed, water and tea thermoses filled, books loaded and the shawl is... still on my bed as a certain furry friend claimed it for a morning nap. This is a common occurrence. It is rare to find the shawl sitting alone. After some negotiation tactics, the shawl is procured, rolled up, and packed in the travel basket.
I have what I call 'carry-on' car items. These are items I need accessible during. thedrive. The shawl is always a 'carry-on' item, whether flying or driving. : )
These shawls are packing experts. They fold easily in a basket, roll up to top off a weekender bag, serve as a last item before zipping up the luggage, or as a final layer to keep me warm as I leave the house. I've been waiting for the day when unpacking my shawl at the end of a trip feels like an extra thing I didn't need on my journey. I have yet to feel like this piece is weighing me down and on the rare occasions of forgetting to pack it, I have missed its reliability.
This is where the coziness begins... lap blanket anyone?
Whether I require a warm layer, rolled-up pillow, or a full-fledged nap-time fort for the car, this shawl has the super strength of multiforming! No matter if I am traveling in the middle of July or January the magic of wool keeps me insulated and cozy. Whether that's staying warm or cool, the power of wool is at work keeping me comfortable no matter what the situation calls for.
Once I arrive at my destination the shawl quickly finds a new home. Draped across the bed or sleeping bag and potentially already adopted by the local pet as their new favorite thing.
While traveling the shawl still accompanies me out and about. For example, one day included running out for coffee with friends, an afternoon showing at the cinema (How do we feel about going back to calling the theater the cinema? It just rolls off the tongue, I think it's worth considering), and staying in as we all gather on the couch for a fav chick flick (this time it's While You Were Sleeping, I know, a classic).
The following day includes a special outing to the Minnesota Orchestra, a personal favorite of mine. Of course, the shawl is in tow!
I often describe myself as being a 'basics girl' when talking about my style and wardrobe. I wear a minimal amount of items that can be dressed up or down based on what else I'm wearing. My shawl easily falls under the definition of a 'basic'. I love the ease of knowing no matter the situation from weddings to camping with friends to traveling to the big city, or just staying home, the shawl truly is a companion that matches so many day-to-day needs.
Alas, our short weekend trip has come to an end and it's time to head home...
The shawl is rolled and added to the weekend bag, the car is loaded, and as soon as my driving shift is over I settle in with my shawl, a new book, and an hour or two to myself. : )
I also want to make a special note for my fellow chronic pain twinsies out there: This wool shawl is my go-to when navigating a flare-up of pain. For my body, dry heat is the greatest pain minimizer and comfort when I have a difficult body day. There are countless days this simple shawl is a lifesaver and helps bring support and ease to get me through what can feel like impossible pain-filled moments. So if you are a fellow user of dry-heat to reduce pain, from a fellow spoony, I highly recommend!
Are you curious about picking out a travel companion of your own?
Visit the Bare Cloth shop and see what magic awaits you!
Until next time, this shawl and Keila, are signing off ; )
And look! I take a break from editing this post and someone has already claimed the shawl for the evening : )
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