Explore the world of natural fibers during Fiber Arts Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, September 28-29 from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Explore natural fibers through a variety of demonstrations, mini-exhibits, and hands-on activities showing how they are harvested, processed, and transformed into wearable, utilitarian, and decorative items. Related vendors will also be on-site.

Whether from animal or vegetal origin, fibers and textiles have been an important part of our lives since the dawn of history. Processed into yarns and threads, dyed and woven, they have always had a utilitarian purpose as well as social importance.

See museum interpreters, local quilting clubs, spinning clubs and guilds demonstrate how flax becomes linen, how wool and cotton is spun on various spinning wheels, and how textiles are produced on looms or through needle arts. You will never think of your clothes in the same way again!

Hands-on activities include carding wool, spinning wool on a drop spindle, weaving, felting (making a felt ball), and quilting. Demonstrations include rope making, flax to linen, felting, warping a loom, yarn dyeing, knitting, crocheting, and spinning on the “great wheel” at the Lippitt Farmhouse.

During Fabulous Fiber Arts Weekend, life in the nineteenth century continues throughout the museum’s historic village and farmstead. Don’t miss The Empire State Carousel and the Children’s Barnyard with its sheep, goats, and other friendly animals. If you like craft beverages, take one of our final Hoppy Trails Tours and discover the history of hops in the region–both days at 11:00 a.m.

Ticket prices: Adults (13-64): $12.00; seniors (65+): $10.50; youth (7-12): $6.00; children (6 and under): free. Museum members are always admitted free, as are active-duty and retired career military.