New fabric exhibit to open May 9 at Lincoln Log Cabin in conjunction with popular "Sheep to Clothing" special event that day

LERNA, IL - Lincoln Log Cabin's new exhibit "From Fiber to Fabric: Uncovering the Handweaving Process" will open in conjunction with the poplar "Sheep to Clothing" special event on Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site near Charleston. The event is free and open to the public.

Students from the Historical Administration Program at Eastern Illinois University worked with the historic site to research, develop, and construct the new exhibit which follows the handweaving process. The exhibit features outstanding coverlets and handwoven articles from both site and private collections. These items range from a bed rug woven circa 1799 to contemporary art pieces woven today.

As a component of the new exhibit, interpreters will demonstrate weaving on the site's mid-19th century Sargent and Martin looms, replicating a period coverlet on one loom and weaving "jean cloth" on the other. The live demonstrations are sure to be enjoyed by all ages. The exhibit will interest weaving novices, connoisseurs and anyone interested in the weaving process and includes interactive components and labels aimed at adults and children alike, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Additional activities will take place at both the Lincoln and Sargent Farms as part of the "Sheep to Clothing" event, where site volunteers will demonstrate all of the steps involved in the processing of wool. Activities will include shearing the site's sheep, sorting and washing the wool, teasing and carding the wool for spinning, and then the spinning of wool into yarn where some of the yarn will end up being knit into items following 19th century patterns. Interpreters and volunteers will also demonstrate dying and felting as well as showcasing the final step in the process where wool jean cloth is sewn to make clothing.

Sharon and Trish Stovall of Lawrenceville, Illinois will return this year to identify and evaluate antique coverlets for the public. "Sharon has been involved in weaving and textile research for more than 30 years, making her an invaluable source of information on antique textiles," said Lincoln Log Cabin Site Manager Matthew Mittelstaedt. "This is a unique opportunity for community members to have their heirloom textiles examined by individuals who can not only often identify the pattern, but also in some cases identify the weaver of a particular piece."

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, is located seven miles south of Charleston or 15 miles southeast of Mattoon, Illinois. For a listing of all special events or for more information call Lincoln Log Cabin at (217) 345-1845, or visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org.