Kauppala is shop in Finnish. Aunes Kauppala is a quaint little place that is open from May through October ..but only on Thursdays through Sunday. Aune has a real job..so she is one busy lady. When you shop there, it takes some time..her items vary from homemade potholders..to used paperback with a few antiques and collectibles thrown in for good measure.
Many local artisans consign their wares at Aunes..I believe she still has a few of my Ladyslipper Cards. She doesn't have any of the tourist trap made in China or Taiwan crap. She may however have just a few things that are made in Finland.
Last Fall during Snellman Days Aune had her small loom set up outside. This loom used to belong to her Mother. Aune was giving a weaving demonstration.
I know nothing of the process other than I used to help cut strips of fabric and then when the ends were sewn together I used to help roll them into balls..they would then go to the rug maker and in a few months we would have new rag rugs. I have watched a number of people work the loom..I believe it is all about rhythm.. and of course stringing that warp (Thread) on the loom must be a real nightmare. My Father built a loom. One winter he took his brother Ervin's Loom and made an exact replica. There are a few looms in the family..someone should take some lessons..before all the old teachers are gone.
Aune was making place-mats and table runners.. she talked while she demonstrated. The thing that she said that stuck with me was " My Mother used this loom so much that her hand wore a spot in the wood. I can almost feel her closeness when I weave.":)
