We value traditional forms and methods as well as innovation in the realm of fiber art and textiles. We inspire our readers through fiber arts-related stories; connect artists, organizations and communities with each other; and consistently introduce new angles and ideas in order to enliven the world of fiber arts and encourage our readers to be creative and learn from each other.
On a personal note... I started VFL over a year ago, and it has been steadily growing since the beginning. It started as a simple blog which was created to post pictures from my local quilt show. But very quickly, I realized that there were so many fiber arts-related areas I wanted to learn about - imagine being able to contact fiber artists and fiber-related organizations (alpaca farms, felting suppliers, authors, artists, etc.) and engage them, learn from them, and then tell all your friends about it. That is really what I feel I am doing, each time I write a story, post a new resource or send out a newsletter. I have partnered with many respected contributors/writers, and strive to create a high quality, engaging publication that rivals other, paper-based fiber arts magazines.
Now I am also co-administrator for an international Fiber Arts group on Facebook, and have begun to do freelance work for organizations, helping them create a website, publish eNewsletters, develop and write blogs, and utilize social media to market and spread their message.
My professional background is in publishing; I am currently director for HRD Press, in Western Massachusetts, USA. I also will be teaching a week-long quilting class in the fall at Snow Farm that focuses on creating innovative quilts from traditional patterns.
Marcia Young, Founder & Editor
What You Will Find
The Valley Fiber Life experience is richer and more varied than you will find in paper-based magazines; new stories are published on an ongoing basis and all content remains on the site, so you can always return to find that one artist, idea or exciting photo that piqued your interest. The magazine is organized by 18 fiber arts-related categories. Many stories can be found in two or three areas, so you won't miss out on any content that feeds your passion.
This new room features work by both traditional and contemporary fiber artists. It is the first stop for visitors who don't have time to read articles, but still want their daily dose of fiber. More artists will be added each month. Imagine a gallery right in your neighborhood that exclusivey features fiber art - the Valley Fiber Life Artist Gallery is that place for you.
These sections are continuously being updated with new links and sources provided by VFL readers, contributors and writers. Visitors use the Resources or Blogs sections as a jumping off point for finding new ideas, suppliers, workshop destinations, or organizations.