Welcome to Flatirons Fiberworks!
The purpose of this site is to share knowledge and inspiration about handspun handknits and encourage you to work with me to create your own special heirloom or a memorable gift.
Stroll through the Photo Gallery to get a sense of the many things I’ve made over the years, whether hat, shawl/scarf, sweater (for human or precious pup), teddy bear, or cozy afghan, and drop me a note with questions or ideas to see if we can start designing your unique item. No two items are ever the same, so you won’t meet yourself walking down the street! Everything is hand made by me, just for you. Only two major commissions accepted per year.
It’s important to know something about what goes into handspun handknits.
- It takes a minimum of 20 hours to spin enough yarn for a sweater
- It takes 40 to 60 hours to knit a sweater, depending on size and complexity of the design
- A simple sweater would cost about $1,800 plus materials (usually $60-80, depending on how exotic the fibers are), similar for a large lace shawl, which is fussy to knit. A large or complex sweater, like an Aran (fisherman knit) would be at least $2,400. A man’s medium vest, $1,200.
- The fun cloche hats you’ll see here would be about $200, including materials.
- Bags range from $200 to $500, depending on size and complexity.
- Cowls $200 to $400, again depending on complexity and size. Teddy Bear, $250, knitted roses $50 each.
- I don’t charge for consultation time.
You can sign up for periodic updates that will include seasonal ideas, new products, etc. Want a sweater or hat in your team colors?
Some already made items are available for sale on Etsy.com, where my shop is “FlatironsFiber“, and are described as such.
Let’s work together!
ABOUT ME
I have been knitting for over 60 years and spinning since 1990. My mother taught me a bit of knitting as a child, and I began learning to spin while on an educational sabbatical visit to New Zealand, where sheep outnumber people seven to one. My professional career was in college administration at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and now I live in beautiful Boulder, Colorado, where I can see the flatiron formation of the foothills of the Rockies out my window. Because I lived in a passive solar house in the woods of Pennsylvania, my former business name was “Forest House Fiberworks.” Now that I’ve relocated, it’s “Flatirons Fiberworks.”
I never expected to become a handspinner, but I was invited to visit a group of Christchurch, New Zealand, ladies who met every Friday, and after a few weeks, the convener asked me if I’d like to “have a go” at spinning. She loaned me a wheel and showed me how to hand-comb fleece, and off I went. One never finishes learning this craft.
It’s been an odyssey of learning about types of sheep and their fiber. Learning that one doesn’t buy a batch of dyed fiber just because “it’s pretty.” Learning about different preparation methods and the impact they have on the finished product. Learning about other spinnable fibers and materials like silk, camel, yak, qviut (musk ox), bison, bamboo, ingeo (corn), and even tissue paper.
Things I've Made
These products encompass a range of apparel, accessories, and home goods, all hand spun and hand knitted with meticulous care and attention to detail. Each item is crafted to be unique and exclusive, reflecting the dedication to quality and craftsmanship that defines Flatirons Fiberworks.
TESTIMONIALS
These products encompass a range of apparel, accessories, and home goods, all hand spun and hand knitted with meticulous care and attention to detail. Each item is crafted to be unique and exclusive, reflecting the dedication to quality and craftsmanship that defines Flatirons Fiberworks.
My friend Ruth is several parts of a
Sheep-to-shawl event all on her own!
Certainly, she spins and knits. I'm the
Lucky recipient of one of her brilliant
Shawlettes. It is lavender, purple and
Black. I wear it to work in the hospital.
I particularly wear this piece of delicate
Beauty when I know it will be a challenge.
Saturday was one of those days because
Friday was one of those nights. Seventeen
Traumas came home to roost. I was not
Working Friday, but I was working on
Saturday...and oh...It was a mess. So I
Passed Peace and comfort in my purple shawl.
Ruth Burnham is an amazing spinner and knitter. Her magnificent designs and the care she takes with her work bring each piece she creates into the realm of Fine Art. There is a deeply personal touch in everything she makes. Whether a gift for someone dear to you or a commissioned piece meant just for you yourself, you will never be disappointed and always be surprised by her fine work.
I cannot adequately express my gratitude for and satisfaction with the scarf Ruth did forme. From the research she did to the fiber I chose, she was professional and patient with me. The end result is a scarf my wife will treasure and it will instantly become a family heirloom. Highly recommend Ruth to everyone looking for a handmade item. You will be overwhelmed by the beauty she creates
My friend Ruth is several parts of a
Sheep-to-shawl event all on her own!
Certainly, she spins and knits. I'm the
Lucky recipient of one of her brilliant
Shawlettes. It is lavender, purple and
Black. I wear it to work in the hospital.
I particularly wear this piece of delicate
Beauty when I know it will be a challenge.
Saturday was one of those days because
Friday was one of those nights. Seventeen
Traumas came home to roost. I was not
Working Friday, but I was working on
Saturday...and oh...It was a mess. So I
Passed Peace and comfort in my purple shawl.
"A spinner and knitter of the highest caliber, Ruth's work is flawless!"
"I am the delighted owner of a piece made by Ruth. The exquisite craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail result in a beautiful one-of-a-kind piece. Every time I wear it I receive genuine compliments."
“Everything Ruth Burnham knits is gorgeous and unique. Her talent is amazing.”
Ruth Burnham is an amazing spinner and knitter. Her magnificent designs and the care she takes with her work bring each piece she creates into the realm of Fine Art. There is a deeply personal touch in everything she makes. Whether a gift for someone dear to you or a commissioned piece meant just for you yourself, you will never be disappointed and always be surprised by her fine work.
I’ve made at least three sweaters using your handspun yarn. It was a joy knitting with your yarns and the finished product was wonderful.
I have commissioned three mini-shawls (shawlettes) from Ruth. She worked with me to decide on colors, sending photos at each step. They were gifts for family members, and each recipient was delighted with her unique present.
"Ruth will not only make what you want in the colors you like, but she will put a little of your own personality into it. Everything is made with Love. "