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Genuine |
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The Genuine Cowichan Sweater |
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From Sheep to Sweater The genuine Cowichan Sweater is a unique creation of the North West Coast Salish Natives. Each one has the quality of a work of art, not only in design but also in craftsmanship. The Wool The soft, warm wool used in Genuine Cowichan Sweaters come from sheep raised on Vancouver Island. Fleece from breeds such as Dorset, Hampshire and Suffolk provide the entire natural colors used in authentic Cowichan Sweaters, from a creamy white through brown to black. The wool is lightweight and water resistant, producing a garment that is beautiful and functional. The Process Traditionally, the wool was washed, dried, hand teased and hand carded before being spun with a spindle whorl. Today most spinners obtain their carded wool from a local Native mill and spin it into a single strand on an Indian Head spinner. Treated properly, without the aid of chemical detergents, the wool retains its natural lanolin, the oil that gives it strength and integrity and makes the sweater both warm and water resistant. The Patterns The patterns in Genuine Cowichan Sweaters take their inspiration from the abundant and varied wild life on Vancouver Island, from the Eagle, Elk and Killer Whale to the Deer and the Bear. Other designs have been passed on through the families and some are taken from traditional Salish basketry and weaving motifs. Because each sweater is hand crafted, no two are exactly alike. Although the same motif may be used many times, the individuality of the knitters produces variations in form and color that enhance the unique nature of these remarkable statements of the Northwest Native Culture. |
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