Rediscovering Experimental Art Yarn

Hi everyone!

It’s been over a decade since I recorded an art yarn method-focused video series (now on YouTube), and I’m thinking about a new art yarn experimental series and I need your input.

Art yarn in the early 2000s was not just about making a prettier yarn. It was a revolution: an avant-garde, whimsical, and counter-cultural movement that challenged the idea of what yarn was supposed to be. The yarn was the finished artwork, whether or not it could ever be knit, woven, or function like a conventional yarn.

Over time, the art yarn world has shifted toward beautiful, handspun yarns with interesting textures that can function as usable knitting and weaving materials. There is absolutely a place for that craft, but I miss the wilder, more experimental spirit of art yarn: incorporating unconventional objects, embracing imperfection, breaking the rules, and creating something that doesn't need to become anything else.

This brings me to my idea for a new video series: incorporating unexpected and novelty objects into yarn. I haven't seen this explored lately in the fiber community, and I am wondering if there might be interest. Think "junk journal" but as an art yarn. Think "grannycore" but with actual meaningful bits (buttons, old fabric, lace, a spoon, a thimble, a recipe card) all spun into a skein.

Before I start planning the videos, I'd love your feedback!

How do you feel about embellishments? Would you enjoy seeing unusual objects (miniatures, collectibles, antiques, or oddities), or unexpected materials (horsehair, shredded paper, glitter, fossils) incorporated into yarns?

Would you enjoy following the process? From gathering inspiration and selecting fibers and junk to blending, spinning, and revealing the finished skein?

Would you purchase videos that teach experimental art yarn techniques? I plan to offer the full lessons for sale on my website, with sneak peeks, short demos, and plenty of inspiration shared for free on social media.

I'd really appreciate hearing your ideas before I start developing the series.

Ashley Martineau
Neauveau Fiber Arts
Where fiber becomes art.