2017 Stitches United Rya Rug Making Workshop in Hartford Connecticut
It is a little embarrassing to say, “Hey, got any praises you can sing for me?” But in truth, I am looking for your kind, but earned, words of recommendation that I can use to improve my new website which is in the developmental stages.
As I was working with my book designer, Ken Koons, in designing the back cover, we realized that many successful books list great reviews which help give confidence to the person trying to decide if they want to buy the book or not. We figured we’d probably just add rave reviews on the 2nd edition. So who knows where your testimonials will turn up?
Feel free to post your comments below in the Leave a Reply section. As always, you may not see it posted for several hours, so don’t feel like your comment was “lost in space” if you don’t see it right away. Brief comments sharing your personal experience as to how I was able to help you with your projects are best.
I’d love to hear from my former students, designers, beginners, accomplished rya artists, long-distance internet buddies, everyone with a story to share.
I thank you in advance. It has always been a pleasure and an honor to help you.
~ Melinda
Melinda Byrd is such a creative individual. She is always there to help and encourage you when needed. Her love of this art, Rya Rugs is her passion and it is her quest to revive the Art of Making Rya Rugs. I was captivated when I discovered Rya Rugs and was so happy that I found Melinda Byrd, an expert on this beautiful art. After working on my first Rya Rug; it inspired me so much that I wrote a poem about Rya Rugs for Melinda.
Melinda is a true artist.
Thank you, Faith. You were the first and only to send me a poem. I’m trying to locate it now. very kind words. Thank you.
Melinda is a knowledgable resource for all topics rya, and this new book encompasses her background and experience. A ‘must read’ for all rya artisans.
Wow, thank you, Paul!
And some kind folks have sent their testimonials to me via email. So I don’t lose them, I will copy them here to keep them together. Thank you so much. **blush**
Joanna Dyson:
Byrdcall Studio is the place to go for any and all questions regarding rya, the archetypal Scandinavian textile art form. When I stumbled upon a vintage Finnish rya kit, Melinda was incredibly helpful and reassuring that it was indeed possible to make my ‘find’, despite the lack of any information in English and a doubt about the yarns that were included (she could supply anything I needed). I can’t recommend her enough.
Cynthia Slosson:
Mel’s passion for beauty, her art and nature is stellar. She inspires creativity and enthusiasm in the way she lives her life.
Blessings
I am a new “knotter” and have found Melinda able to answer all my varied and frantic calls for help. I love rya work and love Melinda for all the help she so willingly gives in a timely manner. She is a true “dictionary” for all things rya.
Wow, Ann, thank you! *big blush*
When I was given an old ryarug kit, I couldn’t find any help on how to knot a rya. And I live in Sweden! Then I found Melinda’s youtube-video and I contacted her and asked for help. I got so much more! A more helpful and kind and passionate person is hard to find! I am so grateful for all help, the encouragement and positive feedback I got from Melinda!
Now I need for her to come to Sweden and share her wisdom about ryamattor!
Thanks, Mia. You have been a special part of this journey for me. I am looking forward to visiting you in Sweden!
I am another new knotter. I stumbled on Byrdcall Studio and Melinda through a bit of serendipity. Her commitment to bringing back this art is clearly communicated and her patience in helping me, especially in calculating amounts of yarn and sizes of backings, is very much appreciated.
She is definitely filling a void.
Thank you so much, Catherine. It’s so nice to help people who are as interested as you are in rya. My pleasure. ~Melinda