Roberts featured on 2012 Fall Festival Button

ROBERTS

Posted By: Mistina Christner (email)
Date: 7/9/2018 at 12:42:44

Source: The Kalona News 8/23/2012

Roberts featured on 2012 Fall Festival button
By Nick Pedley

One of the Kalona Fall Festival's most familiar faces will be on this year's festival button - Emily Roberts.
Roberts, 89, has decided to step away from the spinning wheel and loom demonstrations that have interested visitors to the Fall Festival since the 1970's. An avid spin-stress, Roberts began showcasing her skills when the annual celebration began over 40 years ago.
"It's been wonderful showing all the people how it used to be done," Roberts said. "But I think it's time."
Roberts began spinning yarn at a relatively young age after she took an interest in an old spinning wheel her aunt brought home. She didn't know how to use the self-powered machine at the time, but Roberts was curious and determined. She read about spinning in books and learned new techniques from others, but it was through trial and error that she gained the most experience in the art of spinning.
Roberts eventually began to incorporate her hand-spun fabrics into woven works on the loom. As her hobby gained steam, Roberts became the go-to person for locals seeking advice or guidance on spinning.
________________________________ated many pieces from her spinning wheels and looms. Rugs, place mats, blankets and other handmade works are splashed throughout her house. Her homemade pieces have made it into nearly every room in her home, a fact that both her and her husband Wayne take pride in.
"Spinning is nice because you get to see what you did and it lasts for a long time," observed Roberts. "Just getting it accomplished - it's very satisfying."
Spinning has brought Roberts many fond memories throughout the years. She recalled "spin-ins" where local women would gather to spin yarn and socialize at churches or anywhere that would let them in. While those get-togethers have faded in recent years, Roberts has continued to pursue her passion on her own time, but it hasn't come without its challenges.
In January, Roberts was diagnosed with dementia. Following advice from doctors and her own gut feelings, she's decided to scale back on some of her activities. Roberts said she's doing well and learning to cope with her illness.
"It's a challenge, but I'm doing so much better than I was before I knew what was going on with me," she said.
In addition to exhibiting her skills at the Fall Festival, Roberts is also the curator for the Kalona Historical Village Loom House. Though she's stepping away from both positions, she plans to keep spinning well into the future.
"Spinning has brought so much to my life," said Roberts. "I think I'll do it for as long as I can sit up, or at least as long as it's still fun."