Photo by LORETTA JACKSON Emily Weiss, left, head of reference services and interlibrary loan at the Bedford Public Library, extends thanks to Fiber Arts Fashion Show emcee Marci Richardson, owner of The Elegant Ewe, in Concord, before reflecting on the event, a fashion extravaganza that drew dozens of participants to walk the runway and show off their handmades.

Women from local towns and some from Massachusetts walked the runway to display their handmades at the Bedford Public Library during its fifth annual Fiber Arts Fashion Show.

The models at the event on April 3 flaunted apparel and accessories as they strutted the catwalk, a raised platform of two sections attributed in the program booklet to assistance from Kirk Fountaine of the Bedford DPW.

Organizer Emily Weiss, head of reference services and interlibrary loan, performed with Caitlin Loving, head of circulation, feats of organization that resulted in a smooth transition of the ladies showing off their creations or waiting in the wings.

The emcee of the evening was Marci Richardson, owner of The Elegant Ewe, a Concord destination for the crafty of many ilk. The shop, founded in 1998, offers supplies for all needle arts and hosts classes and trips. A September trip to Scotland for Shetland Wool Week already is fully booked.

“We go to Shetland for its wool,” said Richardson. “On one trip, a community scarf was in progress, with the scarf winding out of one room and into another as length was added to it by anyone who wished to do a bit of it.”

Leonora Isaak, of Bedford, displayed a tunic made from antique fabric. Her daughter, Elaine Isaak, unfurled a multi-layered “Cape of Legend” sewn in cotton and silk.

Elaine’s daughter, Laurel Nelson, of Nashua, – Leonora’s granddaughter – deconstructed, reworked and hand-painted three thrift-shop dresses into a purple ensemble of splendor. Shirley Michael, of Nashua, displayed a wrap in a blend of alpaca, wool and silk. Others were similarly impressive.

Gen Miller, treasurer of the Bedford Women’s Club, a local social and charitable organization, attended the show with several BWC members. Miller is the head of the club’s Knitting & Crocheting Group, one of many special interest groups. She modeled a draped poncho entitled, “Transient,” a flowing work in graduated shades of grey.

“I find it inspiring to see all the various crafts and projects people are working on,” Miller said. “Makes me want to start something new.”

Raiden Ferreira, of Bedford, had a showing by model Emily Weiss of a colorful kitchen apron rendered in a bright yellow print depicting rows of wine bottles. Co-organizer Loving, and her baby, Rosalind, made a runway debut. The child sported a hand-knit sweater rendered in a soft green.

Later, Kathryn Fleming, of Merrimack, shared with the audience a turquoise sweatshirt jacket hand-quilted in coordinated colors. Her colorful collection of Kanzashi – the art of Japanese fabric folding – was displayed on a table alongside felted purses, knitted dolls and a fancy, red, ribbed camisole.

Bedford Public Library Director Mary Ann Senatro was busied with photos and video duties. She and Weiss and Loving thanked all who attended.

“Mary Ann, Caitlin, and I love having the opportunity to showcase our talented community members’ amazing creations,” said Weiss. “This show would not be possible without their contributions.”

Information on upcoming events at the Bedford Public Library, 3 Meetinghouse Road, can be had online: bedfordnhlibrary.org.

Loretta Jackson may be contacted via email:

ljackson@nashuatelegraph.com