Historical Information

• John Mercer

  Mercerization is a process developed by John Mercer (read more!) in the mid 1800s. By soaking the cotton yarn or cloth in caustic soda (lye), the cotton fibers swell, becoming round rather than flat. The hollow space that is created can then accept dye or other liquids more easily. If the mercerized cotton is stretched during this process, the fibers become straight and smooth, creating a beautiful shine.

• The Bergmans

  Margaret & John Bergman invented the amazing folding Bergman loom, and Margaret was a prominent weaver, teacher, and supported the regrowth of weaving in the Pacific Northwest.