Designer Spotlight Blog Post – Jodi Ybarra
We here at Lunatic Fringe Yarns are honored to have been a part of the handweaving, spinning and fiber arts community for over 30 years. Over the years, we have met so many amazing people and watched our yarns go out into the world (even around the globe) to become wonderful cloth for garments, household items, art pieces and even fashion on the runway. As a small business, it has also been our pleasure to get to know and provide fiber and yarn for many other small business owners.
Jodi Ybarra at Cotton Clouds is one of those small business owners. Cotton Clouds stocks and uses our Tubular Spectrum™ and American Maid™ weaving yarns and spinning fibers in her kits and collections, and we are so happy to share her story with you!
Please note that all photos are used with Jodi's permission, and all the photos belong entirely to her.
Meet Jodi Ybarra!
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Jodi Ybarra, and I am the proud owner of Cotton Clouds. I’ve been with the company for over 30 years and became the owner a little more than four years ago. Weaving has always been my passion, and it’s been my lifelong dream to dedicate myself to this craft while building a supportive community of fellow weavers. I especially love designing projects for rigid heddle weavers and guiding those who are just beginning their weaving journey. There’s nothing more fulfilling than helping others discover the joy of weaving and watching their creativity come to life through fiber and color.
How Did You Get Started?
My journey in fiber arts began in 1985 when I took my first job while still in high school. Irene Schmoller, the original owner of Cotton Clouds, needed a young helper for her yarn shop in our small town. I had always loved crafts, so it felt like the perfect opportunity. The moment I saw all the beautiful cotton yarns, I knew I wanted to learn to weave. Irene gifted me my first rigid heddle loom, and that was the start of my lifelong passion for weaving.
What Looms Do You Use?
I weave on Ashford and Schacht rigid heddle looms, as well as a Baby Wolf 4-shaft loom. Each loom offers something special, and I love exploring different techniques and structures to create inspiring projects for weavers of all skill levels.
Special Tools for Weaving?
I don’t use many special tools, as I like to keep my weaving process simple and efficient. One technique I love is direct warping my rigid heddle looms. It’s a fast and easy method that allows me to get my projects set up quickly so I can focus on the weaving itself. This approach is especially great for beginners because it makes warping less intimidating and more accessible.
Favorite Weave Structure?
I love weaving houndstooth and log cabin—they both create such striking patterns with simple threadings. I also have a deep appreciation for plain weave because, with color and weave techniques, it can transform into something truly dynamic and visually interesting. Playing with color placement in a basic structure is one of my favorite ways to bring a design to life.
Favorite Lunatic Fringe Yarns Product?
I love the American Maid™ cotton yarns and EZ Spin™ Sliver that Lunatic Fringe Yarns offer. They weave and spin up beautifully, with a wonderful hand and texture, and I feel good about using them. There’s something special about working with high-quality natural fibers, especially when they align with sustainable practices. Cotton has always been my fiber of choice, and these yarns are perfect for creating durable, soft, and vibrant woven pieces.
Your Inspiration?
My fellow weavers are my biggest inspiration! Seeing creativity, dedication, and passion within the weaving community constantly motivates me. Whether it’s beginners discovering the joy of weaving for the first time or experienced weavers pushing the boundaries of design, their enthusiasm fuels my own creativity. I love being part of a community where we can learn from each other, share ideas, and celebrate the beauty of handmade textiles together.
Why Do You Weave?
I weave because it brings me joy, creativity, and a sense of connection with other weavers. I love the process of making something beautiful with my own hands. From the moment I threw my first shuttle, I knew weaving would be part of my life forever. There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming simple threads into something both functional and artistic.
What Else Are You Up To?
One of the ways I love to share my passion for weaving is through my monthly blog, where I offer a free weaving pattern for others to enjoy. It’s my way of giving back to the weaving community and inspiring fellow crafters to try new projects and techniques. I want weaving to feel accessible and exciting for everyone, whether they’re just starting out or have been weaving for years. Creating and sharing patterns allows me to connect with other weavers and encourages them to explore the possibilities of their looms. https://cottonclouds.com/blogs/news
Anything Else?
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my love of weaving with others!
Last Question...Cake or Pie?
Pie
Thanks Jodi!
Thank you for sharing with us! We can’t wait to see what you are up to next! Happy Weaving!
Cotton Clouds was one of my first inspirations for color-and-weave designs on my rigid heddle looms. Such a great team and always helpful, just like Lunatic Fringe Yarns. It was fun to read Jodi’s interview.
Thank you for putting the spotlight on Jodi this month. She always takes time to help and encourage her customers sharing their enthusiasm for weaving.
I have come a long way this year on my weaving journey and it’s mostly because of people like Jodi who are generous with their support. My very first multi shaft projects were Kits from her shop Cotton Clouds and from Lunatic Fringe that allowed me to learn different techniques like shadow weave and Advancing Twill with out having to break the bank for all the needed yarn.
Pie is definitely the right answer, best served with coffee and plenty of handwoven napkins made with American Maid yarns.