Leona Jayne Page, Rusty Ferret Dyer and owner of Fluph in Dundee

It’s a chatty and fun episode today with the enigmatic Leona Jayne Page of Rusty Ferret/Fluph. Voted back onto the show as a guest for the second time, Leona tells us about how she moved from yarn shop owner into hand dyer. You can hear the first appearance by Leona on the show in this episode, where she talks about moving from forensic psychobiology to yarn.

Rusty Ferret

Who is Rusty Ferret?

Rusty Ferret was, when we last met Leona, in the closet as a ‘local dyer’. Well, the worst kept secret in knitting was uncovered. Leona was revealed as the dyer behind Rusty Ferret. Rusty is a steampunk gentleman and Leona is kind of his handler. Inspiration for her colour ways is found everywhere. Leona has a particular love for the saturated and neon colours.

Much excitement ensued at the news of subscription boxes and new yarn lines. Polwarth is championed as one of the yarn bases Leona stocks. She described in detail how she came to decide to use this particular fibre, and its benefits for both dyeing and creating garments.

Image Copyright Leona Jayne Page.

Since the last episode, Leona married her now husband Mark. Never one to be shy and retiring, here she is rocking the sequins on the big day.

Leona does Wedding Chic. Image Copyright Leona Jayne Page.

DPNs vs Magic Loop, Commercial Yarns vs Hand Dyed Yarns

We cover a number of other topics in this episode. Commercial yarns sparked some debate, as whilst they are affordable and uniform, I consider them to be a little bit boring. DPNs vs magic loop for knitting in the round had leona and I on opposing sides of the fence. I like DPNs! The economics of Primark clothing was another topic covered. Ever fancied getting into Art School? Leona has the scoop on that, too. Apparently it’s all about being able to do ‘mark making’, and doesn’t require the ability to actually draw.

Fluph Rusty Ferret Minis

You can find everything about Leona at http://www.fluph.co.uk

Music for this episode is used with kind permission of Adam and the Walter Boys, with ‘I Need a Drink’, available via iTunes.