Paula Lishman
I got to know about Paula Lishman on my honeymoon in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1984. I was stunned by the crocheted ponchos still in her line today. Crocheted in many variations and colors, they are eternally stunning. 
Paula Lishman's exclusive, patented yarn is made from genuine fur pelts -- sheared beaver, fox, mink, and muskrat. The pelts are hand cut into a narrow strip, which are reinforced with color-matching cotton and twisted such that the fur hair is forming a swirl around the core. The fur at this point is called yarn. It is dyed in an astounding assortment of sensuous color.
It has now also become available as yarn for the knitter and crocheter, in kits. Over 25 years of research and refinements have resulted in an unparalleled, washable fur yarn.
We now see a touch of fur being added to many designs. It has truly entered the imagination of crafters and couture aficionados alike.
Designs are available custom made at boutiques across Canada and the United States.
Paula Lishman designs are shown on runways globally.
We had Paula Lishman as a guest at the Knitter's Studio for just a short while before her trek to
Carmel, California. Augustine’s in Carmel has been successfully carrying her ready mades for easily 20 years. I was privileged to see and try many of Paula's creations, but also 100% sable and mink coats. Paula's coats are light weight and as luxuriously furry on the inside as they are on the outside.
Paula and I met at the Vogue Knitting 25th anniversary party, for which I designed the infamous "operatic coat." I used the fox fur, and Paula tells me that there are 15 people who are making this coat already, in addition to the 3 enthusiasts I met at the tradeshow.
We became instant friends. Paula is more fascinating than her furs or designs can live up to. Then again, they probably are as esoteric, because of Paula's inimitable character. We spoke about a trunkshow at the Knitter's Studio. Given that she will not be back soon enough, we will have a small trunkshow of our own, with kits, stories and techniques. We will have the catalogue, fur yarn and color swatches and some finished items handy for everyone's inspiration. I, of course, want the Chanel suit. Keep a close eye on your invitation this winter.
Lots of information on yarn,color, shows and more is available in the Paula Lishman company newsletters.
We have used only the smallest amount of photos on the Paula Lishman site. The colors, clothes, creations are stunning. Well worth an hour or two spent dreaming
great, FUR. just what we need to encourage further cruelty to animals...
i have no beef with fur yarn created from recycled furs since goddess knows there's a lot of them out there, but this makes me want to completely throw up. i will CEASE to patronize any business that provides fur products.
with a bit more vocalizing about this around the web, i'm sure a lot of other knitters will as well.
Posted by: dori | February 14, 2008 at 04:40 PM
Not only is the method of obtaining the yarn cruel and the message you're sending inhumane, but the yarn itself is pretty ugly. :(
Posted by: angrycupcake | March 16, 2009 at 08:11 PM
I need 75 grams of Sheared Beaver yarn and 25 grams of Cotton Slub. Can you help me?
Posted by: Nancy Chandler | June 27, 2009 at 09:54 AM