About Us

40th Parallel Fiber Studio represents the merger of artistic vision, an attention to detail, and a passion for hand crafted textiles. 

Realizing that the vanishing American textile industry has its roots in cottage industry, the Eatons set out to offer what once was--durable, hand-woven textiles that are affordable and feel great. 

Laurie’s interest in textiles is a family tradition deeply rooted in her Pennsylvania German heritage.  Both her mother and grandmother were accomplished seamstresses and artists--Laurie valued that heritage and carried on her family tradition by seeking out ways to express her artistic leaning.  In the mid 1990's, Laurie was exposed to woven textiles, and her love for weaving was born.  Early on, basket weaving gave Laurie the opportunity to acquire basic weaving skills, but also lead her to become dear friends with Jean Wilson, an accomplished weaver.  The beauty of Jean’s floor loom in her rural Virginia studio ignited a passion in Laurie that lead to a promise; “someday, I’m going to do that!”. 

A visit to western Ireland became the impetus for Laurie to keep that promise to herself. 

After returning from that first trip to the Connemara, Laurie acquired her first floor loom.  The weaving Laurie began was a reflection of her fondness for the past.  When her hobby evolved into a full time love, Laurie established 40th Parallel Fiber Studio--now a thriving small business, dedicated to producing quality woven goods at an affordable price.

40th Parallel Fiber Studio , copyright @ 2009