Selvedge Recommends: The Nettle Dress Film
The Nettle Dress: Weaving Stories of Nature and Resilience
When you think of nettles, what comes to mind? Perhaps the sharp, itchy sting of a stem brushing a bare ankle on a woodland walk, a steaming cup of nettle tea, or the earthy comfort of homemade nettle soup? This ubiquitous weed, often overlooked or avoided, takes on an extraordinary new significance in Allan Brown and Dylan Howitt’s film The Nettle Dress.
This independent documentary is more than a tale of textiles. It’s a meditation on craftsmanship, sustainability, and the intimate bond between maker and material. At the heart of the story is Allan Brown, a textile artist who embarks on a seven-year journey to craft a dress entirely from foraged nettles. Through his meticulous process, the film weaves a narrative of healing and resilience, mirroring Brown’s personal journey of grief and renewal.
Nettles, often dismissed as a nuisance, are revealed in the film as an abundant, versatile resource with a rich history in textile production. Historically, nettle fibre has been used in clothing and fishing nets, valued for its strength and durability. Brown’s project breathes new life into this ancient craft, demonstrating its relevance in today’s world of fast fashion and ecological crisis.
The film captures the painstaking 7 year process of harvesting, retting, spinning, and weaving over 14,000 feet of nettle fibres. Each step is performed by Brown himself with a reverence for the material and its origins. The labour-intensive nature of the work is juxtaposed with the tranquility of the natural landscapes where Brown gathers his nettles; a contrast that highlights the harmony between human effort and the natural world.
Brown’s journey is deeply personal. He began the project as a way to process his grief after the loss of his wife, finding solace in the repetitive, meditative acts of making. The film, directed by Dylan Howitt, sensitively portrays this emotional undercurrent, inviting viewers to reflect on the therapeutic power of creativity and connection to nature.
Visually, The Nettle Dress is a feast for the eyes. The cinematography immerses the audience in the textures and hues of nettles and textiles, from the vibrant green of fresh plants to the soft, earthy tones of the finished fabric. These visuals are accompanied by a thoughtful soundtrack that enhances the film’s contemplative mood.
For textile enthusiasts, the film is an inspiring exploration of a craft that blends traditional techniques with modern sustainability ideals, creating something meaningful from the simplest of materials. In an era dominated by mass production and disposable fashion, The Nettle Dress is a poignant reminder of the value of slowing down, honouring our resources, and finding beauty in the ordinary. Through his dedication and artistry, Allan Brown has transformed an unassuming weed into a symbol of strength, creativity, and hope, that encourages us to appreciate the stories embedded in the fabrics we wear.
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