By Olivia Gilbert
If you have an affinity for vibrant prints, enjoy combining various patterns to create a unique style, and embrace a funky fashion sense, then ‘Ludwig and Tillie’ is the ideal booth for you at the Farmers Market, held on Saturdays at the east end of downtown Pagosa Springs.
This creative haven takes its name from Rita Willmott’s maternal great-grandparents. Rita, the proprietor of Ludwig and Tillie, acquired her sewing skills from her mother during her upbringing on her family’s farm. The passion for sewing ignited a spark in her that she would carry with throughout her life.
Rita transitioned into retirement two years ago, affording her the opportunity to immerse herself in the realm of fabrics and sewing. With a penchant for quilting during the winter months, she finds profound delight in working with fabrics. The symphony of the sewing machine captivates her, as she crafts usable items adorned with vivid colors.
Previously employed in the printing industry, Rita found her true calling in manipulating vibrant fabrics, as their endurance outlasts ink on paper. This craft not only reconnects her with cherished memories of her childhood and mother but also rejuvenates her inner child. Rita’s fabric selection boasts the epitome of quality, sourced from distinguished quilt shops. Among these, her personal favorite is the renowned Fat Quarter shop based in Texas, celebrated for its extensive variety and superior fabric materials. Rita’s preferred medium is cotton due to its versatility and ease of manipulation.
A previous career in sales has endowed Rita with a love for social interactions. Participating as a vendor at the market provides her with the chance to encounter diverse individuals from various walks of life, which brings her immense joy. She revels in the opportunity to forge connections, expand her understanding, and reconnect with her hometown roots.
‘Ludwig and Tillie’ showcases a captivating array of handmade items bearing mesmerizing and colorful patterns, all masterfully created by Rita. From bucket hats and aprons to napkins, wallets, glasses cases, refillable journal covers, potholders, and adorable reusable bags – the assortment is boundless. Rita harbors a significant aspiration for her creations – to grace a Farm to Table dinner. This event gathers people around a grand table during harvest time to celebrate their agricultural achievements and the delectable produce that stems from their efforts. It stands as a splendid occasion of community, camaraderie, and shared agricultural abundance.
For those not captivated by textiles, Kris Willmott’s photography prowess might captivate your interest. Kris embarked on his photographic journey 16 years ago, ignited by a birdwatching escapade that revealed his liking for capturing avian beauty. His photography palette soon expanded to encompass all facets of nature.
Kris’s visual narratives originate from diverse locales such as Bayfield, Durango, Pagosa, Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska. The heart of his joy lies in knowing that each purchase of his work reflects the time, contemplation, and affection invested in each photograph. Every image he captures holds a story, be it about the process of capturing it or the creature featured within. Kris revels in sharing these anecdotes with those who admire his work, sparking conversations and connections. Photography serves as Kris’s portal to commune with nature on a personal level, enveloped in its serenity.
His solo escapades allow him to relish the tranquility while becoming attuned to the unique songs of various bird species. Beyond personal enrichment, his photographic ventures also offer opportunities to educate and enlighten others about the wonders of the natural world.
This summer marks Kris and Rita’s second year gracing the Pagosa Farmer’s Market, a serene atmosphere they deeply cherish. Although they reside in Bayfield, the journey to Pagosa is a delight they eagerly anticipate, driven by the diverse and vibrant individuals they encounter. The allure of Pagosa’s tourism scene stems from the enriching conversations and interactions they savor with the multitude of people they meet.
We are excited to share that our offer for SNAP card users will be ongoing until the market concludes. Here’s how it works: Spend $20 using your SNAP card, and you’ll receive an additional $20 in Double-Up Bucks from Nourish Colorado, absolutely free. This means you can enjoy a delightful variety of fresh vegetables, eggs, and baked goods at no extra cost. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity! Join us at the SOS booth every Saturday from 9am to 1pm until September 30 to make the most of this amazing deal.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Southwest Organization for Sustainability (SOS), the town of Pagosa Springs, and the Pagosa Tourism board for their invaluable support of the Market. For more information call 970-264-5232 or email pagosafarmersmarket@gmail.com
Olivia Gilbert is the Pagosa Springs Farmers Market coordinator.