Beginner

Marceline Smith

Spinning

Have you dabbled in drop spindle spinning as a beginner, and now you’re looking to take the next steps toward improved techniques and more consistent handspun yarn? Let’s practice and play together! I’d love to teach you how to make progress in a few important areas so you can get the handspun yarn you want from your spindle. This Next Steps spinning class covers theory and hands-on application. We’ll build on some foundation knowledge, expand your fiber prep techniques, practice unsupported spindle management, and build good drafting skills. You’ll practice fiber management for more consistent drafting, work on controlling twist, learn good body positions for sustainable spinning, and learn the Andean Plying Bracelet method for plying a 2-ply yarn. In a relaxed atmosphere, I’ll work with each student to learn, practice, and repeat the techniques. I’ll demonstrate the many ways we can work with different fiber formats and encourage you to sample and squish some too! Students in this class do not need prior experience with drop spindle spinning. You’ll receive all required supplies for your in-class project, and you can try your hands at different spindles and fibers—you might find a new favorite. I’ll help you troubleshoot and correct common issues and share tips for getting to a more consistent final yarn. Students for this class should already have practiced drop spindle spinning to some degree and be familiar with basic fiber formats like roving and top. You should be familiar with the parts of a drop spindle and how they are used to create single and 2-ply yarns. Our focus will be to form good spinning habits for your body and your budget! Then you’ll take home your own handspun yarn! This class is appropriate for beginners with some drop spindle spinning experience and will accommodate those with moderate to high physical mobility.

A class fee of $15 USD will cover your in-class practice materials and workshop hand-outs.

Saturday