spinPossible: Spinning for Sweaters
Instructor: Michael Kelson
Required Skills: Successful students will have a good working relationship with their spinning wheels, be able to spin a consistent single, and have some experience plying and finishing yarn.
Class Description: Are you ready to tackle your first sweater-spin?
There are many factors that we, as spinners, should consider as we embark on our first sweater spin. The core characteristics of the fiber (e.g., crimp, fineness, hand, prep) will influence the choices we make in spinning and the fabric in our final garment.
This class will explore several fibers that might be great choices for your sweater. We’ll take a look at fibers you’re probably familiar with (Merino, Rambouillet, BFL), some blends (Shetland/Silk, Merino/Yak/Silk), and some fibers that might be new to you (Romney, Cheviot, Manx Loaghtan).
We will work on diameter control and consistency, plying and finishing techniques, and how to evaluate your final yarn to make sure you’ll have the perfect fabric for the sweater of your dreams.
Skills you will learn:
- How to assess characteristics of different fibers for the garment you have in mind
- Techniques for consistency and diameter control
- How to choose the appropriate draft for your fiber (worsted, woolen, semi-woolen)
- Strategies for plying, finishing, and swatching
- Evaluating your final fabric
Students Should Bring to Class:
- A spinning wheel in good working condition
- Extra bobbins
- Notebook
- Lazy Kate (if you have one)
- Bring any tools you might like to use (hand cards, mini combs) and any fiber you would like to practice with.
Supplies Provided by Instructor (included in the Materials Fee): Materials used in class.
Day: Saturday
Time: 9:30 – 12:30
Cost: $58 (includes $15 materials fee)