For workshop group pricing, and a list of workshops, see the Workshop page.
This page is still under construction ... workshop descriptions are still be missing...
Workshop: Andean Spindling
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
So, how do the Andean natives spin yarn? Their very basic bottom whorl spindles and washed fleece are used to create durable yarns in livable quantities. We’ll cover their fiber, spinning methods, plying methods, and yarn management so you too can go and spin on a windy hillside ... or indoors.
If you already spin on spindles, you will have the opportunity to explore the drafting method used by the Andeans for a fast, strong yarn; and the fiber prep they use, washed fleece teased open and spun from the cloud.
Skill level: Adventurous beginner/Intermediate, able to spin a stable yarn on a spindle or a wheel (either one).
Participants bring: If you have some Andean spindles or other bottom whorl spindles you have questions about, feel free to bring them.
Provided: fiber (wool*) and PDF handout. Spindles for use in class.
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: A circle of chairs, one for each person. Carpet preferred but not mandatory. A table for samples and supplies.
Workshop: Blending Board Bonanza
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Blending Boards have opened up a world of possibilities for interesting yarns. Let's explore what sorts of yarns we can create with these fun tools. Texture, marl, stripe, pop - why yes, we can have it all! We will create a variety of rolags with these fun fiber prep tools.
In the 6-hour version of this workshop, we explore record-taking for reproducing rolags and woolen spinning.
This is a fun workshop for all level of spinners as it is accessible to all.
Skill level: Adventurous beginner -- you don't even need to be able to spin yet to enjoy this class and create some stash to feed your wheel.
Participants bring: A blending board and its accessories. If you don't have one, but do have a drum carder or hand cards, bring those, and two long dowels wider than your carder/handcards - straight, wood knitting needles US10-15 work great. Bring any fiber you have questions about or want to experiment with.
Provided: fibers (wool, llama, silk, mohair, angelina, and others*), handout (PDF)
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: 4' length of table per participant. Tables need to have squared edges clamps can be attached to. A chair for each participant. Two tables for samples and materials.
Workshop: Boucle!
Length: 3-6 hours*
Description:
Boucle yarns are the curly-haired redheads of spinning. You can't tell whether they are twisting left or right, and for good reason: the answer is yes! These yarns incorporate all directions in their creation, and give the spinner opportunities for self-expression not found in simple plied yarns.
We will explore first the loopiness we all think of as boucle, creating boucles from thread and singles. Then we will spin all parts of the boucle yarn, constructing boucle completely from scratch.
We discuss finishing and use of boucle yarns so you can design and create boucles for your next weaving or knitting projects.
In the full-day version of this class we explore alternative boucle constructions and how fiber affects the boucle. We will build boucles from non-traditional singles, using non-traditional fibers and non-traditional methods. Viva la nouveau boucle!
Participants should be comfortable spinning and plying on a wheel or e-spinner.
Participants bring: wheel or e-spinner (and extension cord or battery) in working condition with FOUR empty bobbins and a lazy kate. You may also bring any fiber you have questions about.
Provided: fiber (wool and others*), handout
Material fee: $8-16 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. A few spare tables that can be set up if needed for e-spinners.
Workshop: Combs Combs Combs
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Combing provides top, the perfect worsted preparation for long wools, alpaca, and llama fibers. These prickly tools can also be used to create interesting blends and marls. Let's explore their proper and outside-the-box use to see the range of tops we can create. We will explore hand combs, English combs, hackles, and Russian combs.
Skill level:Some fiber or carding experience useful.
Participants bring: If you have them, bring handcombs or a hackle and their accessories (clamps and diz). If you have particular fibers of your own to ask about, feel free to bring them. I have 8 sets of mini-combs to share around the room and several larger combs and a hackle for participants to take turns.
Provided: fibers (wool, alpaca, silk, and others*), handout.
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs enough for each person, 3' table space per student and 2 tables for samples and fiber.
Workshop: Cotton on the Charka
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Cotton is a terrific fiber to explore to expand your spinning skills, and the charka is a wonderfully portable and efficient cotton spinning device. You will learn about the types of cotton available, the different preparations, and how to spin it on the charka. We will explore Indian book charkas with their little extras, though you are welcome to use any type of charka.
This is a great first way to explore long draw spinning, and a terrific pre-cursor to spinning that king of fibers, cashmere. As I was told when I started -- learn to spin cotton, and you will never waste a bit of cashmere. Charkas are excellent tools to master for spinning laceweight and cobweb yarns in cotton, cashmere, yak, and other fine, short staple fibers. The charka is a wonderfully efficient cotton spinning device, and the book charka is amazingly portable. This invention by Mahatma Gandhi revolutionized India one quill-full at a time.
Learning to spin on the charka takes your spinning to new heights -- you learn long-draw with the butter-soft drafting of cotton. We will explore Indian book charkas with their little extras, though you are welcome to use any type of charka.
This is a great first way to explore long draw spinning, and a terrific pre-cursor to spinning that king of fibers, cashmere. As I was told when I started -- learn to spin cotton, and you will never waste a bit of cashmere. Charkas are excellent tools to master for spinning laceweight and cobweb yarns in cotton, cashmere, yak, and other fine, short staple fibers.
Skill level: This workshop can be approached by any adventurous spinner who can spin a continuous yarn on a spindle or on a wheel. If you bring no prior spinning experience, bring a cup of patience to drink as you learn and a baggie of treats to reward your successes.
Participants bring: You do need to have a charkha to take this workshop. I have a limited number available to rent ($5 rental fee). Check before registering if you need to rent one. Feel free to bring any fibers or spinning tools you have a question about. Bring a sense of adventure and a desire to expand your fiber and wheel paintbox.
Provided: cotton (cotton*)
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 12 *
Room setup:
Workshop: Cotton on the Tahkli
Length: 3 hours *
Description:
Cotton is a terrific fiber to explore to expand your spinning skills, and the tahkli is a wonderfully efficient support spindle -- the combination is a "whirl" of fun! In this workshop, we explore spinning cotton on the tahkli spindle. You will learn about the types of cotton available, the different preparations, and how to spin it on the tahkli. This is a great first way to explore long draw spinning, and a terrific pre-cursor to spinning that king of fibers, cashmere. As I was told when I started -- learn to spin cotton, and you will never waste a bit of cashmere.
Skill level: This is usually taken by spinners who have mastered the top-whorl or bottom-whorl spindle, but can be approached by any adventurous spinner who can spin a continuous yarn on a spindle or on a wheel.
Participants bring: If you have a tahkli and bowl already, feel free to bring them, and any fibers or spindles you have questions about. Bring a sense of adventure and a desire to expand your fiber paintbox.
Provided: fiber (cotton*) and handout. Tahklis for use during class.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 15 *
Room setup: 4' of table space and a chair for each participant. A table for class supplies.
Workshop: Designing Blends
Length: 3 hours*
Description: With a goal in mind, you can design a blend rather than randomly combining fibers on your drum carder to see what works. In this workshop, we look at fiber properties and blend goals, and create planned blends. Wool, silk, angora, alpaca, mohair - each fiber has its own traits. See why we blend and how fibers change a blend. We will test-blend on handcards and then make our final blends on drum carders. You will take your batt home for its final test: spinning into yarn or felting into fabric. Gain an understanding of blends that will have you looking at fiber in a new way.
Skill level: Intermediate. Spinners and Felters both welcome. You should have experience with a variety of fibers already, either alone or in blends. Carding experience is helpful.
Participants bring: If you have them, bring handcards and a drum carder. I have 6 pairs of handcards and 3 drum carders to share around the room. If you have particular fibers of your own to ask about, feel free to bring them. Participants should come prepared with an initial goal for their blend, that is, a finished item for which their blend would be optimal.
Provided: handout, fiber (wool* and add-ins), some hand carders to share and 3 drum carders available to rent.
Material fee: $10 *
Maximum participants: 20
*
Room setup: chairs enough for each person, and 4' table space per student for drum carders. Possibly a power source, if someone brings an electric carder.
Topics: wool, blends, alpaca, angora, silk, mohair, drum card, hand cards, fiber prep, intermediate, spin, felt
Workshop: Drum Carding A-Z (also called Get Batty!)
Length: 3-6 hours*
Description:
Drum Carding is a great way to create airy batts from fleece for amazing spinning, and to make unique blends of fiber, color, and texture. We'll explore all of this and more in this packed workshop, and you will take home several batts to enjoy at your wheel or spindle.
Batts made include: wool from fleece, blending fibers, adding texture, blending colors, and striping. We use both washed fleece and commercial top as well as a variety of add-in fibers.
In the 6-hour version of this workshop, we explore record-taking for reproducing batts and additional batt-making methods.
This is a favorite workshop for all level of spinners as it is accessible to all.
Skill level: Adventurous beginner -- you don't even need to be able to spin or felt yet to enjoy this class and create some stash to feed your wheel. Felters will also enjoy exploring the techniques used in the workshop.
Participants bring: A drum carder in working condition. Three drum carders are available for rent ($5) if you do not have your own. Contact me to reserve one. If you have fleece or fiber you have questions about, feel free to bring it along.
Provided: fibers (wool, llama, silk, mohair, angelina, and others*), handout (PDF)
Material fee: $14 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: 4' length of table per participant. Tables need to be clampable, as most drum carders have clamps. A chair for each participant. Two tables for samples and materials.
Workshop: Efficient Weaving on the Rigid Heddle (formerly Weave Now!)
Length: 6 hours* (can be taught as 2 3 hour sessions)
Description: Learn efficient weaving methods on the rigid heddle loom. We warp, weave, and complete a neck warmer or short scarf in this workshop. Project planning lets you stop guessing about how much yarn you need, as well as shortcuts to use the yarn you have. You will learn how to weave smooth edges, handle warp breaks gracefully, and quickly fix any mistakes you find once your fabric is off the loom. We explore how to get from yarn to scarf with efficient yarn handling throughout the process. You complete this workshop with new or improved weaving skills and a neck warmer!
When taught as two sessions, we meet one week to get started; then you will take your loom home to finish the weaving portion, and return a week later to finish the scarf on the loom, remove it, fringe and do final finishing.
Skill level: Participants can be new to weaving or have previous weaving experience.
Participants bring: a rigid heddle loom (any width, minimum 9") with an 8 dent reed, a warping peg, a sleying hook, brown paper cut to the width of the loom (enough pieces to total 6' in length), an empty paper towel core, a stick shuttle, scissors, T-pins or similar, 6 ounces of yarn that is light worsted weight (12-14 wraps per inch), and a small amount of another yarn that is the same diameter as your scarf yarn [preferably a different color; it isn't in the finished item]. If you don't have an 8 dent reed (4 slots and 4 holes per inch), contact the instructor at ask@thebellwether.com for help choosing a yarn.
If you need to rent a loom, contact the instructor at ask@thebellwether.com. There is a 5$ fee for this, and you need to still bring brown paper cut to the width of the loom (enough pieces to total 6' in length), an empty paper towel core, scissors, T-pins or similar, 6 ounces of yarn that is light worsted weight (12-14 wraps per inch), and a small amount of another yarn that is the same diameter as your scarf yarn [preferably a different color; it isn't in the finished item].
Provided: PDF handout via email.
Material fee: $0 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: There needs to be enough room for warping the looms, a 6' length for each student between loom-on-a-table and warping peg. This can limit the maximum size. Each student needs about 3-4' of table space depending on their loom width, a chair, and for warping, about 6' of space in front of the table. I place the tables 6' apart, and we put our warping pegs on the table 6' away from the loom.
Workshop: Exotic Fiber Spindling
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Exotic Fibers are best suited for lace weight spinning. Techniques from Akha spindling are a great way to get a grasp on the fibers. We will explore camel, yak, and cashmere or Ahka and featherweight spindles.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a suspended spindle (top-whorl or bottom-whorl).
Participants bring: Bring an adventurous spirit! Spindles are supplied for use on class, but if you already have Ahka or featherweight spindles, feel free to bring them. You are welcome to bring any fiber or spindles you want to ask questions about.
Provided: fiber (cashmere, yak, camel *), PDF handout
Material fee: $12 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: A circle of chairs, one per participant plus one. Carpet preferred, but not mandatory. Two tables, for samples and class supplies.
Workshop: Fantastic Fringes (formerly Fourteen Fringes)
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Have you learned only one or two fringe techniques? Looking for a new twist on ending your scarf? Let's explore over a dozen fringes and several tips for better fringing. This class requires no previous fringing experience, and can be used by weavers & knitters alike. Bring your current unfringed project for suggestions and recommendations while you create a fringe sampler in class.
Skill level: Beginner.
Participants bring: if you have them, bring: scissors, fringe twister, rotary cutter and cutting mat. If not, extras will be available to use in class.
Provided: fringe sampler(wool*), handout
Material fee: $10 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs for all, 3 feet table space per participant, table for samples. A blackboard, whiteboard, or easel pad.
Workshop: Fleece to Yarn (formerly Fiber Processing Without Tools)
Length: 3 hours* (as a learn to spin class, 6 hours)
Description: Love fleece, but don’t have the budget for fiber processing tools? Find the thought of processing an entire fleece overwhelming? Learn how to choose a fleece, skirt, wash, and spin without further preparation. No carding, no combing. We will cover techniques to spin worsted to woolen with washed fleece, with just your hands. Reach the satisfaction of a yarn well spun from a gorgeous fleece. Participants should already be able to spin a consistent single: for advanced beginners to experienced spinners. Wheel, e-spinner, and spindle spinners welcome.
This is one of my signature workshops, focusing on my goal to make spinning accessible to everyone -- it takes very little to turn fleece into yarn, armed with the right skills and knowledge. This workshop shows you how!
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a single on their spinning tool. A beginner version of this workshop can be offered, it is a full day (6 hours).
Participants bring: spinning wheel or e-spinner in working condition with an empty bobbin, or spindles in several weights.
Provided: raw and washed fleece (wool*), handout
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: Two tables for supplies, chairs – one for each participant and one for the instructor. Enough space for everyone to sit comfortably in a spinning circle. Hot water or an electrical outlet to heat water for a fleece washing demo.
Topics: wheel, spindle, intermediate, wool, spin
Workshop: Inkle Loom 101
Length: 6 hours*
Description:
These portable looms are terrific for making bands and straps. We learn good foundations, starting with putting on our warp and then weaving our first bands on these looms. Prior weaving experience helpful, but not required.
Skill level: No prior weaving experience necessary.
Participants bring: Bring an inkle loom, 4 ounces 5/2 mercerized cotton or pearl crochet cotton (in several colors if you can), scissors, and a shuttle. Inkle looms available to rent, $10 fee collected in class.
Provided: resource list
Material fee: $0
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: tables with 4' space per participant plus one long table for instructor samples. chairs for participants and instructor.
Workshop: Navajo and Tahkli Spindles
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Although a globe apart, Navajo and Tahkli spindles share methods. Start with the large Navajo and familiar wool, then give the tiny dynamo Tahlki a spin with cotton. Both spindles use long draw and the right hand's natural inclination to twirl sticks clockwise.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type) or on a wheel.
Participants bring: If you have a a Navajo spindle or tahkli spindle and bowl(s), bring them. If you have fiber you have questions about on these spindles, bring it. Spindles will be available to use in the workshop, and fiber will be provided.
Provided: fiber (wool and cotton *). Spindles for use during the workshop.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: 3' table space per participant, chairs for each person, an additional table for supplies.
Workshop: Plying Basics
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Is plying tying you in a knot? Would you like to tame your singles and spin a truly balanced yarn? Learn what makes a yarn balanced, and how to control singles as you spin 2-ply, 3-ply, and 4-ply yarns. We address coping with broken singles and including the leftover longer bobbin's singles in your plying. Then we will discuss ways to ply from one bobbin to another and use it all up: plying from a center-pull ball and Navajo plying (chain plying).
There is homework before this class! You need to spin four bobbins (or center-pull balls) of fiber: These can be on bobbins if you have 1 more empty bobbins, or they can each be wound into center-pull balls. All should be Z-twist, with moderate twist. They can be the same color or different colors. One ball should be at least 1 ounce, the others can be 1/2 to 1 ounce. If this needs further explanation, contact me. The singles need to be thin enough to be plied through your wheel's orifice, but thick enough that you can see how they are plying fairly easily (i.e., not bulky and not laceweight).
Skill Level: Adventurous beginner to intermediate, able to spin a consistent single.
Participants bring: A spinning wheel in working condition, 1 empty bobbin and a lazy kate, and 4 1-ounce balls or bobbins of handspun singles spun clockwise (Z-twist). E-spinners are welcome, bring a charged battery or UL-rated grounded (3-prong) extension cord.
Provided: handout (PDF)
Material fee: $0 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: Chairs in a circle, table for samples. Power outlets and a spare table in case
there are e-spinners.
Workshop: Plying With Color (aka Color Whirl)
Length: 3-6 hours*
Description: Explore color in your spinning, create interesting color effects with space-dyed top. Are you looking to expand your spinning paintbox? Look at new ways to work with space-dyed roving or top to create unique yarns. The dyer gives you the paint, you decide what picture you want to create. Techniques include spinning to grist, coordinating a neutral, Navajo ply, fractal plying, faux cables, self-striping techniques, color in cables, and more. We will also explore color mixing, so you can better predict what your space-dyed top might become. Control the color, plan and create the result you want. Wheel and spindle spinners are both welcome.
The 6-hour workshop covers additional techniques.
Skill level: Intermediate. Participants should be able to spin a single and ply on the spinning tool they bring(wheel, e-spinner, spindles).
Participants bring: wheel or e-spinner (and extension cord or battery) in working condition with 3 empty bobbins and lazy kate (only 1 bobbin? bring 2 bowls and a ball winder if you have one); or 3 spindles in similar weights, a plying spindle, and a lazy kate or two mugs (only 1 spindle? bring a ball winder if you have one). Also if you have them, bring hand cards. You may also bring any space-dyed top you have questions about.
Provided: 2 ounce braid space-dyed wool top * and solid color wool roving. Handout.
Material fee: $10/$20 (3hr/6hr) *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: A circle of chairs with room for spinning wheels. Table for teaching samples. Carpet is nice to stop wheels from walking, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Ply New Yarns (aka A Spinner's Necklace, aka Plying Around)
Length: 3-6 hours*
Description:
Learn some new yarn construction methods while creating a spinner's necklace. Explore the use of S and Z to see the wide variety of yarns you can create just by changing wheel direction. We will create Cables, Hawsers, Italian Plies, Crepes, and more, and then turn our samples into a fun yarn necklace.
In the 6 hour version, more yarn constructions are explored and new yarn constructions are developed.
There is homework before this class! You need to spin three balls of fiber: 1/2 ounce of singles with moderate Z twist (clockwise twist), a second 1/2 ounce the same color also with moderate Z twist, and 1/2 ounce of singles in a different color with moderate S twist (counterclockwise twist). These can be on 3 bobbins if you have 2 more empty bobbins, or they can each be wound into balls. You do need 2 balls of the Z twist singles. If this needs further explanation, contact me. The S and Z twist singles should be distinct colors so you can see the results well when you ply. The singles need to be thin enough to be plied through your wheel's orifice. The fiber used should be comfortable to wear as a necklace, I usually do this class with merino or something similarly soft.
Skill Level: Adventurous, and able to spin a consistent single and ply a balanced yarn. This is a great class for intermediate spinners looking to expand beyond 2-ply and 3-ply, or an adventurous beginner with a few skeins under your belt already and curious about the possibilities.
Participants bring: A spinning wheel in working condition, 2 empty bobbins and a lazy kate, and 3 1/2 ounce balls or bobbins of handspun singles: 2 spun clockwise (Z-twist) and 1 spun counterclockwise (S-twist). E-spinners are welcome, bring a charged battery or UL-rated grounded (3-prong) extension cord.
Provided: handout (PDF)
Material fee: $0 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: Chairs in a circle, table for samples. Power outlets and a spare table in case
there are e-spinners.
Workshop: Power Spinning
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Does your electric or electronic spinner run away with your yarn, get miles ahead of your fingers, or just not make the yarn you're thinking of? Whether you come from spindle or wheel or are new to spinning, work on your e-spinning technique with hands-on tips. Take control of your e-spinner and see what it can do. Art yarn to laceweight, casual or production spinning: we'll put our e-spinners through their paces.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a wheel, spindle, or e-spinner.
Participants bring: an electric/electronic spinner in good working condition, 3 empty bobbins, and a lazy kate. An extension cord may be handy as well, depending on the outlet situation in the room, or a charged portable battery if you have one for your spinner.
Provided: fiber (wool*) and handout.
Material fee: $10 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chair per student plus instructor. 3'x3' table space per student, plus 2 tables for class material, and electrical outlets/extensions to permit plugging in one electric wheel per participant. (I do have extension cords I will bring.)
Workshop: Russian and Tibetan (spindles) Too!
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Russian spindles have a long tradition and fascinating techniques; their counterpart Tibetan spindles lend wonderful efficiency to these methods. We will explore Russian spindling with cashmere to spin and ply with silk thread to create the gossamer yarns their amazing shawls are knit from. The feeling of long draw with cashmere is wonderful, and the Russian plying method has to be seen to be believed. You get to see it, learn it, and do it in this workshop.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type) or on a wheel.
Participants bring: Spindles are supplied for use on class, but if you already have Russian or Tibetan spindles, feel free to bring them. You are welcome to bring any fiber or spindles you want to ask questions about.
Provided: fiber (cashmere and other exotics *)
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: 4' table space and a chair per person. An additional table for samples and supplies.
Workshop: Silk on Spindles
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Glorious silk! Its shine and handle are amazing, and it's no surprise that this special fiber deserves its own corner of each spinner's stash. There are several types and preparations of silk for today's spinner to explore. We'll explore together how to spin and ply these fibers on drop spindles. We look at how to choose a spindle for spinning the silk yarn you want, and explore the varieties of silk, beyond Tussah and Bombyx: Mugu, Eri, silk hankies, silk noil, and more.
Skill level: Intermediate. Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type).
Participants bring: If they have them, their favorite top-whorl or bottom-whorl spindle or a spindle that is about an ounce.
Provided:fiber(silk*) and handout. Spindles supplied for use in class.
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Sock Machine Basics
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
We'll start with a light cleaning, giving our sock machines a rub-down to let them crank well. We'll check over our needles, learn how to identify compromised needles, then learn to adjust the yarn carrier for no dropped stitches.
Once our machines are cranking, we'll knit my favorite sock, a mock-rib hemmed stockinette sock. For those with sock experience, we can explore mittens, hats, and ribbed socks.
Along the way, we'll discuss yarn selection and care of socks.
You'll boost your sock machine confidence with this full day workshop.
Skill level: Beginner.
Participants bring: Please bring a sock machine in working order, sock yarn and waste yarn, a mat to catch oil drips, and your usual sock machine tools. If you are completely new to sock machines, I recommend a buckle and weight set, a pickup-hook, heel weights (heel hook and weights or heel forks), some sock machine oil, yarn on cones or sock machine wooden bobbins. Waste yarn (sock weight) and sock yarn.
Provided: handout.
Material fee: $2 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs for participants, a few tables that sock machines can be clamped to (estimate 3' per participant, should be foldable in case some machines have stands), a table for samples.
Workshop: Spin a Coil and Bead Necklace
Length: 2 hours*
Description:
Spin the quickest gift -- a unique yarn necklace, using beads and coil spinning. We will even add findings so it is true jewelry. In this workshop, you learn how to spin singles for coil yarn, how to include beads in coil yarn, and what to do to turn a length of beaded coil yarn into a necklace.
Skill level: Adventurous, and able to spin a consistent single and ply a balanced yarn. This is a great class for intermediate spinners looking to get a taste for art yarn while creating a fun finished item.
Participants bring: A spinning wheel in working condition, 2 empty bobbins and a lazy kate.
Provided: Fiber (wool*), thread, bead, and findings.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: A circle of chairs, one per person. A table on the side for supplies and samples.
Workshop: Spindle and Fiber (formerly Yarn Diameter Control on Spindles)
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Does your spindle control your yarn, your fiber control your yarn, or do you control your yarn? Find how to work with your fiber and spindle to get the yarn you want. We explore fiber selection, spindle choice, and drafting methods to create the yarn you want. From low-twist singles to durable 3-ply sock yarn, you can control the yarn you make. Put your spindles through their paces.
Skill level: Intermediate. Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type).
Participants bring: If they have them, participants should bring 3 different weight top-whorl or bottom-whorl spindles, that they consider to be very light, normal, and a bit heavy. They may also bring any spindles or fibers they have questions about.
Provided:fiber(wool, silk, alpaca*) and handout. Spindles will be supplied for use in class.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Spindle Longdraw
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Yes, you can spin longdraw on drop spindles. This isn't limited to support spindles, wheels or charkas! We step from inchworm to leapfrog to longdraw. You will gain the techniques you need to spin lofty woolen yarns and resilient high-twist yarns efficiently.
Skill level: Intermediate. Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type).
Participants bring: If they have them, their favorite top-whorl, bottom-whorl or Turkish spindle.
Provided:fiber(wool*) and handout. Spindles will be supplied for use in class.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Spinning Fleece, Andean, Wolfspun, Tailspun, and then some!
Length: 3 hours*
Description: When you spin washed fleece, you can decide how smooth or crazy you want your yarn. We will explore the Andean spinning methods for smooth, durable yarns. Then we will look at the fast way to fuzzy, woolen yarns. Next, we explore yarn that looks like sheep, tailspun yarns. Along the way we will explore fiber processing with minimal tools, how to spin locks for smooth yarn or for fluffy yarn. We will cover techniques to spin worsted to woolen with washed fleece, with just your hands. Find out how many yarns you can spin from one fleece. Participants should already be able to spin a consistent single: for advanced beginners to experienced spinners. Wheel, e-spinner, and spindle spinners welcome.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a single on their spinning tool.
Participants bring: spinning wheel or e-spinner in working condition with an empty bobbin, or spindles in several weights.
Provided: washed fleece (wool*), handout
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: Two tables for supplies, chairs – one for each student and one for the instructor. Enough space for everyone to sit comfortably in a spinning circle.
Workshop: Spinning Over The Edge
Length: 6 hours*
Description:
Spin outside the box -- explore alternative yarn constructions for creating unique handspun yarn. Step over the edge of traditional spinning with this workshop. We explore how to spin thick and thin in singles and use them to create plied effects. Then we explore coils, snarls, knots, and supercoils and how to create balanced yarns with these constructs. Next we create the amazing corespun yarns with their unique appearance. Finally we explore inclusions, getting items large and small, hard and soft, to be in our yarn. Along the way we discuss designing yarn with a goal in mind, and how we can use these techniques to do that.
Participants should be comfortable spinning and plying on a wheel or e-spinner.
Participants bring: wheel or e-spinner (and extension cord or battery) in working condition with three empty bobbins and a lazy kate.
Provided: fiber (wool and others*), handout
Material fee: $10 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. A few spare tables that can be set up if needed for e-spinners.
Topics: wheel, intermediate, art yarn, spin
Spinning Shetland
Length: 6 hours or 3 hours, depending on depth of study desired
Shetland sheep have a rich history and tradition, and a unique fleece. We spin fleece, roving, and combed top from this noble animal while we discuss the palette of natural colors they provide and the historical use for Shetland ring shawls. Fiber provided; bring your own wheel or spindle. If you have hand cards or hand combs, bring them; several pairs available for sharing in the workshop. Local Shetland fiber and fleece will be available to purchase. Wheel rental available, $10 paid in class.
Material fee: $10, includes fiber and handout
Maximum participants: 20
Room Setup: circle of chairs with room for spinners and their wheels; table on the side for teacher samples and supplies
Workshop: Spinning Slippery Fibers
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Ready to move beyond wool? Other animal fibers are exciting and fun ... and slippery! The smoothness of mohair, alpaca, silk, pygora, and other fibers creates a new challenge for experienced wool spinners. We will explore these fibers from less slippery to more slippery. Learn how to adjust your wheel or choose your spindle to make your tools ready for these fibers; what to look for in new fibers; drafting methods for longer staples; joins with slippery fibers; and giving yourself the opportunity to explore new fibers. We will explore twist in these fibers and how it sets; plying methods and finishing methods. We will discuss use of these yarns in knitting, weaving, and other fiber arts.
Participants should already be able to spin a consistent single: for advanced beginners to experienced spinners. Wheel, e-spinner, and spindle spinners welcome.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a single on their spinning tool.
Participants bring: spinning wheel or e-spinner in working condition with three empty bobbins and a lazy kate, or spindles in several weights.
Provided: fiber (wool*, alpaca, silk, pygora), handout
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: Two tables for supplies, chairs – one for each student and one for the instructor. Enough space for everyone to sit comfortably in a spinning circle. Hot water or an electrical outlet to heat water for a fleece washing demo.
Workshop: Spin Super Sock Yarns
Length: 6 hours*
Description:
Socks -- the search for the perfect fiber and the perfect yarn are tantalizing to spinners. What fibers should you use? how should they be prepared? spun? what yarn construction is best? We explore these topics and also discuss finishing and knitting methods for durable sock yarns. We explore handcombs to make durable worsted preparation and drum carders to create smooth blends. And, we will look at color effects along the way.
Ahh sock yarn! This is why I learned to spin, so I've spent much of my career studying sock yarns and trying out new techniques. In this full day workshop, I pass along all that I have learned to you. We will explore fiber content, fiber prep, spinning style, plying methods, color effects, and more!
Let's spin super sock yarns! You'll get some new colors in your sock yarn paintbox from this full day workshop.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin and ply a consistent single on their spinning tool of choice (wheel, e-spinner, or spindle).
Participants bring: wheel or e-spinner (and extension cord or battery) in working condition with FOUR empty bobbins and lazy kate (only 1 bobbin? bring 2 bowls and a ball winder if you have one); or 4 spindles just under an ounce, a plying spindle, and a lazy kate or two mugs (only 1 spindle? bring a ball winder if you have one). You may also bring any fiber you have questions about.
Provided: fiber (wool and blends*), handout
Material fee: $10 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. A few spare tables that can be set up if needed for e-spinners. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Super Singles
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Can your yarn be done at singles? Yes. You can spin what you want, from durable, high-twist singles to lofty, soft singles; from lace to bulky. We return to the roots of spinning wool into yarn, exploring how drafting affects yarn thickness. Then we look at how your wheels or spindles can help you get the yarn you want. Next we discuss the impact singles' twist has on our finished items. Active twist can be a useful tool in weaving and knitting, if managed well on the loom or needles. Locking the twist in place can make singles be as calm as balanced yarns. You will have a new respect for the simple single by the end of this workshop.
Participants bring: wheel or e-spinner (and extension cord or battery) in working condition with an empty bobbin; or several weights of spindles. You may also bring any fiber you have questions about.
Provided: fiber (wool and others*), handout
Material fee: $8 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. A few spare tables that can be set up if needed for e-spinners. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Teaching Spindling
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Do you want to pass along the skill of spindling but aren't sure how? Does your local knit shop want to offer classes but you don't know where, or how, to begin? This experienced teacher will share her class preparation, suppliers, and teaching methods with you, so you can go forth and teach! Bring a sense of fun and love of learning. Spinning experience is useful but not required.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single.
Participants bring: spindles you plan to teach on, if you have them, and your favorite spindle. Fibers you have questions about.
Provided: fiber(wool*), handout, spindles to use in class
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. Carpet is nice to cushion dropped spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Travelling With Turkish Spindles
Length: 3 hours*
Description: Turkish Spindles deserve to be in every spinners' travel kit. They are a complete spinning kit in themselves, just add fiber. We explore Turkish spindling methods and ways to enjoy fiber on the go with these portable spindles. Fiber management, spinning methods, plying methods, and yarn management will all be discussed. We'll discover how to use not only our spindles but also our bodies so that all you need to pack is spindle and fiber.
Skill level: Participants should be able to spin a consistent single on a spindle (any type) or wheel.
Participants bring: You are welcome to bring any fiber or spindles you want to ask questions about; all supplies will be provided. If you have any Turkish spindles, you are welcome to bring them.
Provided: (wool*) and handout. Spindles will be supplied for use in class.
Material fee: $5 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: chairs and enough room for the group to work in a circle. A table for teaching supplies. Carpet is nice to cushion spindles, but not mandatory.
Workshop: Woolee Winder Maintenance
Length: 2 hours*
Description: It's time to clean your WooLee Winder: if you spin by a wood stove; if it's a year or more since you last cleaned it or you never have; if you spin floaty fibers like cashmere and angora; if it's making noise or hesitating as it travels its path. Because there are special tools (Allen wrenches, come with the WW), small parts, and screws and sticky oily parts, we often put this off. Bring your WooLee Winder, its parts kit (if you still have it), and a flathead screwdriver. We will take apart our WooLee Winders, clean them out, reassemble, and oil them so they are ready to take on another year of yarn...
Skill level: Any. Helpful if you have a woolee winder, as otherwise you will just be watching...
Participants bring: your woolee winder, its maintenance kit (came with it), a flat-head screw driver, and the wheel or e-spinner it goes on.
Provided: handout, cleaning towels, oil, and tools to share in class.
Material fee: $2 *
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: 3' of table space per student. I have automotive drip trays to keep oil off the tables and prevent loss of small pieces, so rectangular tables are preferred.
Topics: wheel, beginner, intermediate, woolee winder, spin
Length: 6 hours. Shorter version (3 hours) available,can focus on yarn design or fiber choice. Material fee: $10, fibers to spin in class and handout
Length: 6 hours
Material fee: $30 yarns and dye, latex gloves, use of all tools
Material fee: $20 includes materials and loom
Length: 6 hours
Length: 6 hours.
Students bring: charka in working condition, any fibers or yarns they have questions about. Cotton handcards if they have them.
Materials provided: cotton fiber, resource list
Length: full day
Length: full day
Material fee: $20 for a silk sampler.
Along with your pin loom and needle, bring a variety of yarns, worsted weight, DK, chenille, ribbon -- whatever leftovers you have or skeins to play with. I will have a wide variety on hand as well.
Length: By arrangement, half or full day.
Spin Super Sock Yarns
Sock yarns inspire my spinning -- finding the perfect fiber, the best yarn structure, even the best sock itself. Come spin along with me as we journey through the land of sock yarn spinning and spin super sock yarns! We discuss sock blends, focus on spinning techniques for durable yarns, and develop yarn structures for the best socks. Fiber supplied, bring your wheel and 4 empty bobbins, or several spindles for singles and plying. E-spinners also welcome!Length: 6 hours. Shorter version (3 hours) available,can focus on yarn design or fiber choice. Material fee: $10, fibers to spin in class and handout
Handpainting Yarn and Fiber
Dyeing yarn and fiber need not be a mystery. Come create unique and lovely colorways to suit your color tastes in this dye workshop. We work with gentle, food-grade acid dyes and white vinegar, painting yummy wool yarn and fiber. This workshop is open to beginner and experienced dyers alike. We will discuss color choices and placement, and how to use the resulting dyed yarns and fibers. Workshop fee includes a 4 ounce skein of yarn and 4 ounces of combed top, and all materials. Additional skeins or fiber may be purchased if desired. If you desire to dye just yarn or just fiber, substitutions are permitted.Length: 6 hours
Material fee: $30 yarns and dye, latex gloves, use of all tools
Backstrap Basics
The most fundamental of looms, the Backstrap Loom is used around the world. It is also the most compact, rolling up for easy transport and setting up again in mere minutes given a sturdy place to tie it and a weaver. In this workshop, we step through the basics, winding a warp, assembling our looms, and weaving a band. This first project is a stepping stone to your next project -- weaving a part of the loom itself. I often wonder if the term bootstrap was a misheard use of the word backstrap ... Workshop cost includes loom parts and materials for your band. No weaving experience necessary.Material fee: $20 includes materials and loom
Length: 6 hours
Cotton on the Charkha
Ghandhi revolutionized spinning cotton with the development of the book charkha. In this workshop, we explore cotton on charkhas in general, using book, attaché, or upright charkhas. Participants should be able to spin on a wheel or spindle prior to this workshop, but no prior charkha experience is required. Some charkhas are available to rent, $10 rental fee. Fiber supplied.Length: 6 hours.
Students bring: charka in working condition, any fibers or yarns they have questions about. Cotton handcards if they have them.
Materials provided: cotton fiber, resource list
Double Weave on the Rigid Heddle Loom
Double Weave is an interesting weave structure letting us weave many structures: a double-width fabric, a tube, double-faced designs, and more! Weave a double weave sampler on the rigid heddle in this exciting workshop. We use two heddles and two pick-up sticks for this weave structure, showing the versatility of rigid heddle looms. Prior basic rigid heddle experience is needed for this workshop. If you do not have two heddles the same size, bring what you have. A list of materials to bring will be emailed upon registration.Length: full day
Silk Road
Fascinating Silk! Explore how to spin and ply different types and preparations of silk. Tune your wheel and hands as we spin a wide variety of silks: Bombyx, Tussah, Muga, Eri; and different preparations: silk noil, silk waste, sari silk, and hankies. Spindle spinners also welcome. Discussion includes finishing silk skeins and use of silk in knitting, needlework, and weaving.Length: full day
Material fee: $20 for a silk sampler.
Texture & Pattern on the 4" Loom
These little pin looms we know as weavettes, weave-its, zoom looms and more, are for more than plain weave. Learn some fun techniques for texture and pattern to add depth and zing to your next project. We will discuss the use of design in the fun new projects like hats, scarves, and tablet cases as well as the more traditional dolls, afghans, and mug coasters. I have several pin looms to share if you can't dig yours up. We will start with the basics and then build on that with a variety of techniques.Along with your pin loom and needle, bring a variety of yarns, worsted weight, DK, chenille, ribbon -- whatever leftovers you have or skeins to play with. I will have a wide variety on hand as well.
Length: By arrangement, half or full day.
Viking Knitting
Length: half day
Description:Learn this ancient knitting technique for making metal jewelry. Viking knitting uses no knitting needles or yarn: form a knit structure with wire, then shape a graceful bracelet and add handmade findings.
Skill level: No prior experience necessary.
Participants bring: If you have them, bring needle-nose pliers and wire snips.
Provided: materials to make one bracelet in class, tools for use in class.
Material fee: $5, makes one bracelet. Additional supplies available.
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: table space and a chair for each participant. Table for samples and supplies.
Workshop: Weave Fabric Into Cloth on the Rigid Heddle
Length: 3 hours*
Description:
Explore creating fabric from fabric with this fun Monet-inspired weaving method. We take large print fabrics, cut, and weave them into new cloth. Terrific for vests, totes, and more. Quilters may find this new weaving method quite inspiring.
Note: This class can be taught as a learn-to-weave class, starting from empty looms, with a 6-hour workshop length.
Skill level: Participants should be able to weave on the rigid heddle loom.
Participants bring: Rigid heddle loom warped with crochet cotton #20 (or 10/2 cotton) in a color that coordinates with their fabric selection, using 8 dent heddle (7.5 dent is fine too). Recommend a warp not wider than 24" (full width of loom for looms skinnier than 24" is fine). Thick cotton fabric with a large, distinctive print (think, Hawaiian shirt distinctive). Two stick shuttles. Fabric cutting scissors (SHARP).
Provided: resource list
Material fee: $0
Maximum participants: 20 *
Room setup: table space for looms; ability to remove tables for those with stands. additional table for samples and teacher's tools
Topics: weaving, rigid heddle
Footnotes...
* The length of a workshop will be shorter with fewer participants. Many workshops can be converted to 1 hour presentations to a group of any size (which also means there will be a $0 material fee). With less than 4, a 3 hour workshop is typically completed in 2 hours. Also, shorter version of 6 hour (day) or weekend workshops may be available -- just ask.
* Material fees may be out of date as material prices fluctuate. You may also be able to 0 out the material fee by bringing your own materials and having the handout emailed to you, or for the presentation version of a workshop. Feel free to ask.
* Wool is the typical fiber in most of my workshops where not otherwise specified. If you have a wool allergy, let me know so that we can arrange other fibers. There may be an additional material fee for this, since wool is also usually the most economical choice. You may also be able to bring your own fiber, as always, just ask.
* The maximum size of the workshop may be curtailed by room limitations at shows or in my studio. My studio can hold 10 spinners comfortably, 5 floor looms, and 8 rigid heddle looms. Studio dyeing is typically done on good weather days, the dye garden can hold up to 20 dyers.
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