I was recently asked if I could share how I maintain grist, a consistent thickness in my handspun. First, I think it is important for me to stress that my spinning does contain inconsistencies but those inconsistencies are not nearly as noticeable once turned into woven or knitted fabric. Here… Read More »The gist of grist
I recently participated in a really interesting collaboration with the team at SweetGeorgia Yarns. They asked their spinning instructors to share pictures containing colours or ideas that express something that inspires them during the winter season. My inspiration was a photo of a Common Kingfisher and the Greek legend which… Read More »SGY Winter Inspirations Collaboration
Handpainted rovings are seductive. Plain and simple. I know I am not alone when it comes to purchasing a handpainted braid or two with complete disregard to breed, staple length, etc. Sometimes my purchases are based solely on the yearning to work with the bewitching colours before me. But unlike… Read More »Wool Cake for Beginner Spinners
Today I will be scouring fleece from three sheep breeds in preparation for the fleece and handspinning workshop I am teaching at Coniagas Textiles later this fall. I love scouring my own fleece. This first step provides me with pertinent information regarding the fibre I will be working with and… Read More »Coniagas Textiles Workshop
Further details and registration for this workshop is available through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/blending-alluring-silk-rolags-and-sliver-tickets-138020554193
When processed sliver or roving is packed up for storage or transport it can sometimes loose a bit of its character. My article in Spin Off’s Winter 2021 issue explains how I rejuvenate loft and crimp. The resulting rejuvenated sliver or roving feels and behaves more like my own handcombed… Read More »Spin Off, Winter 2021
My current spin is for a shawl. I want to see how this handspun performs in fabric form before I start spinning for an all-over patterned sweater. This skein was spun from a white, beautifully prepared commercial sliver (purchased from Crafty Jaks). I will spin another 100 gram skein today… Read More »Spin On My Wheel Today