In my world a Tussie Mussie is a fibre preparation method I developed for Eri silk sliver. No special equipment is required, just my hands.
At first glance you would think a Tussie Mussie would result in an awful tangled mess. Surprisingly it doesn’t. Instead it helps you to keep eri’s slick gossamer fibres in check which helps you to spin a fine, smooth silk yarn. Tussie Mussies are a great prep for taking to the wheel, a drop spindle or a supported spindle. If you love eri silk and are looking for a way to tame those slippery fibres, check out Spin-Off’s Winter 2023 Issue (page 72) for details.
Eri Tussie Mussie (right)
I enjoyed your article Kim and the photos are really clear, I need to practice this fibre prep again.
A Tussie Mussie is also a great fibre prep for cashmere/silk, camel/silk and yak/silk blends…..just saying’ 😉