Are You Interested in Spinning?
Wednesday May 7, 2008
This week's poll is short and sweet. It seems like a lot of books on spinning have been crossing my desk lately. I really want to spin, but I'm a little intimidated by the process and the tools involved (yes, I know you can make a drop spindle out of a CD, and that I felt the same way before I knit my first sock, my first lace project, etc., but still).
So I want to know how many of you out there already spin your own, how many would like to learn and how many would prefer to just keep buying your yarn from the store, thank you very much.
Your answers will likely influence how quickly I give spinning a try, as I'm sure to share my experiences with you if a lot of people want to learn.
Poll: Are you interested in spinning?
View Results
So I want to know how many of you out there already spin your own, how many would like to learn and how many would prefer to just keep buying your yarn from the store, thank you very much.
Your answers will likely influence how quickly I give spinning a try, as I'm sure to share my experiences with you if a lot of people want to learn.
Poll: Are you interested in spinning?
View Results
Comments
I learned to spin on a drop spindle at a renaissance fair about 3 years ago, it took about a two min lesson and about 10 min of me doing it to feel confident to leave her booth and do it at home on my own. I like it, but would really like to get a wheel(its hard to drop spin with a 19 month old around), but if you have ever priced one…again the tot makes it hard to get one!
I spin quite alot.
I find it very relaxing and watch TV at the same time.
It does not take long to learn.
It takes some patience and perseverance but well worth the time spent.
I have just started learning, bought a spinning wheel and will love to hear from other spinners for tips and stuff.
I have my latest spindle acquisition in my purse at the moment with a bit of superwash, hand-dyed merino to spin today. I’ve been spinning for 11 years now, after having a group of friends teach me on-line (trust me,learning in 3D is much easier). Like all fiberarts it has its own learning curve, but unlike many this has a real *AHA!* moment when your fingers and, in the case of wheels, feet, and mind all suddenly connect. Even more than knitting, though, spinning, either wheel or spindle, has a truly contemplative nature. It can really transport you and suck you in, even if you know it’s midnight and 5 AM is getting closer and closer .
Wheels can be expensive, but then, so can spindles (I have my share of $70+ spindles, but who’s counting?). However, there are wheels available for under $200. While not much for looks, the Babe wheels are little workhorses and a good starter wheel. For under $400 the Kromski Prelude is beautiful and spins well, too. There are some wheel dealers who will let you put them on layaway or on payments, too. Not to knock spindles either, but many are available under $40, or even for under $10 if you are willing to do a little craft work.
Sarah, you can learn a lot about commercial yarn by spinning your own, give it a whirl. Besides, NY Sheep and Wool Festival is only a few months away. If you want to learn to spin, I’ll be there and I’ll teach you. Or if you’re really anxious, MA Sheep & Wool isn’t far from NYC, and I’ll be there, too .
When/where is the MA Sheep & Wool? I’ve lived in MA my entire life and I’m just hearing of such a dream.
I started spinning in 1970. Became thoroughly addicted. It was(is) much cheaper than buying commercial wool because I knitted a lot for the family. Joined the spinners’ and handweavers’ Guild. Became a judge for the guild and the Annual Royal Adelaide Show for 19 years. Old age caught up so don’t do much of that now. Keep spinning and DYEING. That’s also great fun….Mary
Try spinning. It is truly contempletive. I spin quite a lot…you don’t have to figure out which row you’re on, or what stitch to do….Find a local group who may have wheels to rent and try out. Happy spinning.