Spin it: Making Yarn from Scratch

Aug 10

Spinning instructions in this book start from putting twist into a strand of fibre using only your hands, then a hooked stick, only moving onto spinning with a homemade spindle after having explained drafting, twist, tension, how lumps in the yarn occur (and how to avoid them). Making a handspindle from CDs is explained, then how to spin and how to ply. Carding and combing wool follow, and scouring fleece rounds up the skills taught before ending with a handful of simple knit, weave and crochet patterns. Excellent tutor book for beginners who haven't spun before and want to make yarn on a spindle.

Sept 06

With this great little booklet you can learn how to make your own yarn from scratch. None of the methods use combersome equipment, rather there is a selection of hand-held techniques that need only a spindle or just a simple hook. Some of these can be made at home from a wire coathanger or follow the igenious instructions to make use of all those free CDs to produce your own spindle. The step by step guide then takes you through your first home-spun yarn using a handful of fleece. The friendly tone of the book guides you through each stage with plenty of tips and advice as you perfect your art and your confidence increases. Once spun, the book talks you through processing your yarn to create a perfect ball of wool. With lots of information about preparing wool straight off the sheep's back you can really start from scratch or opt to buy ready to spin wool. There are also five projects to make with your hanks of home-made wool. This booklet will bring out the Barbara Good in everyone and give you a satisfying glow of self-sufficiency while opening a door on a fascinating craft.