Even though I took spinning classes several years ago near Austin, I really didn’t know anything and it was so much to absorb that obviously . . I didn’t! What I need is someone to watch me spin, and let me watch them spin and they can help me. I’ve watched the Craftsy class I have over and over and it helps. I learn something new each time, but it’s not like having someone holding my hand.
I googled “spinning wool” and or town and found some old guy who has demonstrated spinning at several community events. I asked a couple of people if they know him, because I couldn’t find him or much about him on the internet. My friend, Nelle, told me that the husband of a knitting buddy is good friends with the guy and she’s going to get in touch with them and see if they’ll get in touch with him and maybe he can help me.
Then, I was thinking . . I have a knitting friend in Nevada, MO who is an amazing, expert spinner. I’ll bet she’ll help me next time I’m there. I wrote her and she said “Sure!” She has multiple wheels, including an electric one, and lots of fiber so I’m looking forward to spending some time with her.
I’ll keep working. Practice really does help. Tomorrow I’m going to tackle a different fiber and try again. I’ll be a good spinner some day!
Joyce says
I was told spin for 20 minutes a day, and it really does help. The hardest part is drafting. Some people will say not to strip your fiber lengthwise, but when you are just beginning it can make it easier to draft. You also need to take a look at how long the fibers are and hold your hands about that far apart. Example: if the fibers are about 3 inches long, don’t have your hands any closer than that. You can figure out the length of the fiber by gently trying to pull a piece of fiber off the end. If you are holding your hands too close together, you won’t be able to pull it apart.. Merino wool is a good fiber to start with. I didn’t have any problems with Shetland either.
Nelle Coursey says
Hope he gets in touch with you!!
Martha says
I’m considering buying a wheel at dfw fiber fest. The lady lives an hour and a half away and I knew I couldn’t go every week to see her so it’s encouraging that I can watch a video and practice on my own also. Yea!!!
dezertsuz says
In the years I’ve known you, the one thing I learned early on and has remained true is that you can learn anything you set your mind to. And then you become really good at it. You have an eye for color and design, and you pay attention to details.