I want to Learn to Spin!

Creating Yarn: Spinning, Dyeing, etc.
1

I am interseted inlearning to spin and would like to have the advice of spinners. I have no clue what I am getting into yet and do not want to spend alot at the out set. Where to start?

2

Do you have an LYS where you could take a class? My LYS teaches classes on using a spindle and a wheel, and will rent wheels too. It seems like a good way to start out without spending a lot of money.

I haven’t tried spinning yet, but would like to someday. I need to knit through some of my yarn before I start making more though:knitting:

3

The least expensive way to start spinning is with a drop spindle. Try I Can Spin to see how to make a spindle, or check out various Etsy shops for spindles and roving.

Abby Franquemont has wonderful youtube videos on drop spindling and a great book “Respect the Spindle” to help get you started.

4

FYI: Amy carries this full DVD for “Respect the Spindle” in the KnittingHelp.com shop:

http://www.knittinghelp.com/shop/products/respect-the-spindle-dvd

It covers using a drop spindle, which is definitely the quickest way to get up to speed, not to mention the least expensive. We also have “How I Spin” which is a much more comprehensive 2 DVD set covering carding, spinning on a wheel, etc.

5

Knit picks has their “Learn to Spin” set on sale right now. It would get you a spindle and some fiber for a very good price and make getting started feasible. Aside from the DVD set that Sheldon mentioned, there are a lot of good tutorials to be found on You Tube as well.

6

Nice avatar newwooley. Had me confused for a moment. :mrgreen:

7

Thanks Sheldon. Is this thing supposed to be gender specific? I’m a female and at the time I made it my avatar, it was the only knitting one I could find.

8

I think the cheat is of the male disposition :wink: I like that he’s holding the needles completely wrong. Even I know that, and I don’t knit. Well, that’s not quite accurate, I am working on my first hat and thankfully have Amy to turn to every time I drop a stitch!

9

Thanks for clarifying…I’m off to find a new “female” avatar. Leave it to me to find something wrong:doh:
I forgot to add congrats on learning to knit. I figured Amy would get some needles in your hands at some point, LOL. You have a great teacher to guide you.