Mastodawn

People who spindle spin: I am going to be running a spindle workshop and want to know what you would recommend for beginners in the way of fibre. I'm thinking dyed merino (assuming it's not felty), but does anyone have a better suggestion for beginners? #fiberarts #SpindleSpinning #Textileart

Show thread

FanCityKnits 🇺🇦🧶Feb 25

@RandomYarning

BFL or Corrie Dale

Depending on where in the world you are there might also be local fibers. In Germany a popular choice is Coburger Fuchs or Bergschaf. Both not really the softest fiber but reasonably cheap and easy to spin

Show thread

Elizenery🔻Feb 25

@FanCityKnits @RandomYarning Agree. Merino is quite hard for beginners just like most very fine fibers. Better go for a medium wool that has some 'tooth' to it or indeed something more crimpy like corriedale. I also think that carded preparations are easier than combed top.

Show thread

RandomYarning Feb 25

@lisettedeboer @FanCityKnits thank you both, I was already thinking more towards actually not merino (which I don't like myself very much but had it in my head it is an "easy" fleece!) And now I'm definitely sure not to use merino!

Show thread

FanCityKnits 🇺🇦🧶Feb 25

@RandomYarning @lisettedeboer

Merino is mostly easy to find because that's what most people already know from when they are buying yarn.

Learning to spin opens one's eyes to what is actually available or there and that different breeds are often the better choice depending on what the final use of the yarn is.

So starting with something different just accelerates the learning in that respect.

Maybe even have a small selection of suitable fibers at hand?

Show thread

RandomYarning

@FanCityKnits @lisettedeboer I'm planning on having some "actual from sheep" locks, some (small) selection of different wool types, a little linen, a little cotton, some ramie, some silk. As well as my handspun shawl and half finished sweater (space in case depending)