Friday, December 25, 2009

Good Article for New Spinners

I just read this article and found it encouraging as a new spinner. It helps to learn about the processes other spinners go through as they begin to learn the art.

http://saradippity.blogspot.com/2009/02/tips-from-spinning-newbie.html

As for me, well, my spinning is getting better, but it is far from where I want it to be. However, I just finished a cardigan for my 3-year-old that turned out GREAT! Photos to come. :)

Monday, December 7, 2009

Spinning a Yarn

Well, I've done it. I decided to try spinning. Last week, I watched hours of YouTube videos on the subject, made myself a drop spindle, and purchased some wool roving.

Let me tell you, those talented women on the videos sure make it look easy. My first 30 yards or so were, let's say, somewhat less than ideal. I guess I'm going to call this attempt a "novelty" yarn. The second spindle full was more even and without nearly as many breaks in the strand. Gave me hope that I can learn.

I still have quite a bit of the roving left and I'm hoping to improve even more. I just found a great pattern for a pair of children's felted clogs, and I'm thinking of using this yarn to make those for Laura. It requires you knit with two strands which will help even out the anomalies. Here's a link to the pattern if you are interested in it. http://www.fibertrends.com/product/0/CH38e/_/CH38e_Children%27s_Felt_Clogs_-_PDF?os=rav

By the way, I'm amazed at the wealth of information available on YouTube. Thanks so much to all you fiber enthusiasts who take the time and effort to teach us through this medium!