Beginning Spindle - with Sylvia Smith

Beginning Spindle Spinning:
While spinning fiber on spinning wheels is a comparatively modern innovation, spinning fibers together to use for cloth has been done for at least 20,000 years. Prior to the development of spinning wheels, threads and yarns for all textiles were spun on spindles. This class gives you the opportunity to reconnect with your ancestral heritage by learning to spin on a drop spindle. Sylvia will teach you how to spin different types of wool on a drop spindle, and you’ll also learn how to create a plied yarn with this tool. At first glance, spinning on a drop spindle appears slower and more primitive than using a spinning wheel to create yarn. Looks can be deceiving, as a spindle is an effective tool for making yarn and it is more affordable and portable than a spinning wheel. No spinning experience is necessary. A handout with resources and terminology will be provided. Bring your own spindle to use in class, or borrow one of Sylvia’s. Spindles may be available for purchase at vendor booths.  Students will also be provided with take-home spindles as part of the materials fee.

Saturday 2:00-5:00