Length of workshop : 2 days, 6 hours a day.

Content of workshop:

This workshop will cover the preparation and spinning of worsted and woollen yarn, and the most suitable breeds of wool for each type of yarn. Flick carding/combing and the short drafting method will be taught for worsted spinning on the first day. The second day will cover handcarding and drum carding and the medium draft and long draw for woollen spinning. Short sample skeins will be spun, plyed, and washed, and the end uses discussed for each type of yarn. Spinning from the fold will also be covered. Students can attend one or both days.

Standard of students:Students should have done some basic spinning but do not need to be experienced spinners.

Students should bring with them:

• Spinning wheel and 3 bobbins.
• Niddy noddy and lazy kate.
• Flick carder or comb, and a piece of leather (lap size), or strong fabric to protect your lap while flick carding or combing.
• Hand cards. If you haven’t any hand cards you can use the class drum carder to prepare wool.
• Note pad and pen. Tags to identify each skein. Old towel.
• Spare drive band cord, scissors, oil for wheel maintenance.
• 4 plastic sheets A4 size (12x9ins approx) for displaying samples.

WOOL (per student)

Different carding and combing methods will be taught, then small sample skeins of worsted and woollen yarn will be spun, using different drafting methods such as the long draw and short draft. Suitable fleece types for each will be discussed, and the end uses of the yarns will be covered.

For a 1 day class, students will need 100g (2oz) of clean, unwashed fleece, (see Romney fleece below) and 100gms (2oz) of carded sliver/rovings (not commercial tops). In this shorter workshop there will not be time to prepare the fibres.

For the 2 day class, each student will need 200g (4oz) of clean, unwashed fleece, of a short-stapled, reasonably fine fleece. A Corriedale with a staple length of about 5-8cm (2-3 ins) would be ideal. Also 200g (4oz) of clean, unwashed fleece. with a staple length of 10-15cm (4-6in). A Romney fleece would be ideal. 

Maximum number in class: 16

Tutor will need: Access to hot water, two buckets and some detergent. White board. Spinning wheel to demonstrate on.  Drum Carder