Summer Classes
I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be teaching two workshops at the John Arbon Textiles Mill Open Weekend this year. Held on 7th & 8th June 2025 in South Molton, North Devon.
If you’re brand new to spinning, or would like a little refresher, my Drop Spindle for Beginners class is a perfect option. You’ll build your confidence step by step and learn how to adapt the techniques for increased efficiency as you gain experience.
If you’ve been spinning for a while but struggle to get the results you were aiming for, then How to Spin the Yarn You Actually Want is the workshop for you! You’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to spin custom yarns tailored to your creative vision.
You can find out more about all the events and register for the sessions here — hope to see you there!
Demystifying Grist
When you’re planning a project with handspun or just trying to work out how much yarn is in a mystery skein, grist is a vital measurement to understand.
How to Measure Handspun Using Wraps Per Inch (WPI)
Wraps per inch is just one of the measurements I take when I’m planning a project. Although it has its pitfalls, it can be a useful way to compare your handspun to commercial yarns or just see whether you’re on track to spin the kind of yarn you want.
How to Tie a Bobbin Leader
If you’re wondering “why won’t my spinning wheel feed yarn onto the bobbin?” at the start of a spinning project, you’re in the right place because nine times out of ten, this simple trick will fix your take-up issues. Especially on wheels with slippery plastic bobbins like the Electric Eel Nano.
My Most-Referenced Spinning Books
There’s so much to learn about spinning yarn and these are the books I return to time and time again, over a decade into my spinning journey.
Tour de Fleece: Introduction
Get ready to join the world’s biggest spin-along! Everything you need to know for 2023 including a handy calendar!
Workshop: Tips for Colour Management
Introducing my new workshop, plus a sneak peek of the samples.
A Handspun ‘Love Note’ Sweater
Knitting the Love Note sweater by Tin Can Knits, using handspun yarn held double with mohair. Includes images of extreme sweater surgery some viewers may find disturbing!
The Herring Spinning Wheel
A British design classic with echoes of Eames. Although less than practical in some respects, this wheel holds a special place in my heart.
