My Most-Referenced Spinning Books
This post accompanies the video below in which I talk in depth about these books.
Links open in a new window. I receive commission for purchases made through Amazon links in this post. Kindle and physical versions may be offered — please ensure you’re buying the right one! :)
The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook by Deborah Robson and Carol Ekarius
Who’s it for? Anyone who works with a variety of animal fibres.
What’s the best part? The in-depth studies of over 200 breeds of sheep and other critters, complete with comprehensive photography and use cases.
Any down sides? Doesn’t cover fibre preparation in enough detail for a beginner to get started (but that’s not the point of the book).
The Field Guide to Fleece by Deborah Robson and Carol Ekarius
Who’s it for? Anyone who works with fleece from sheep.
What’s the best part? It’s a very portable, quick-reference guide to key sheep breeds, their fleece characteristics and usage.
Any down sides? Doesn’t cover all of the sheep breeds, or the camelids/other critters. Consider the digital version of The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook as an alternative.
The Spinner’s Book of Fleece by Beth Smith
Who’s it for? Those looking to start processing a variety of raw fleece
What’s the best part? Detailed information on how to process a fleece according to its type (fine, long wool etc.). A good introduction for beginners and a useful reference for everyone who works with raw fibre.
Any down sides? Some breeds covered may not be widely available to those outside North America, but there are plenty of other alternatives covered within each section.
The Spinner’s Book of Yarn Designs by Sarah Anderson
Who’s it for? Any spinner who wants to go beyond standard ply structures and into cables, crepes, bouclés and more.
What’s the best part? A huge variety of different yarn recipes with thoughtful notes about seemingly small details that can make a big difference, like the amount of tension on each single when plying.
Any down sides? Finished objects examples are not available for all yarn types but that’s a very small criticism.
Yarnitecture by Jillian Moreno
Who’s it for? Spinners who enjoy working with commercially-prepared fibre, especially hand-dyed tops. Or those who want to spin more intentionally.
What’s the best part? The structure provided to help guide your decisions so you end up with the yarn you want.
Any down sides? Knitting patterns take up about 1/3rd of the book. While they’re good examples of spinning yarn for a specific garment, I would have preferred more pages packed with Jillian’s wisdom!
51 Yarns to Spin Before You Cast Off by Jacey Boggs Faulkner
Who’s it for? Spinners who want to challenge themselves without much in the way of hand-holding.
What’s the best part? A spinner’s ‘bucket list’ with plenty of ideas to inspire you to spin outside your comfort zone. And cute illustrations.
Any down sides? Not a ‘how to’ guide, so each topic will probably require further research. Also some of the 51 yarns aren’t…. well… yarns. eg. “While at a retreat or event” and “With a group”.
