My Spinning Technique
As a mostly self-taught spinner, I honestly never know if my spinning technique is good, bad or somewhere in between.
No Spinning Police To Judge My Spinning Technique
Hopefully, spinning is like knitting. There really is no “right way” to spin. And to be honest, unless someone could explain how my method of spinning could be modified to make a better yarn, I wouldn’t be willing to change.
After I posted the time-lapse video of me spinning in the last blog entry, Jesse left a comment on YouTube that I spin very fast. I recognize that he was joking. But I really do spin rather fast. Here’s a short video briefly describing my method of spinning yarn.
The only drawbacks I’ve ever had with this method is a less-than-perfect consistency of yarn and twist. But I’ve used my handspun in many projects over the years. And I’ve like the results.
Any thoughts? Helpful hints?
Current Spinning/Knitting
Thanks, in part, to the speed with which I spin, I was able to finish the first bobbin of singles. And start the second one.
This is the American Jacob fleece (from a local sheep named Minette) that I’m carding and spinning “in the grease.” I’m very much looking forward to seeing the resulting two-ply yarn after it’s washed.
I’ve also finished a third shallow triangle scarf and started a fourth.
I’m quite pleased with the colorway for the completed scarf. The newly started scarf…not so much. But I know there are those who will like it.
Hi, Joe,
I think the thing with spinning (and knitting) is that if you are getting results that please you, that’s all that matters. If you aren’t, and wonder why, there is a lot of information out there on techniques and theory that you can try. I have been spinning for about 10 years and was getting some nice, pretty consistent yarn. Last year I went to SOAR for the first time (if you’ve never been and can do it, I highly recommend it) and what I learned blew my mind. Since I came back I’ve been putting some of the techniques I learned to use and have been able to be far more intentional with my spinning. Keeping track of measurements like WPI and TPI and grist and all is not for everyone, but I found it informs my process which gives me control of my product. The only “should” with this stuff is that it should be enjoyable.
(On one specific note, which you probably already know, is that the short, forward draw makes for a more worsted yarn, whereas the long draw makes for a more woolen style. Of course, that also depends on the fiber you’re using and how it was prepared, combed vs. carded, etc.)
Thank you Alice…a succinct summary of much of what I consider when I’m spinning. Years ago, I was watching someone spinning and counting her twist as she made singles and did the same when she was plying to get a consistent and balanced yarn. I know that I will never do that. And on the other hand, I’ve watched guys spinning at the Men’s Knitting Retreats and picked up some ideas to hone some of my skills.
You and Ronnie got it just right…make sure primarily that it’s enjoyable.
Do what makes you happy and enjoyable.