Dive into the Magical World of Wool Spinning with Ashford Spinning Wheels
Have you ever admired the unique texture of handspun yarn or been mesmerised by videos of wool effortlessly transforming into fluffy clouds? If you’ve felt that spark of inspiration to create your own yarn, welcome to the world of wool spinning! This rewarding and surprisingly fun hobby allows you to transform raw fibres into something truly special.
At The Good Yarn, we’re here to help you with everything you need to jumpstart your spinning journey. From choosing the right fibre to mastering the art of drafting and spinning, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Choosing Your Wool for Spinning:
Merino and Corriedale Wool
The first step in spinning wool is selecting the right fibre. As a beginner, you’ll find Merino and Corriedale wool are often the most suggested.
Merino Wool
Merino Wool: Renowned for its incredible softness and smooth texture, Merino wool comes in a beautiful range of colours, both natural and dyed, allowing you to unleash your creativity right from the start.
Corriedale Wool
Corriedale Wool: Slightly less expensive than Merino, Corriedale offers a bit more “grip” during spinning, making it easier to control the fibres. It’s a fantastic option for beginners.
Specialty Spinning Fibres
Alpaca Wool:
Alpaca wool is a great choice for beginners due to its softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties. It’s stronger than sheep’s wool, providing durable yarns. However, beginners might find it helpful to blend alpaca with Merino for added elasticity. This will make it easier to spin.
Angelina Fibre:
Angelina Fibre: This shimmering fibre blends beautifully with wool, adding sparkle and texture without altering the softness. Spinners can use it sparingly for a subtle glimmer or more generously for a bolder effect. Angelina is heat-bondable, so it holds well in the yarn, making it a fun and versatile addition to your spinning projects.
Tussah silk
Tussah Silk: Tussah silk is a luxurious fibre with a natural, slightly golden hue. It’s harvested from wild silkworms, making it eco-friendly and more textured than mulberry silk. Tussah silk adds a beautiful sheen and strength to your yarns, perfect for projects requiring durability and elegance. When spinning, use a gentle touch to maintain its natural lustre and drape.
Linen
Linen: Linen is derived from flax plants. Its a strong and breathable fibre, ideal for summer garments. Spinning linen requires moisture, so keep your fingers damp to help manage the fibres and achieve a smooth, consistent yarn.
Mulberry silk
Mulberry Silk: Mulberry silk is the epitome of luxury, offering a fine, lustrous, and smooth spinning experience. It’s produced by domesticated silkworms fed on mulberry leaves, resulting in the purest white fibre. Mulberry silk adds incredible shine and strength to yarns, making it ideal for high-end garments and accessories.
Meet Your Spinning Wheel: Ashford Spinning Wheels
The magic of spinning wool lies in your spinning wheel. At The Good Yarn, we offer the entire range of Ashford Spinning Wheels, catering to every skill level and preference.
- Ashford Traditional Spinning Wheel: Perfect for beginners, this classic wheel is beloved worldwide for its intuitive features and versatility.
- Ashford Kiwi 3 Spinning Wheel: Compact and foldable, this wheel is ideal for spinning on the go, whether at a spinning group meeting or in a cosy corner of your garden.
- Ashford Joy 2 Spinning Wheel: Portable and compact, this wheel is great if you want to spin on the go or have limited space.
- Ashford Espinner: The Ashford e-Spinner is ideal for beginners due to its user-friendly design and adjustable speed settings, allowing focus on drafting without treadling. It’s compact and portable, making it easy to store and transport.
- See the full range of Ashford Spinning Wheels Here
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Ashford e-Spinner 3 – Includes carry bag, foot switch and fibre$879.00 inc GST -
Kiwi 3 Spinning Wheel Kit – Ashford$920.00 inc GST
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Traditional Spinning Wheel Kit – Ashford$1,135.00 inc GST
The Art of Drafting: From Fluffy Cloud to Twisty Thread
Drafting is the heart and soul of wool spinning. It’s the process of pulling out a small section of wool fibres and gently drawing them thinner while maintaining a consistent twist. It might sound daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. Think of it like gently pulling and stretching a piece of cotton candy.
Finding Your Twist: The Secret to Strong and Beautiful Yarn
Adding twist to your fibres transforms them from a fluffy mass into a sturdy yarn. The amount of twist determines the yarn’s properties. A high twist creates a strong and smooth yarn, while a low twist results in a more delicate and fluffy yarn. As a beginner, it’s helpful to start with a medium twist, ensuring your yarn is strong enough to handle without being too stiff.
Patience is a Virtue: Embrace the Slow Spin
There’s a natural urge to rush and create something beautiful quickly. However, when it comes to spinning, patience is your best friend. Focus on creating consistent and even yarn rather than speed. Think of spinning as a form of meditation, a wonderful way to unwind and focus on the present moment.
Practice Makes Perfect: Spinning Your Way to Success
Like any skill, spinning takes practice to develop. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t create a masterpiece on your first attempt. The key is to carve out some time each day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes, to practise your drafting and spinning technique.
Join a Spinning Community
Spinning is not just a solitary craft; it’s a vibrant community where you can share ideas, tips, and inspiration. Join your local spinning group (find a list of Australian Spinning Groups Here), participate in online forums (like our very own Good Yarn Online Group here), or attend local workshops to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Why Choose Ashford Spinning Wheels?
Ashford is renowned for its high-quality, durable spinning wheels that cater to both beginners and experienced spinners. The range available at The Good Yarn ensures you’ll find a wheel that suits your needs perfectly. Our commitment to craftsmanship and innovation makes Ashford a reliable choice for anyone eager to start their spinning journey.
Exploring Wool Fibres at The Good Yarn
Our selection of wool fibres is curated to provide spinners with the best quality and variety. Whether you’re aiming for a soft Merino yarn for a delicate scarf or a sturdy Corriedale for a cosy sweater, we have you covered.
Starting your spinning adventure is an exciting step into a world of creativity and tradition. By understanding the fibres, mastering your tools, and embracing the process, you’ll create beautiful, unique yarns that reflect your personal style. At The Good Yarn, we’re thrilled to support you every step of the way.
Happy spinning!