Technically I have used a drop spindle before, but only because we had to in my Spinning 101 class a couple of years ago. I have absolutely not used a drop spindle since then.
Now I do understand the purpose for starting with a drop spindle, but it was very challenging. There's a lot going on when you're learning new skills. Even after we moved to the wheels, it took me a while to understand "drafting" and thus to be able to spin something that looked like yarn. Eventually, I "got" it and can now spin a consistent yarn.
I enjoy spinning with my wheel, but I have been wanting to try the drop spindle again. Only, I have been afraid. I would see the drop spindle in my office and remember the horribleness I created with one of it's brethren in my class. It's almost as if the sweet little thing was taunting me... Why are you afraid of me? I'm just a simple piece of wood. Mwahahahaha.
So I decided this year's Tour de Fleece plus a trip out of town was the perfect reason to overcome my fear with the drop spindle. Which means I have to decide which fiber I should use from my stash.
I will not use the Paco-Vicuna, Yak Down or Cashmere/Tussah Silk. These are all too wonderful for me to stand the thought of messing them up. I will use something else until I am comfortable with the drop spindle first.
I will most-likely use the Wool/Mohair blend. I have already spun two skeins of this wool, so I have a pretty good idea of how it will spin. I also have about 12 ounces left of this roving, so I wouldn't feel too bad if I messed some of it up.
3 comments:
So many beautiful choices...I can't wait to see what you produce.
Are you going to make something for Jacob with the Jacob roving?
Maybe...
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