Hand Spinning Basics — Beginner Class This hands-on class introduces the fundamentals of hand spinning for complete beginners. You’ll learn how to prepare fiber, draft, and spin continuous yarn using a drop spindle and wheel. The course emphasizes practical skills, safety, and simple techniques to continue practicing at home.

Who it’s for

• Complete beginners with no prior spinning experience

• Crafters interested in wool, alpaca, or blended fibers

• Anyone wanting to explore making their own yarn for knitting, crochet, or weaving

What you’ll learn

• Fibre basics: types of fibre, staple length, and preparation methods (carding, combing, pre-drafting)

• Equipment overview: drop spindle parts, whorl types, and spindle handling

• Spinning technique: forward and backward draw, consistency and controlling thickness, adding twist

• Ply basics: plying two single strands to make balanced yarn

• Finishing: setting twist

• Troubleshooting common issues: overtwist, thick/thin spots, breakage

• Simple projects: small sample skeins to take home

Class format

• Duration: 6 hours/10am - 4pm

• Group size: up to 3 students for individual attention

• Structure: brief demo, guided practice with one-on-one coaching

• Materials: students receive a basic drop spindle, spinning wheel and a small starter bundle of fibre for class use; additional fibre available for purchase during class

What to bring

• Comfortable, close-fitting clothing (avoid long scarves or loose sleeves)

• Notebook and pen for notes

• If you already own a spindle, wheel or favorite fibre, bring it along

Instructor: Led by Sanda King, an experienced spinner with years of teaching experience in community classes and workshops. Instruction is patient, step-by-step, and tailored to each learner’s pace

Cost: €85