This class is dedicated to creating space for LGTBQIA2S+ community members to explore a new craft with new friends, and is taught by Rowan Green, a queer transman.
Handspinning is for everybody! Come relax and learn this ancient craft in supportive queer and gender diverse community.
Join us for a two-day immersion introduction to the art and craft of spinning yarn. Students will learn about the different kinds of wheels available, how to choose the right one for their body and needs, and sample some of the different spinning fibers available. We will begin with lap spinning and progress from there to using a drop spindle. Then we will learn the parts of a spinning wheel and how to maintain and operate it. By the end of the first day, students will be spinning their own yarn.
On the second day, spinners will begin to refine their technique, learn how to make a center-pull ball on their hands, and learn to ply to create a balanced yarn. We will introduce some of the tools that fiber artists employ, such as a niddy-noddy and nostepinne. Students will leave the class with a handout filled with resources for connecting with the spinning community and their very first handspun yarn.
Ashford Traditional spinning wheels are provided by the school, but students are encouraged to bring their own wheel if they own one and would like guidance. If you plan to bring your own spinning wheel, please contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org. Rowan will help you assess whether your wheel will meet your in-class needs.
All beginners are welcome. No prior knowledge is required, however, this course is a great follow-up to the Drop Spindle for Beginners class. Students should wear clothes that can get a little dirty from wool. Bring water, snacks, and anything you need to feel comfortable sitting for the day. Most of all, bring your queer joy!
Sliding scale payment options are made possible in part by public funding through Inspire Olympia. There are 4 payment options available: $165, $125, $65, $20. If you would like to select $125, $65, $20, please create a student account here (if you haven't already), and then email us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org so we can provide some quick assistance with registration.
