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Stitching & Crafting Room:  WOO HOO I'm spinning now!!!  |
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KarenP
True Blue Farmgirl
666 Posts
Karen
Chippewa Falls
Wisconsin
USA
666 Posts |
 Posted - May 19 2010 : 3:50:19 PM
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I just started spinning fiber for the first time last night.
My yarn is way overspun, but I'm happy I was able to do it at all.
I'm just so excited, I hope this becomes my new addiction!
Hopefully I can spin another bobbin full tonight and ply them tomorrow!
Maybe even make something!
I'm doing the happy dance
Karen
Sorry the picture is so bad the camera is not long for this world.
"Purest Spring Water in the World" |
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emsmommy5
True Blue Farmgirl
1547 Posts
Angie
Buckley
WA
USA
1547 Posts |
Posted - May 19 2010 : 4:23:46 PM
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How exciting!!! Spinning is on my bucket list, right after learning to play the fiddle. =)
Do what you love, love what you do. |
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maggie14
True Blue Farmgirl
6784 Posts
Hannah
Washington
USA
6784 Posts |
Posted - May 19 2010 : 6:04:03 PM
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I am so excited for you Karen! I really want to learn too.
Hugs,
Channah
Farmgirl sister #1219
Just a small town country girl trying to live her dreams. :) |
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Marybeth
True Blue Farmgirl
6418 Posts
Mary Beth
Stanwood
Wa 98292
USA
6418 Posts |
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Kerbear
True Blue Farmgirl
261 Posts
Kerry
Middle
Tennessee
USA
261 Posts |
Posted - May 19 2010 : 6:26:28 PM
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That is awesome, Karen! Are you self taught? What types of fibers are you spinning? Its such a nice color.
~Kerry Anne
Farmgirl Sister #975 |
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Aunt Jenny
True Blue Farmgirl
11381 Posts
Jenny
middle of
Utah
USA
11381 Posts |
Posted - May 19 2010 : 7:06:28 PM
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How fun Karen. YOu will find spinning so relaxing. I love it!
Jenny in Utah
Proud Farmgirl sister #24
Inside me there is a skinny woman crying to get out...but I can usually shut her up with cookies
http://www.auntjennysworld.blogspot.com/ visit my little online shop at www.auntjenny.etsy.com |
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Bart
True Blue Farmgirl
115 Posts
115 Posts |
Posted - May 20 2010 : 06:50:31 AM
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YooHoo!! welcome to another wonderful addiction. I've been spinning a long, long, long time (read old old old.. lol).
It's really fun, isn't it. Don't worry about it being 'overspun' - when you ply it (2 or 3) it'll relax. can't wait to see your first skein of yarn.
PS * be very very careful! dyeing and weaving tend to follow.....
bwah ha ha ha ha |
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Marcy
True Blue Farmgirl
2701 Posts
Marcy
Tiverton
Rhode Island
USA
2701 Posts |
Posted - May 20 2010 : 10:05:32 AM
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Beautiful! I want to learn how so bad. Love the color.
Farmgirl #170
Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give...Eleanor Roosevelt
http://marcysworldofcreativity.blogspot.com/
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - May 22 2010 : 07:41:57 AM
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CONGRAT'S Karen
It is addictive but what an addition... I spin for a living and each time I sit before my wheels it is like my soul opens and the reason why I am on the planet shows itself...
Don't worry about the overspin you can get some of that out if you ply it back onto itself. Also that overspun can be used to make a sprial or beehive yarn. For now just enjoy the process and it will all work itself out.
Kepp sharing the pictures no matter what - I just spun last night some incredible light coral fiber - it is 25% wool, 25% mohair and 50% bamboo - tonight I will ply them and set the twist - I hope to get pictures up on my blog by Sunday if you wish to take a peak. I am also running a Free Shipping event on my blog for those who register as a follower. I will also be having a give a way for follower this coming week. O.K. enough shameless plugs - Keep Spinning and Sharing...
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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JudyT
True Blue Farmgirl
196 Posts
Judy
Southwest
Wisconsin
USA
196 Posts |
Posted - May 22 2010 : 07:47:57 AM
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That is something I would love to learn to do.
Judy~Farmgirl Sister #599
I was born a city girl, but I'm a "farmgirl" at heart, sharing my life at...http://dailyyarnsnmore.com
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KarenP
True Blue Farmgirl
666 Posts
Karen
Chippewa Falls
Wisconsin
USA
666 Posts |
Posted - May 24 2010 : 4:49:32 PM
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Well I made my first skein of 2 ply!
I wanted to see what was happening while plying so I used the brown single and spun an off white to ply with it.
again sorry for bad photo!
It's only about 25 yards, but it is something of a test for me.
I can see this being a real addiction,"can't find what you like at the yarn store? no matter spin it yourself!"
I like that idea!
Karen
"Purest Spring Water in the World" |
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Karrieann
True Blue Farmgirl
1900 Posts
Karrieann
Northeast
Georgia
USA
1900 Posts |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
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Keeper of the Past
True Blue Farmgirl
925 Posts
Sarita
Battle Creek
Michigan
USA
925 Posts |
Posted - May 24 2010 : 8:32:39 PM
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Way to go Karen, you have just started a long journey and dyeing, weaving, knitting, buying wool, then buying sheep, Alpaca, or Llamas, it just keeps consuming your life...but it is a wonderful trip!
Your 2 ply looks really nice. Hope you find peace and joy spinning!
How will you use your new yarn?
Sarita
www.coffmanspinningcfarm.blogspot.com
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so.....
'Love the people who treat you right Pray for the ones who don't.
"A happy heart makes the face cheerful..." Proverbs 15:13
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KarenP
True Blue Farmgirl
666 Posts
Karen
Chippewa Falls
Wisconsin
USA
666 Posts |
Posted - May 25 2010 : 6:30:37 PM
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Karrieann & Grace
Yes, it's a Babe Fiber Starter(used).
Kind of an ugly duckling and gets no respect when mentioned to some spinners, but I figure it's what comes off of it, that's important. My first yarn is home processed roving, heather brown wool and off white wool I got from a friend.
Sarita
I can see this slippery slope of buying wool, then dyeing myself, then looking for a farm to raise animals for fibers.
My first goal is get proficient enough to spin Golden Retriever "down" I've been saving from my pal Sierra.
I'm amazed as I start to get a rhythm, how calming it can be.
No plans for first skein, yet.
Thanks for all the support!
Karen
"Purest Spring Water in the World" |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - May 26 2010 : 07:25:36 AM
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All I can say about spinning is when I learned it 14 years ago it was like finding my missing part - it has been my souls dance and life falls away when I am spinning. Some may see it as just another craft but for a few of us it is why we are here. I know way too heavy but it is the truth for me.
Keep it up and never put any thought into what other's might say about the BABE - I have sold many, taught hundreds of students on them and still give mine a spin every once and a while. One thing you can do to jazz it up it spray paint it then do some embellishments on it to make it your own. Either way enjoy the sweet thing and it will assist you in making wonderful yarn.
Keep those feet and hands moving..
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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Beverley
True Blue Farmgirl
2707 Posts
Beverley
atlanta
Michigan
USA
2707 Posts |
Posted - May 27 2010 : 8:47:27 PM
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ok gals, what is this babe fiber starter. I sheared my animals this year and want to wash and card it and then I am determined to learn to spin. but I don't want to spend a lot at first. could you explain who it is by and how much they usually cost?? and BTW your yarn looks great that you spun.!!!!
Folks will know how large your soul is by the way you treat a dog....Charles F. Doran
beverley baggett Beverley with an extra E...
http://bevsdoggies.googlepages.com/ |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - May 29 2010 : 07:27:23 AM
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I might suggest first starting with a drop spindal - you can get a great on for under $30.00 and I start my student on that first - your get to perfect your drafting, spinning and twist without adding those feet. Also you will then see if you really love spinning. Folks say that it is slower but I found since it is so portable I can do my spinning anywhere including in a movie theater, while at lectures and even standing on long lines. Once you learn that skill well then you can purchase a wheel and the Babe I think runs around under $200.00. You might also keep your eyes open on the fiber trade lists and even craiglist. Hope that helps some but if you need more info just sing out.
Have a great day ladies and keep those hands and feet busy.
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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Beverley
True Blue Farmgirl
2707 Posts
Beverley
atlanta
Michigan
USA
2707 Posts |
Posted - May 29 2010 : 09:36:20 AM
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thanks for the info grace, I have done a drop spindle and now I would like to move up to a spinning wheel. but I would like to start with an inexpensive one. I have to clean and card my fiber first and then I will be ready this year. hehehehehehe
Folks will know how large your soul is by the way you treat a dog....Charles F. Doran
beverley baggett Beverley with an extra E...
http://bevsdoggies.googlepages.com/ |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - May 29 2010 : 12:15:30 PM
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Congrat's on the drop spindal the I might suggest just go to BABE's website and they have great information there along with many types of wheels and price ranges. You can also maybe go to some fiber festivals to try and purchase a wheel. I know that when I had extra wheels I would bring them to the larger shows and would have them sold in a matter on an hour or so - great place to get deals. I purchase extra's there for my students to use while taking lessons from me. Also, some guilds will have lending wheels...
I wish you much success...
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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KarenP
True Blue Farmgirl
666 Posts
Karen
Chippewa Falls
Wisconsin
USA
666 Posts |
Posted - May 29 2010 : 3:55:43 PM
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Beverley,
I really was bad at drop spindle, but really wanted to try a wheel before I gave up entirely.
I was leaning towards a Ashford Kiwi, but really didn't have the funds for an "IFY" new pass-time.
I had seen the Babe on the Woolery website and others, but I really wanted a wood wheel (I love wood things).
When I was analyzing the situation, I decided if the tool works, it doesn't have to be beautiful.
I lucked out and found a used on on craigslist, but I think I would have bought a new after checking on Ravelry and the great yarns people were making on their Babe.
Here is mine...
and my current spinning...
from my roving stash...
Babe's site is
http://www.babesfibergarden.com/
hope this helps...
Karen
"Purest Spring Water in the World" |
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farmallgrl
True Blue Farmgirl
483 Posts
Angela
Westminster
MD
USA
483 Posts |
Posted - May 29 2010 : 6:42:36 PM
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Karen, I spin an an Ashford Kiwi. I started on that and have grown well with it. I think it is a great wheel to expand on. I also have a saxony style antique "Quebec" wheel that I love also. Many people say that the Kiwi is for beginners, but with optional attachments, you can grow woth this wheel also. I found a great deal in our local classifieds after our sheep and wool festival. I was able to get 2 (thats right2) kiwi wheels, 2 regular lazy kates, a precision (tensioned) lazy kate and 2 niddy noddys all for 400.00. I am so glad I have them now, as I dont have the funds to buy yarn right now. You are right, you just sit down and spin what you want.
If you like it now, it only gets easier and that much more of an addiction...but it is soooo fun and relaxing:)
Angela
Farmgirl Sister #337
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KarenP
True Blue Farmgirl
666 Posts
Karen
Chippewa Falls
Wisconsin
USA
666 Posts |
Posted - May 31 2010 : 03:39:24 AM
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Angela,
What a deal you fell into! I know a few spinners who absolutely love their their Kiwi's.
Maybe down the road I find a good deal on one. But for right now, I couldn't be happier with the Babe I found.
We had a friend over yesterday, he's a woodworker and he was impressed with the Babe for balance and how quiet it was.
I really like how light it is, I take it outside and spin on the patio or shed porch or even in the grass
(sitting on board),I probably wouldn't be as carefree with a wooden wheel.
I know I have a waiting list too if I want to sell it (when I do get a wooden wheel) I have had 3 ask about it.
Karen
"Purest Spring Water in the World" |
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Keeper of the Past
True Blue Farmgirl
925 Posts
Sarita
Battle Creek
Michigan
USA
925 Posts |
Posted - May 31 2010 : 12:05:39 PM
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I really like the louets. They are very simple to operate and you can go from very thin yarn to very thick. Sometimes they go pretty cheap on EBay.
Sarita
www.coffmanspinningcfarm.blogspot.com
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so.....
'Love the people who treat you right Pray for the ones who don't.
"A happy heart makes the face cheerful..." Proverbs 15:13
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Beverley
True Blue Farmgirl
2707 Posts
Beverley
atlanta
Michigan
USA
2707 Posts |
Posted - May 31 2010 : 2:05:07 PM
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After seeing yours I realize I met the man that makes those at a fiber festival I went to last year and I was very impressed with them. I would like to get one to start on. who hoo I am going to have to look into them as soon as I get my wool washed and carded!!! oh I am getting excited now!!!
Folks will know how large your soul is by the way you treat a dog....Charles F. Doran
beverley baggett Beverley with an extra E...
http://bevsdoggies.googlepages.com/ |
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brightmeadow
True Blue Farmgirl
2045 Posts
Brenda
Lucas
Ohio
USA
2045 Posts |
Posted - May 31 2010 : 3:33:00 PM
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I've got a Wee Peggy (no longer made) and have been wondering about maybe trying another wheel - but last month I bought a copy of Spin-Off and saw the article on single drive or double drive - I feel like I haven't even mastered the wheel I have yet, since I set it up initially with Scotch tension (brake over the bobbin) and haven't changed in 20+ years to figure out how to use a double drive....
I can make yarn, but I feel so inadequate because I'm really lucky when it comes out - don't know much about how to control the twist, etc. I taught myself and therefore when I got something I could ply into a yarn, I quit learning about how to do more!
anyway, your yarn looks lovely, don't worry about overtwist as it will come out in plying.
Hope to see the results!
You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands - You shall be happy and it shall be well with you. -Psalm 128.2
Visit my blog at http://brightmeadowfarms.blogspot.com ,web site store at http://www.watkinsonline.com/fish or my homepage at http://home.earthlink.net/~brightmeadow |
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Stitching & Crafting Room: WOO HOO I'm spinning now!!! |
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WOO HOO I'm spinning now!!!
