Does anyone handspin?

[shell024]

What do you spin? I've been doing a little bit of research and trying to decide whether I really want to try it. I've heard that a single drive wheel would be best for beginners. Any tips on how to start out? Or any good links that you can point me to?

What is the difficulty level for learning and getting the swing of things?

[SleeplessMommy]

I spin! Years ago I took a week long class. I would suggest a class if you can find one at a local yarn store. Especially if they let you try many different types of wheels... so you can decide what you like.

Some points to consider:
* wool quality is important. I buy wool, wool/mohair and wool/silk roving. Some will be easier to spin than others. Fiber length, cleanliness, "crimp, stable length all affect your spinning. So try lots of different fiber.
*spinning fiber and felting fiber are (slightly) different.
* you can learn on a drop spindle, then upgrade to a wheel. I would spin as much as possible before buying the wheel.
* you can get equipment used... google "spinners and weavers housecleaning pages."
* If you want to do a very fine yarn, the very best wheel is probably the Schact. ($800+++) But it will last 30 years or more, and do almost anything. Some less expensive wheels are the Baynes, Lendrum, and Ashord Traveller. I would get one of the first 2, not the Ashford... its just very ordinary.
* you will want to get a catalog from Halcyon Yarn in Maine. To drool on the pictures!

Best regards, sleeplessMommy

[shell024]

wow, thanks for all those tips! I really appreciate it Not sure if they'd have a spinning class here (Guam ) or even a store dedicated to just yarn...but I sure hope there is! Otherwise, is learning on a drop spindle difficult to do with online or printed instructions? Maybe I'll buy a video. But thanks again for replying!

[flapjack]

Check out joy of handspinning and I can spin for video instructions. And I taught myself with a drop spindle