Defining how you will use your Spinning Wheel is the key to a successful choice. The three main pointers are discussed in general terms below. First, decide on how much travelling the spinning wheel will do. Is it being carried around and taken by car and by air? Consider also whether the wheel will be […]
Many types of spinning wheels have developed over the centuries which can produce a yarn efficiently from local fibres. Historically a great many configurations of spinning wheel and flyer have been developed, and some of these are still available from craftsmen wheel makers. The common layouts are shown below along with comments on their strengths […]
The transformation of fibre into a yarn is a very satisfying process. Once the techniques have been mastered, it is very gratifying to watch a yarn form on the hand spindle or spinning wheel bobbin. There is an abundance of information available for beginners. The Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers is an […]
Fibres derived from plants are also known as cellulose fibres (except for Soybean which is a protein fibre, see below). These cellulose fibres are used in spinning and papermaking (using both the traditional technique and the silk papermaking technique), 3d embroidery techniques and feltmaking when combined with wool fibres or worked with a felting needle. […]
We’re often asked to recommend a book about specific crafts featured on the George Weil website. Anne Field‘s ‘Learn to Spin’ ticks all the boxes when it comes to learning everything you need to know about spinning a fibre to create a yarn. With easy-to-follow, step-by-step directions, Anne guides the novice spinner through all they […]
The Ashford Fringe Twister has been designed to make light work of making twisted fringe for handwoven garments, knitted scarves or for needle work projects – the finishing touch to your handmade items. You can also use the finge twister to create corded cotton, or to twist sliver prior to felting it. Features There are […]
To spin a light and lofty yarn fibres should be carded before spinning them. A drumcarder makes light work of this process and can also be used for creating blends of fibre such as the Merino Wool and Silk blend pictured below. The blends of fibre can be used by both spinners and felt makers. […]
We are often asked advice about the crafts advertised on our website. Whilst we have a good knowledge of most of the techniques, we cannot always claim to be experts. The traditional crafts of weaving, spinning and dyeing are championed by The Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers. The objectives of this Association […]
Hand spindles are an economical alternative to a spinning wheel and can create a passion for spinning in their own right. With a small amount of practice, the twisting of the fibre can create a beautiful, hand spun yarn. As the spindle is so portable you can practice your hand spinning very easily whenever you […]
When I walked into the warehouse this morning with Sharon’s cup of tea, I couldn’t resist coming back with the camera to photograph this assortment of coloured wool tops. Merino Wool Sharon was in the process of collating together the wool tops into a 1kg mixed bag of light colours. There are nine colours in […]
