When I was at Fancy Fibers in Farmersville last Spring, I splashed out on a 5lb bag of Rambouillett Wool Roving. It is seriously a life-time supply! I have enjoyed practicing distaff spinning with the soft and squishy stuff.
I am using a hand-turned distaff that I bought from White Rock Weaving before Anna retired. The spindles are made by Caroline Hershey. They are light and easy to use. They come with pewter whorls that can be removed when the cop of wool is heavy enough to keep momentum going. (Cop comes from the Old English for a Mountain top).
I volunteered to do a demo of distaff + spindle spinning at the Mountain Valley Wool Festival in Santa Fe, NM next month. I always get a kick out of spinning in public, folks (kids in particular) ask the best questions.
I love festivals of any kind, but I have never attended a wool festival. Therefore, I am looking forward to learn a lot from the spinners, weavers and shepherds who will be there for the two day event. I also signed up to participate in one workshop. My first time (in ages) to be participating in a workshop as a learner.
The next World History of Textile Arts Workshop will be September 18th (originally scheduled for September 4th). There are still some seats available!
The next Plop-Down Sunday is October 23rd from 4:30-7pm There is a sign-up slot on the Oil & Cotton website. I am adding a small fee to cover costs.
Oil and Cotton has A LOT of Textile Workshops on the calendar this Fall. Check them out: felting, weaving, stitching, spinning and more fun stuff!
Let me know if you have any questions!
In text message, Vickie asked me about selecting a spindle. I recommend beginning with the well made, light weight Modified Tibetan Spindle from Dancing Goats (Etsy). It is a perfect learning tool.