Once you have clean fleece, what’s the next step? Best answer: It depends! What are the characteristics of the wool? What kind of yarn do you plan to spin, or what kind of project will you make?
Fiber prep is the key to spinning the yarn you want – and spinners have the advantage of designing yarns from the very beginning, with specific projects in mind.
Techniques learned in this class can also be used to ‘re-prep’ commercial top or roving for spinning a specific type of yarn, or because it has become compacted over time.
Get hands-on instruction in several wool processing techniques, using both standard and DIY hand tools. Learn how to open fleece with a flicker, practice using handcards in different ways, and find out how to comb safely and diz a worsted top. We will also discuss woolen and worsted (and the ‘semi’ variations) in preparation and spinning.
Participants may bring their own fiber to experiment with different tools and techniques, and various types of wool will be provided for student use. If time allows, students may wish to spin samples of their prepped fibers, and can bring their wheel or spindle to do so; this activity is optional!
Class will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 2 – 5 pm.
Instructor: Sharon Barnes
Class fee $40. Register online and submit $15 to reserve your spot. Bring the remaining $25 (cash, check or PayPal) to class.
Materials to bring (ALL OPTIONAL):
- CLEAN wool or other animal fiber – multiple types are fine
- Ideas or plans for specific yarns or projects
- Wheel or spindle for sample spinning, if desired
Instructor will provide:
- Tools and equipment
- Handouts
- Wool of different types
The location for all classes is the Fiber Arts Center of Wichita at 751 George Washington Boulevard.
Enter through the double door off Morris St. (south side of building).