Living the Home Life

My First Spinning Group Meeting

Hi, I'm back and I'm excited.  Tuesday, I went with my friend Lana, who you can see on my Wool-n-Wheels link, to my first spinning gathering.  I know I mentioned at some point that I was self taught, and it's starting to show.  I've been trying for some time to spin some really fine singles to try on the rigid heddle loom or con someone into knitting something lacy for me, and it just wasn't working out.  It wasn't spinning tight enough, and it definitely wasn't fine.  I tried going up with the tension, and fought my poor Matchless friend something awful.  She was snatching the fiber away from me or tearing it off (not snapping it), and I was working hard to treddle and practically bumping the orifice trying to keep up, and it was NOT fun.  So these kind ladies watched me, gave me tips, etc, and I just couldn't get it.  My back hurt, my frustration was mounting, and I was about ready to quit when I had Melissa, another friend and much more experienced spinner (she's not as cheap as I am and took lessons, smart lady), sit at my wheel and give her a run.  She initially had the same problem I did, and then she backed way off the tension and went to work.  She also gave me a bit of her fiber to try, which was less slippery than what I was working with, and the rest of the evening was great.  I was able to get about two feet back from the orifice and treddle with my toe.  Wow! I could even sit back in the chair.

I also got some drop spindle lessons.  For me, drop had always been the operative word here, so that was a treat.  I actually managed to get something spun on it for once.  I almost enjoyed it, and probably will when I get more practice.  Apparently pre-drafting is key here.

So, I am very delighted to be more connected in the spinning community, there are some great activities coming up, and I get to go to another meeting next month WHOOOO-HOOOOO!!!

Fantastic!

{ 04:43, 2006-Mar-23 } { Posted by spinninggrandma }

I enjoy meeting with other spinners as well. They are always enjoyable, and usually helpful, too. Even though I've been spinning for 30+ years, I can always learn something new.

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{ 04:47, 2006-Mar-23 } { Posted by candy }

Boy can I relate to your story! I am so glad that your evening ended on a much better note. Now as I was told, practice, practice, practice!

Hi

{ 07:27, 2006-Mar-23 } { Posted by MyThreeDaughters }

That is wonderful.

Spinning Group

{ 02:11, 2006-Mar-28 } { Posted by Greenberry }

It's wonderful how generous fiber people are, isn't it? I always enjoy the rare opportunities I get to meet with like minded people!