Intro to Spinning Yarn (Drop Spindle)| 2 Week Class

Learn the ancient craft of turning fiber into yarn by hand! In this 2-session workshop, you’ll discover the fundamentals of spinning with a drop spindle, guided step-by-step by experienced spinner and local fiber artist Ally. Perfect for curious beginners—no prior experience required.

What You’ll Learn

• Fiber basics: drafting, staple length, spin direction (S vs. Z), plies, yarn weights, worsted vs. woolen

• Practice spinning singles and winding onto your spindle

• How to check gauge, consistency, and twist

• Unwinding onto a ball or bobbin

• Introduction to plying

• Practice with different fiber types

• Wind yarn onto a niddy noddy, make a skein, and learn washing & “thwacking” for finishing

• Intro to spinning wheels, try one out and see what’s next in your spinning journey!

Class Details

• Dates: Choose from
  • Fridays, November 7 & 14 | 1:00–3:00 PM
  • Saturdays, October 18 & 25 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

• Sessions: 2 sessions per class (each 2 hours)

• Class Size: Limited to 3 students for lots of hands-on help

• Price: $120

• Pay-what-you-can seats available for low income students (email info@royalbeeyarn.com for a spot)

What’s Included

• A bundle of fiber (4 oz of Shetland and Corriedale wool)

• Expert guidance from a spinner with 15+ years of experience

Materials Needed

• A drop spindle (required). Bring your own or purchase one from the shop before class.

About the Teacher

Ally has been spinning for over 15 years and is also an avid knitter and dyer. As a beloved member of the local fiber community, she’s passionate about helping others discover the joy of making yarn by hand.