Hand-spinning Wool

Course Description

In this workshop we’ll cover the basics of spinning wool on a medieval-style notched hand spindle. Included is a brief talk on the history of hand-spinning and information about wool and fleece. The latter includes the basics of sorting (skirting) a fleece, washing (scouring) and fibre preparation (carding and combing).

Participants will learn how to handle/twirl their hand-spindle, which is a bottom-whorled spindle, using the ‘direct hand’ method. They will practice spinning initially with a small section of wool so that they learn to draft and creating a twist.

Once people feel confident with their spindles, we’ll add distaffs: how to dress them and spin from them. We’ll finish up the workshop with information on setting the twist and plying the yarn.

Students will get to keep the spindle and distaff they use during the workshop and will be given a small booklet on the basics covered in this workshop.

The Tutor (about)

Carey Fleiner is a Senior Lecturer in Roman History at the University of Winchester.

She is accomplished in spinning, weaving, nalbinding, and other textile practices, and has a wide experience of public speaking and demonstrating these arts/skills at heritage sites both nationally and internationally.

She frequently demonstrates at Fishbourne Roman Palace as a Roman with hand-spinning, nalbinding, sprang, and the warp-weighted loom; and has led workshops on these crafts. She is a member of Heritage Crafts. She is on the Speakers’ list for the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners, and Dyers and also a new speaker for the Arts Society.

Participant Information

Places are limited to 10 participants. All materials will be supplied.

Fee & Refreshments

£70 per person, including tuition, tea and coffee. Please let the Museum know in advance if you have any dietary requirements. You may bring a packed lunch or the cafe will be open.