Long draw... Learning curve

The long draw method of drafting creates a Woolen yarn that is area fluffier and warmer then a worsted draft method like short forward. When I watched people doing the long drive before I had my wheel it looked a little intimidating. It looked like it would require a lot of rhythm and controlling the speed of not only your feet but both of your hands independent of each other.

Since I've tried it out I realized all that is true! But it's not something to be intimidated by, it's actually super fun, and you just feel it, and you adjust what your doing, and you keep going and eventually you've spun up eight ounces of wool and you are totally hooked! Lol

Remember when I told you about craftsy? There are a few classes on spinning that helped me so much! You should consider trying out the unlimited subscription or simply purchasing a class a la cart. You won't be disappointed!

Better than a sweater sleeve

I actually did knit one sleeve of the February Lady sweater the other night like I said I would. But I got something even more exciting than a whole basket full of sweater sleeves! Say hi to Isabel (please ignore the messy living room floor behind her!!!)

She's so amazing! I have wanted a spinning wheel for so many years. Isabel (named by her first owner, you can't change that stuff!) is an Ashford Kiwi. Single Drive, Scotch Tension, absolutely beautiful. She had a custom paint job, as you can see. That may or may not stay, but for right now I'm perfectly happy!

I've spun on a drop spindle a little bit here and there. I always enjoyed it, but never got into plying with it because it was very cumbersome to me, and frustrating. I cannot wait to fill my second bobbin on Isabel and ply! I also joined Craftsy Unlimited so that I could do a beginner spinning class. I'll start the class tonight.

If you have never heard of Craftsy, you really should poke around the site. Its the coolest thing. You can purchase classes on almost anything you can imagine! You watch the videos, get class materials, and can ask the instructor questions. Best of all, you own the class after you buy it, and can watch it again and again and again. This may not be true for Craftsy Unlimited, but I haven't looked into the exact details yet.  I'll let you know about the class when I'm done with it.

Do you have a wheel? What one? Any tips? Tricks? Advice? Leave it in the comments please!