When I say “student” I’m not talking about enrolling in a program or class. I’m thinking more of a home study, self-guided type thing. Here’s the thing…I’m going to make up my own spinning program. Yes, I realize it will not be a real spinning master program. But I fully intend to challenge myself with techniques and give myself writing assignments, etc. I also plan to keep fiber samples and fiber descriptions/records in 3-ring binders much like a real master program.
I’m tellin’ ya, I really do need those 3 extra hours in a day.
Where to start? There will be no orientation with this course to get me started. No teacher to hand me a list of supplies, or a list of required reading. Thinking back on my college years I think the first step would definitely start gathering supplies and heading to the book store. Luckily I already have many of the needed supplies.
Here are some supplies I think I’ll need:
Books
Hand Cards
Flick
Comb
Spindle
Wheel
Fiber dye
General dyeing supplies
As many fibers as I can get my hands on
3-ring binder
Photo protector sheets
Cross Stitch floss cards
Index cards
Notebook
Small plastic zip bags
Tags (metal ring and “sale”)
Self-adhesive labels
Time
Note: I do not plan to purchase everything on this list at one time. As assignments are realized I will purchase necessary items to complete the assignments.
Secondly there needs to be required reading material and a first assignment. This is where I fall flat. If I don’t know where to start I don’t know what to assign. I have this amazing sampling of fibers just waiting to be spun but I don’t want to dive in until I have a proper application and clearer view of a beginning and end. I have some assignments that I know I will be preparing such as ply studies and dye (natural) studies. But where to begin…
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| 10 Breeds Sample |
I just had a thought, the fibers I currently own have been processed into top or roving, maybe I should start with spinning and dyeing them using acid dyes. As the course advances I’ll purchase unprocessed fleece/fiber and process it from fleece to finished yarn, including natural dyeing. Hmmm…sounds like a plan.
If anybody would like to join in with me on my spinning journey, drop me a comment and maybe we could start a Ravelry group (I’ve even thought of a name: Spin Drills). If not, you can check back here for updates on my progress.
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