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August 15, 2005
Spinning? Not So Much
So, this spinning thing may not be for me. Either that or I'm just retarded. I tried. I really did. And for a minute it looked like it was going to work.
And then it became clear that it wasn't going to work at all.
I tried and tried and then just couldn't take it any more. For some reason my spindle wanted to spin the opposite way I wanted it to and it wouldn't spin without wobbling. Now, I know it's a good spindle because my secret pal sent it to me and she seems to know what she's talking about. So, clearly I'm doing something wrong. But for the life of me, I don't know what. I guess more practice is in order, but maybe another day.
After failing to spin brilliantly on my first try, what was I to do except knit some more on the shrug - that I can do. I'll spare you a photo because it looks just like it did yesterday only twice as long. I have about 20 inches and still have about 1/4 of the second ball. I may just have enough yarn, but I will reserve judgment on that until I see where I am after I finish the second ball. I'm keeping my fingers crossed just in case.
Have a great Monday (or at least try). See you tomorrow.
Comments
From what I understand, spinning is one of these things that's learned by watching someone else do it, that it's hard to learn it on your own or by reading about it. Of course I've never tried it, so I have no idea what I'm talking about :).
Posted by: grumperina at August 15, 2005 11:28 AM
You are braver than me, I don't even know what a spindle looks like. That's a fabulous color you're working with though.
Posted by: Lynette at August 15, 2005 12:19 PM
I agree with grumperina... I think it just takes a bit of watching and some practice... hang in there! Oh and I LOVE your little anklet socks from down below!
Posted by: Dani at August 15, 2005 1:55 PM
i *TOTALLY* understand what you mean about spinning. i could not get it to work. i would wound and wound and snap! or, it'll be twisting the wrong way and the spindle would drop. i am thinking of getting someone to show it to me.
Posted by: blossom at August 15, 2005 1:56 PM
Hmmm, this spinning thing is a mystery to me! I think its great that you are trying it.. maybe just takes practice?
Posted by: Diana at August 15, 2005 2:11 PM
I just got a spindle and some roving over the weekend and grrrrr I can't "get it" either.
Posted by: Betsey at August 15, 2005 2:20 PM
Check this site out. http://www.icanspin.com/
There are some videos that might be helpful.
Posted by: Secret Pal at August 16, 2005 7:23 AM
The most current issue of Spin Off magazine has a helpful photo essay on learning to spin with a drop spindle. But nothing is better than actually a short time of watching someone spin, if you can find a spinner near you.
Posted by: Cassie at August 16, 2005 7:46 AM
Oh don't feel bad at all, I had the same experience, and a very stupid moment, that my husband had to clarify for me. After an hour of annoyance I had to put it up, and get back to knitting, haven't gone back yet. I think I'm going to consider classes this fall and/or winter, that might be the key for me. Knitting I learned from a book, I think spinning is going to be different.
Posted by: Rebekah at August 16, 2005 8:24 AM
Try this: sit down, spin the spindle, then "park" it between your legs. NOW try drafting out some fiber, then let the spin run up. I found the spindle very hard at first, so you're not alone. You will get it. I'll email you some further hints. Loved the sherbet socks!
Posted by: Marcia at August 16, 2005 9:23 AM
Definitely, do what Marcia says -- "park and draft". Wheel spinning was a lot easier for me than spindle spinning. So much so that I haven't touched my spindle since I started wheel spinning! But definitely, draft a little, then add twist and when the spindle starts slowing down, stop it and draft a little more... repeat!
BTW, I loved your Lotus Blossom Shawl!!!
Posted by: Felicia from sweetgeorgia at August 16, 2005 10:38 AM
