This intensive multi-day spinning workshop is designed to elevate your fiber artistry. We'll delve deep into the fundamentals and nuances of drafting, exploring both short draw for fine, strong yarns and long draw for airy, woolen styles. Explore the art of plying, learning the classic 2-ply method for balanced yarns and the captivating chain plying technique for unique textures and self-striping effects. Finally, unleash your creativity with a dedicated session on blending, where you'll discover the magic of the blending board to create custom colorways and fiber preparations, transforming raw materials into personalized spinning treasures. 

Beth’s passion for fiber arts was ignited when her mother taught her how to crochet in 2012.  Soon after that, Beth discovered her local yarn store, Tempe Yarn & Fiber and learned how to knit and spin.  Since 2019, Beth has shared her knowledge and enthusiasm as the spinning instructor at Tempe Yarn & Fiber, guiding students through the transformative process of creating yarn from raw fiber. Her patient and encouraging approach empowers spinners of all levels to unlock their creative potential and experience the joy of crafting unique, handspun yarns. Beth fosters a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Whether you're a new spinner eager to explore the basics or a seasoned crafter looking to refine your skills, Beth will guide you on a fulfilling spinning adventure.

Monday Evening:

Check in to your room starting at 3pm. Dinner will be served at 5pm followed by social time.

Tuesday - Thursday; Daily: Breakfast served at 9am, Lunch at Noon and Dinner at 5pm.

Friday: Breakfast will be served at 9am. Retreat will conclude after lunch. Check out of room by noon, but attendees are welcome to hand around to finish up and work on projects following check out. 

Tuesday: Worsted vs Woolen

The day will be spent exploring the differences between worsted and woolen spun yarns with a majority of the time spent practicing different drafting techniques including short draw, long draw and spinning from the fold.

-Characteristics of each type

-Fiber preparation

-Short draw vs. long draw

-Spinning from the Fold

Wednesday: Blending Basics and Beyond 

Dive into the fascinating art of fiber blending and discover the endless possibilities for creating unique yarns. You will learn essential blending techniques, empowering you to customize your fibers like never before.

-How to load a blending board

-Different methods for removing fiber from the blending board

-How to create custom blends and gradients

Thursday: Plying Techniques

Learn to control tension and twist for balanced yarns.  Explore traditional two-ply and three-ply yarns in addition to chain plying and cable plying.

-Traditional two ply and three ply, chain plying 

-Cable plying

-Andean Bracelet

Friday: Wrap Up Loose Ends & Finishing Techniques

Our final session will be spent wrapping up any loose ends from the previous sessions.  Time permitting we will discuss how to finish yarns as well as how to determine other characteristics about your yarn

-Steaming vs. bath
-Calculating yardage
-Determining wraps per inch

During the week there will be plenty of time to have access to your own personal spinning coach.  The instructor will be available to assist you in fine tuning your spinning skills and answering your questions to help you explore the art of spinning.