Who: Spinners in the Midatlantic region seeking in-person supported spindle instruction
What: The Gentle Art of Supported Spinning
When: Saturday, August 16, 1 – 4 p.m.
Where: Middletown Public Library, 31 E Green St, Middletown, MD 21769

Learn the gentle art of spinning on a supported spindle during this in-person class with me—TJ, a.k.a. the Peahen!

We will discuss different supported spindle styles, fiber types and preparation, how to start the spinning, drafting strategies, and plying.

Following a brief lecture & show-and-tell, we’ll start spinning! The class fee includes my exclusive “Supported Spinning Bootcamp in a Bag”, featuring fiber, leader and instructions to set you on the path to supported spinning success. Bring your favorite supported spindle and bowl. We will have other spindles available to sample as time permits.

Prior spinning experience (whether on wheels, drop spindles, or other tools) is required for this class.

Best of all, after the class, students will get to shop a private Spanish Peacock mini trunk show!

Here is some additional information if you’re planning to take the class.

Can I take the class even if I have no prior spinning experience?

While not strictly required, some spinning knowledge will help you understand the terminology used in the class. Additionally, if a student lacks prior experience, they may find themselves struggling with basic steps—drafting fiber, for example—instead of learning the mechanics of operating the supported spindle.

Will there be spindles available to borrow during the class if I don’t already have one?

Most people who sign up for the class already have a spindle (or several) and have been trying to learn on their own. But someone completely new to supported spinning is welcome as well! If you don’t have a supported spindle—or want to try something different—I will have loaners spindles and bowls for the class.

Do I need to bring my own fiber to the class?

Your class materials kit includes one ounce of fiber specifically selected for learning supported spinning. You’re welcome to bring your own fiber as well, but it is not required.

How much of the class is hands-on versus lecture?

Based on feedback from previous classes, this new and improved session will focus primarily on actual, hands-on practice versus lecture or show-and-tell. However, students are welcome to ask questions at any point during the class.

What topics will the class cover?

The class will include the following subjects:

Choosing a supported spindle
Selecting a bowl that works for you and your spindle
Fiber types and prep
Starting the fiber
Park and draft spinning
Continuous spinning
Cop winding strategies
Plying
Troubleshooting
Care and feeding

PLEASE NOTE: The class will only cover the basics about choosing a supported spindle: weight, length, and spindle style. I can—and will!—talk for hours about the subject, but that won’t leave enough hands-on practice time. However, because the information is so important, I’ve bundled everything I’ve learned through trial and error into an online mini-course. Students of the in-person class get 20% off, using this link: https://thepeahenspod.gumroad.com/l/hplptx/z64w1ux You can read a description of the online class here, but make sure to use the link above to get your discount!

Are food or drink allowed during the class?

Water and a small snack are permitted in the library meeting room. We ask that you please consider your classmates and other library patrons and dispose of any mess or waste appropriately.

Will the class take the whole three hours?

The class will last as long as the students need it to! Generally the final hour (3 p.m. to 4 p.m.) provides time for Q&A and time for a private Spanish Peacock trunk show. If you need to leave before then, you can contact me afterwards if you still have questions or need troubleshooting help.

What is the best way to stay in touch?

Students will get added to my newsletter, which I will use to send important announcements and updates about the class. This newsletter will have my email address, which you can use to send any questions you may have leading up to the class. You can also join the Spanish Peacock Discord! We have a separate area, called a “channel,” specifically for in-person classes. This also allows class attendees to talk to each other.