Workshop Info

Colorful Camelids is a three hour class that focuses on the beauty and versatility of the fiber from alpacas, llamas and camels.

Class will include a brief history of the camelids explored and an in depth discussion of fleece types, grades, colors, characteristics, and fleece styles. We will further explore how the age of the animal, its health, shearing, housing, herd management and the environment will impact fleece quality. Many samples will be offered for review to back up the material presented.

Discussion and hands on learning will be used to allow students to develop skills to select the appropriate fleece for their desired use. Fleece grades and farm raised vs commerically available fleece will be discussed with samples of both being provided. Camelid fleece style varies greatly and exploring fleece styles will help the spinner make informed choices when choosing the yarn they wish to spin.

Participants will receive samples of fleece types and grades and practice spinning samples in both worsted and woolen depending on the appropriateness of the fleece sample. Spinning from raw fleece, the lock or cloud, carding, combing and fleece preparation will be discussed and hands on demonstrations will be given.

Participants will be provided both raw and processed fleece for spinning as well as popular blends. We will discuss the viability and use of these popular blends and students will be given samples prepared for them and then be encouraged to make their own samples with fiber provided by the instructor.

I have been a spinner for what seems a lifetime and a spinning teacher for the last 10 years working with both beginners and experienced spinners. I have personally raised fiber livestock , including camelids for 15 years making me uniquely qualified to teach this class.

Prerequisites:  All Levels Welcome - Must be able to spin a continuous stand on either a spinning wheel or drop spindle.

Email hiddenpastures@embarqmail.com with questions regarding class content.

There is a $20 material fee included in the price of registration.  It includes: Fiber samples from all camelids studied in their raw form, small farm hand processed and commercially processed as well as a minimum of four blends provided by the instructor.

Students must bring:  A spinning wheel in good working order and bobbins or a variety of spindle weights. Hand cards and a niddy noddy are nice to have but not required (the instructor will have some to borrow). The instructor will have a limited number of wheels that students may borrow.

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