Product Review

Spinning has changed since its upsurge in popularity some 15 or 20 years ago. Spinners want to know more than how to spin an adequate yarn; they want to know how to extend the range of yarns they can produce, what is happening as they spin, and something about the raw materials they turn into yarn. Spinning wheel manufacturers are responding to the more inquiring spinner by making wheels that can spin a wider range of yarns. But spinning books have not fully catered to this need for more detailed information. And spinners still rely on farming manuals and books by wool-classers for knowledge about wool, because little has been written from a spinner s point of view. This book is intended for spinners who have mastered the basic spinning techniques explored in Anne Field's Ashford Book of Spinning. It builds on those basics to further extend spinning techniques, to teach spinners to analyze fleeces with their end purpose in mind, and to help them get the best out of their spinning wheels. The first two chapters cover wool in detail, with many examples of fleece types from all over the world. Next, the functions of bobbin and flyer wheels are discussed in detail, and how to make the most of each wheel type. In the yarn design section, spinners are taken step-by-step through the process of spinning yarns of a pre-determined size and twist count, with this knowledge related back to the properties of the chosen fleece. There are detailed explanations of different spinning methods. Yarn on its own cannot achieve much; it needs to be knitted or woven into garments, rugs or fabrics. The book includes woven and knitted projects that suggest suitable and uses for handspun yarn. Spinning Wool: Beyond the Basics is an essential addition to the library of all spinners who want to get the best out of their craft.