Gathering Wool
Gathering Wool offers opportunities to learn, discover and make together through fiber craft workshops and exploration gatherings. There’s a place for you here, whether you are new to spinning, knitting or other fiber crafts, or a seasoned artist. I’d love to have you join me to connect, create and explore together soon!
Wool workshops
Create your own yarn! What are the properties of wool? How does twist create yarn? We'll work step by step through the process of making yarn with a simple tool--the spindle. Participants will go home with supplies to continue, and the ability to make your own yarn. We'll start with a simple method called "park and draft", learn to make a single ply yarn, control the twist and diameter of your yarn, make a two ply yarn, and finish your final yarn. This includes two 90 minute sessions. Express your interest by filling out the contact form on this site and we’ll arrange a class.
Are you ready to learn to spin on a spinning wheel? In this two session workshop (3 hours each), we’ll learn how a spinning wheel works and how to create yarn with it. What are the properties of wool? How does twist create yarn? Participants can borrow a wheel for this workshop or bring their own. You’ll leave with wool roving to continue, and the ability to make your own yarn. Learn to make a single ply yarn, control the twist of your yarn, make a two ply yarn, and finish your final yarn. Express your interest by filling out the contact form on this site and we’ll arrange a class.
What are you ready for? If you’d like to set up one on one instruction in spinning, either beginning or next steps after beginning spinning, contact me to make arrangements. I am also able to help you with your knitting projects. Price: $40/hour. Express your interest by filling out the contact form on this site and we’ll arrange a time for you.
Why Gathering Wool?
While the phrase “gathering wool” has been used to describe unproductive daydreaming. I began to wonder, what if I learn to embrace slow craft, intentionality, thoughtfulness, curiosity and wonder? This soulful approach helps me to live on a more human scale.
I aim to gather the materials of my making thoughtfully from the plants, animals and people near us, being mindful of what is sustainable for the whole of the earth we make our home on.
As I gather with others and make, our craft connects us with each other across generations, cultures, and different perspectives around the commonality of making. Being connected enriches us all.
Upcoming Exploration Gatherings
What is an exploration gathering and how does it differ from a workshop? During an exploration gathering, we will explore a new technique or medium together. I may not have expertise in this area yet, but rather have lots of curiosity. I will research, gather the needed materials, and facilitate our time. We’ll expect to be learning together, everyone contributing their knowledge during the session.
Have you been curious about color blending in your spinning? Would you like to learn more about color? Me, too! In this gathering, we’ll blend wool and begin to spin yarn to create our own wool color wheels. I will have a drum carder and hand cards on hand. If you have your own, bring them along. We’ll share the tools we have among ourselves. Participants should be able to spin a yarn, but newly begun spinners are very welcome. We’ll meet at Lisa’s house in the Mission District of San Francisco Details provided upon sign up. Date to be announced soon. $35.
We’ll gather together, go for a walk, and create dye jars that you can finish off at home. I will show you the results of an Advent Dye calendar that I created a few years ago and share natural dye plant knowledge that exists among us. This is a playful exploration that is easy to set up and a gentle introduction to natural dyes. Choose from dyeing wool for spinning or mini skeins of yarn. Mordanted wool or yarn provided. We’ll meet up outdoors in San Francisco. Further details provided upon signing up.
When: Saturday, August 1, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Why make with our hands?
Creating connects us to a sense of something larger than ourselves, to the natural environment around us, and to people and traditions both near and far. It enables us to slow down, reflect, and find joy in the wonder of making something beautiful by hand.
Have a Question?
Are you interested in a workshop? Would you like to ask a question about Gathering Wool or have me teach in your venue? Let me know what I can do for you and I’ll get back to you soon.