Events

About this class:Based on an article written for Ply Magazine, we will explore multiple fibers of all types individually to experience how they behave ‘across the wheel’. In this class we will start in our comfy Merino box and then blast into the world of unusual fibers made by plants, animals, (and maybe even scientists!) discovering the attributes we are looking for to add some zest to our spinning and maybe even to blend with some of our favorite ‘wheelhouse’ fibers. Students are encouraged to bring blending boards and hand cards to experiment with blending fibers in the final portion of the class. Level: Beginner What you’ll need to bring to class: Students should make arrangements to bring (or borrow) a working spinning wheel or spindles.

About this class:Ever gone to a fiber festival, somehow blacked out and found a fleece in your car when you got home? Have you wondered a fleece show and seen an inexpensive fleece and thought “It’s so cheap! I could totally process that myself!” only to shove it in the garage because it was a daunting task and you lost your nerve? Join us as we discuss the what, where and how of fleece selection, and then practice scouring wool together. We WILL likely get wet, so wear old clothes, but we WILL have fun discussing methods for scouring and getting confident with the process of removing lanolin without accidentally creating felt. Students are encouraged to bring samples of fleeces in their collections to discuss with the class. Have a problem fleece you’re trying to save? Maybe we can help! Just need someone to ooo and aaaah over it so you get motivated again? We can do that too! Level: Beginner What you’ll need to bring to class:Old clothes and shoes you don't mind getting wet, any samples or fleeces you've purchased or been given that you'd like to evaluate (not mandatory!)

3-Hour Seminar We will experience several breeds of “Primitive” style sheep. Included will be some you may have worked with before and some you may never have heard of yet! Amy scours the fields looking for oddball rare breeds to bring to class and she hopes you’ll find a new favorite! We will start with her favorite primitive which is from a lovely island off the coast of Virginia, and talk about the history and attributes of these sheep and their wool. Get a sneak peek of this session! Watch the Session Spotlight Video. Download Supply List Required Equipment: Spinning wheel, e-spinner, or spindle and basic fiber prep equipment Prerequisite Skills: Must be able to spin & ply a basic yarn Registration Fee: $76 with CVP or $103 without Materials Fee: $25 Skill Level: Intermediate

Ever wanted to experience ALL the rare breeds of sheep ALL AT ONCE? This class will come close! We will start with the finer of the rare breeds and “trek” through the primitive, the medium and the longwools, while discussing their history and applications for today. We will discover new breeds we’ve not worked with before, as well as some new favorites and some fleece that is just begging to be blended with silk or camelid to make an awesome yarn. Our goal is to journey together to explore new-to-you breeds and find a few fiber ‘destinations’ you’d like to revisit, whether you are a spinner, knitter, crocheter, or weaver. Location Sheep to Shawl Barn Back Note: All classrooms are on the Dixon May Fairgrounds, 655 S 1st St, Dixon, CA, and students will get free admission on the day of their workshop(s). Experience Level Beginning Level Skills Knows how to spin and ply OR can be knit/crochet/weave (pin-loom) Materials instructor will supply for students handout, raw fleece Students need to bring Spinners: any basic fiber prep equipment you have – flicker, hand cards, combs – as well as a working spinning wheel or spindles. Knitters or Crocheters: needles or hooks appropriate for DK/Worsted weight yarn