'On The Bobbin' A Monthly Newsletter
Hello and a warm welcome to Issue 10 of our Newsletter On The Bobbin!
March is a time of gentle awakenings—the gardens are beginning to show their first shoots of green, and the fields will soon be alive with the soft bleats of new lambs exploring the world for the first time. There’s a sense of renewal in the air, and it feels like nature is inviting us to slow down, take notice, and celebrate the small joys of the season. Just like the first tender shoots, our creativity and projects are ready to grow after the quiet of winter.
This month, I’m sharing what’s been happening in the studio and what’s coming up with something for everyone.
Thank you for being part of this wonderful community—your enthusiasm, curiosity, and creativity make The Spinning Barn a truly special place.
If you are new to the newsletter I hope you will enjoy it and use it as another way for us to stay connected, to share ideas, and to remind ourselves that we’re part of a wonderful, woolly community. Here each month you can look forward to.......
Spinning inspiration and tips
A spotlight on a sheep breed
Upcoming workshop news
The Spinner’s Spotlight – where one of you shares your spinning story with our spinning community friends.
So, let’s step into spring together and see where our creativity takes us this month.
Theresa x
What's Happening at The Spinning Barn
February was a fairly quiet time here at The Barn. I took some time to spend with family over the school holidays and I even went out for lunch with friends - how civilised am I?!
Behind the scenes though my brain has been in full overdrive preparing for my second teaching trip to the Faroe Islands (where I shall be from March 1st - 8th)
I have also been finalising my plans for a hand spinning journal which has been a long time in the planning process but it suddenly dawned on me just how I wanted it to look for you to use to record all of your spinning projects. So more on that very soon.
There are little shoots in the garden signally the arrival of springtime's colourful flowers which also suggests the end to the darker days. Now that has to be something to look forward to.
I NEED YOUR HELP
As a totally separate piece of news I have also somehow taken on the planning of a really big project, and I mean really big! You may be familiar with the Longest Yarn project which is an incredible knitting display depicting War Word 2 and is really worth seeing. This year they are creating an enormous display of poppies which will all cascade from the Peterborough Cathedral in June. We are rather late to the game and I NEED YOUR HELP to knit or crochet a total of 1500 poppies and other flowers by the end of April.
I am sure you can imagine the enormity of this project but also just how very worthwhile it will be once complete so if you feel you could spare some time to knit or crochet as many poppies as possible I would be eternally grateful.
We require the poppies in red, yellow and purple (3 colours not multi - coloured!) all with black centres. Here is a link to 11 different knit and crochet poppies which you can choose from https://www.theknitcrew.com/11-free-remembrance-day-knit-poppy-flower-patterns/
We also require orange lily flowers, yellow & white daisies and forget-me-nots - I haven't yet found those patterns but a google search will uncover them I'm sure.
If you aren't able to knit or crochet perhaps you would like to consider sifting through your stash and donating any unwanted yarns in the appropriate colours. This would really help our group of crafters to keep up the momentum.
Your flowers can be posted to me or delivered by hand to The Spinning Barn.
I can't tell you how much I would appreciate your help, so thank you all in advance.
Spinspiration: Tip of the Month Does a neat bobbin really matter?
Winding yarn neatly onto a bobbin might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference to both the spinning process and the yarn you end up with.
A smooth, even wind lets you fit significantly more yarn onto the bobbin. When the yarn is laid on in consistent layers rather than piled in one spot, you use the full capacity of the bobbin instead of creating bulky areas that force you to stop early. This is especially helpful when spinning fine yarns or working on larger projects where uninterrupted yardage matters.
Neat winding also protects the structure of your yarn. Crossing strands, tight lumps, or uneven build-up can create pressure points that stretch, compress, or snag the yarn as you spin. By guiding the yarn on evenly, you maintain consistent tension and preserve the twist you worked so carefully to create.
Perhaps most importantly, tidy bobbins prevent frustration later. Yarn that is wound smoothly unwinds smoothly. When it’s time to ply, skein, or wind off, the yarn flows freely instead of catching on loops or diving under crossed strands. This reduces tangles, saves time, and keeps your focus on the craft rather than the troubleshooting.
There are a few simple ways to achieve an even build on the bobbin. Some spinning wheels can accommodate an auto-winding or level-wind system that moves the yarn guide back and forth across the bobbin for you. When properly adjusted, this produces consistent layers with minimal effort. I have to say that I love mine for all the reasons stated but also because it just looks so beautiful as I spin.
If you wind manually, aim to guide the yarn steadily from side to side rather than letting it collect in one place. Move gradually along the bobbin, building up thin, even layers before shifting position. Watch the shape forming on the bobbin, if one area begins to build up, gently redirect the yarn along the bobbin. A relaxed rhythm and light guiding touch usually produce the best results.
Breed Focus: British Milk Sheep
When I was deciding which breed to focus on this month I remembered a fabulous fleece I was given by a friend many years ago which really surprised me in just how pleasant it was to spin. I really must search for another and I hope you explore it too.
The British Milksheep is a relatively modern breed, developed in the UK for dual purposes: high-quality milk production and fine wool. Though not as widely known as some traditional British breeds, their fleece is prized by spinners for its softness, consistency, and versatility.
Characteristics
British Milksheep are hardy, medium-sized sheep with a calm temperament, making them more manageable. The wool is dense and uniform, often creamy white, and free from excessive kemp or coarse fibres.
Wool Specifications
Staple Length: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)
Crimp: Well-defined, medium crimp, giving a springy bounce that makes it ideal for yarn with good elasticity.
Micron: 24–27 placing it in the soft-to-medium fine range, comfortable against skin but slightly more durable than superfine merino.
Spinning Tips
British Milksheep fleece is versatile and forgiving, making it suitable for a variety of spinning techniques:
Preparation: Best prepared by carding or combing depending on desired yarn structure.
Spinning: Ideal for worsted or woollen spinning. Woollen spinning enhances its softness and loft, while worsted spinning highlights strength and stitch definition.
Blending: Pairs beautifully with other fine wools or even silk to add strength and sheen.
Uses
The finished yarn is durable yet soft, making it perfect for:
Garments like sweaters, hats, and scarves
Baby items thanks to its gentle feel
Socks and mittens when spun slightly tighter
Light outerwear and textured knits where elasticity is valued
Hand Spinner Spotlight
This section of the newsletter is devoted to you, our amazing community of hand spinners, where each month I cast the spotlight on just one member of our fabulous spinning community.
I believe that every spinner, at whatever stage of their spinning 'journey' deserves to take the limelight and share their story with us all to help us celebrate their achievements and to inspire us all.
So I am delighted to introduce this month's spinner, Julie, and her gorgeous Angora rabbits.
I'm Julie and have been spinning for about 10 years now. I have attended most of Theresa's spinning workshops I think with the exception of the art yarns one - as anyone who has met me at these classes will know I spin for projects, most usually one I can knit. I have recently got 2 white angora rabbits and am collecting their fur ready to spin - 1st project will be a 100% angora scarf, and then i will probably blend it for future projects. I went with rabbits as it was not feasible for me to have any other fibre producing animals.
1. How did you first discover hand spinning?
I had always been intrigued by spinning at local fayres, and I was a knitter from about 8 years old. When I was teaching (scrapbooking) at a residential retreat one of the other courses was spinning so I spoke to the tutor and from there my spinning journey began. Additionally, there was a spinning wheel in the garage - My father inlaw made spinning wheels and this one was a special one he made for my mother inlaw, and it had engraving and a little carved mouse on it. Unfortunately they had both passed when I met my husband but he was more than happy for me to use the wheel. It was a double band wheel and to be truthful I never really mastered it but it helped me to get started.
2. What was the biggest challenge when you started — and how did you move past it?
I started spinning long draw, and the biggest challenge for me was to keep my hands loose and keeping the twist out of my fibre. Practice (yes Theresa, you are right!!) is how I eventually overcame this, along with relaxing as I do it and not getting too focused on it being perfect but enjoying the rhythm and then everything seems to loosen up and work better.
With short forward draw ,understanding my gears on the wheel has been a huge breakthrough which has enabled me to achieve a finer, and more consistent yarn . Again this was mainly due to keep practising. I have knitted garments with all of my spinning, including the unintentional art yarns I created and I have been pleased with the finished garments so acceptance of where I am at with the skill and then trying to improve has been the best way to overcome these challenges.
3. What do you most enjoy about spinning now?
The relaxation of the steady rhythm of your hands and feet.When doing long draw I love the bubblegum moment of drawing the fibre back and back - just bliss. I enjoy the feeling of calmness and control (when it is going smoothly and I havent kept getting breaks or loosing ends!), I love the feeling of being connected in history to all the people who have spun over the centuries and that I can wear something that I have created that has come straight from a sheeps fleece.
4. Do you have a favourite fibre or breed to spin? Why?
I love spinning Shetland as it so grippy, but i do also love spinning blends with merino and silk as I adore the softness of yarn against the skin. I have tried quite a few fibres and had a go with flax and cotton in Theresa's classes. I think I may well I tend to spin mainly from dyed tops, but i do have quite a lot of fleeces in the garage waiting to be scoured and prepared, including dying!
5. What's a project you're especially proud of?
I am most proud of my shift cowl. I used techniques learned from Theresa's spin to retain colour class, and then knitted the cowl. It was quite an interesting pattern which creates a nice texture and I feel very proud when I wear it. (the yarn was not the most consistent but you cant really tell in the finished article)
6. Has spinning changed anything for you beyond making yarn?
it has filled my house and garage with fleeces and fibre tops! I have become a major fibre snob and only want to work with natural fibres. My aim is to spin and weave fabrics so that pretty much everything I wear will be wool or a wool blend apart from my bra and pants!
7. What's something you wish you'd known when you first started?
Only to be kinder to myself and view it as a process, accept that it takes a while and regular practice to achieve a consistent yarn.
8. What would you say to someone who's thinking about learning to spin?
Just do it - it is such a rewarding skill to have. Enjoy the journey and practice.
Upcoming Workshops
There’s nothing like having a creative date in the diary to look forward to — and I’ve got some lovely workshops coming up with spaces still available over the next couple of months. Whether you're new to spinning or looking to deepen your skills, there’s something here just for you.
Curious about what’s coming up?Here’s your chance to plan ahead, try something new, and enjoy a relaxing day immersed in wool, wheels, and like-minded company.
Want the full picture?You can always browse the complete workshop calendar over on the Workshops page of my website. From beginners to improvers, there really is something for everyone.
Can’t see what you’re looking for?If there’s a specific workshop or date you’ve been hoping for, just let me know! I love hearing your suggestions, and I’m often able to add extra dates or tailor sessions to suit. Drop me a message — let’s see what we can make happen.
Don't forget that I am also available to teach and support you online via Teams link so access is simple wherever you are in the world. It's a perfect way to ask a question, work on a specific area or even to learn from scratch. I am here to support you.
March
Saturday 14th – Beginner Spinning Pay What You Can. Available once a year The perfect place to learn or refresh your spinning skills. SOLD OUT
Sunday 15th - Basics & Beyond Hand Spinning - the perfect workshop to learn or improve your spinning.
Wednesday 18th - 1/2 Day Hand Spinning Taster Workshop - perfect if you have been thinking about trying hand spinning or if time is an issue.
Friday 20th - English Woollen Longdraw - learn how to spin lofty, springy yarns perfect for those cosy projects.
Sat 21st & Sun 29th - Basics and Beyond - a workshop for new spinners and those looking to refresh or those needing specific support.
Sunday 22nd - 1/2 Day Drop Spindle spinning taster - spend a morning learning how to spin on the portable, lightweight spindle and take away your own spinning kit too.
Friday 27th – Spin to Keep the Colours Vibrant A must if you want to say goodbye to muddy colours and learn how to preserve bold, beautiful blends or even tone down those 'loud' colours.
April
Sat 4th & 18th - Basics & Beyond Hand Spinning - the perfect workshop to learn or improve your spinning.
Sunday 5th - English Woollen Longdraw - learn how to spin lofty, springy yarns perfect for those cosy projects.
Saturday 11th - Worsted Hand Spinning - explore the preparation & spinning techniques to spin wonderful durable yarns with sheen and drape.
Sunday 19th - Perfect Your Carding Techniques From batts to rolags, refine your fibre prep for consistent results.
Friday 24th - 1/2 Day Drop Spindle spinning taster - spend a morning learning how to spin on the portable, lightweight spindle and take away your own spinning kit too.
Sunday 26th - Perfect Your Carding Techniques From batts to rolags, refine your fibre prep for consistent results.
Booking & Info You’ll find full details and booking links on the Workshops page of my website with more dates until the end of the year also available. And remember — if you don’t see the workshop you want, just get in touch. I’m always happy to consider new dates or tailor sessions to suit your interests.
Social Spinning Group – Come Spin with Us!
Our Social Spinning Group is a lovely, relaxed way to connect with fellow spinners, share ideas, and enjoy some peaceful time at the wheel (or spindle!). Whether you're a regular or it’s your first time, everyone is welcome — just bring your spinning,, knitting, crochet etc and settle in for some good company and woolly chat, and of course there is always coffee, tea, cake and lots of laughter! Each meeting costs just £5 payable on the day. 10am - 1pm
Here are the upcoming dates:
Wednesday 11th March
Saturday 28th March
Wednesday 8th April
Saturday 25th April
If you’ve been meaning to join us, why not pop a date in your diary and come along? We’d love to see you there!
Until Next Time…
That’s all for this edition — thank you for spinning a little time with me today. I hope it’s left you with a smile, a handful of new ideas for your next yarny adventure, and a gentle nudge to keep enjoying the magic of hand-spun yarn.
I always love hearing from you — your questions, reflections, or even a quick note about what’s currently on your wheel. Your stories and excitement are what make The Spinning Barn such a lively, creative space.
Until we meet again, may your bobbins stay full, your hands find joy in every twist, and your spinning bring you calm and delight.
Warmly,
Theresa
x
Comments