When all else fails...RTFM

Success! I have something that actually looks like yarn!

I started out again tonight attempting to spin on my new toy, my Majacraft Rose. I predrafted some fiber and began to treadle, the fiber began to spin and once again, I couldn't get it to go onto the bobbin. I finally pulled out the manual and began to read. What a concept! I found the "troubleshooting" section and saw that there was a section about just this issue. I made a minor adjustment to the spring tension and WHAM...in it goes! My heart skipped a beat! It felt like the first time I was able to double-haul on my flyrod. I proceed to continue to spin a half a batt of fiber for just about two hours when my husband finally said it was time to settle down for the night. Settle down?? But I HAVE it! I knew it was time, but I was finally getting it. I playing iwth spinning thick and think, putting bumps in the yarn and just generally play.

So it just goes to show you, when all else fails, RTFM. ;-)

Using fiber for the first time

Well, there she is. The Majacraft Rose in my new little spinning corner of the living room. I have been practicing just treadling for the last few days and I just couldn't wait anymore...I added fiber to the mix. I pulled out some batts from Linda Diak at Grafton Fibers and took a deep breath. I started out working the fiber, attempting to mimic what Betty demonstrated to me when I made my purchase. Well, I have successfully made...rope! I seem to be able to spin it OK, but I can't get it to feed onto the spool. My husband Glenn has been very supportive, reminding me that it just takes practice, like everything else and it will come in time. Like most of my "analog" interests (crochet, fly fishing, fly tying and now spinning), the skill came in time.

Stay tuned...

My first post!

Well, after many people telling me I should start a blog, I finally did! As the summer ends I am embarking on a new fiber journey...spinning on a wheel! I have been playing with spindles for a while now and decided to make the jump to a wheel. I have been doing a LOT of research and finally settled on The Rose from Majacraft. It is just beautiful! I made an appointment at The Spinnery in Frenchtown with owner Betty and spent two hours in her shop yesterday getting to know the wheel. Well, I fell absolutely in love! It also has a special meaning to me because my grandmother's name was Rose. Now I will always think of her as I am spinning or crocheting.

Well, that's it for now. I hope you will check back often on my fiberous journey!