Spinning Hamster Studios

  Alluring Angora When I resumed knitting and crocheting after decades of never wanting to do it again, I never wanted to learn to spin. Why take the time to spin when I could purchase gorgeous skeins upon skeins of OPY (Other People's Yarn)? Besides, I rationalized, learning to spin meant acquiring another fiber arts tool, and what did I need with a spinning wheel? Besides, I further rationalized, learning to spin would mean that I would crave having our own rabbits or alpaca or sheep ... and that was out of the question.  I know my limits. NO spinning. My first wheel came home in 2019.  More wheels followed, as did my passion for spinning all types of fiber. I may not have more fiber braids than I do skeins of OPY. Then again, I just may, and I'm proud of it. While I haven't become a rancher on this spinning journey, I am so blessed to have developed close friendships with several incredible ranchers here in Texas.  One of them is Rowdy, and she is an absolute trea...

Patience and Laughter Today, I began another spinning lesson. As with all of my sessions, I've discovered that both the teacher AND the student learn from each lesson. It's such a wonderful, organic process! While this beautiful lady has her eyes and heart set on my gorgeous cherry Schacht Matchless (shown here), she is learning on a Bluebonnet Honeybee.  I've discovered that this first lesson is always filled with anticipation and nerves, on both our parts. The student thinks, "What will this teacher make me do? Will I be spinning right away? Does my wheel work? Can I do it? How does she make it look so easy?" The teacher thinks, "How fast will this student treadle? Will she have the patience that is required? Will I be able to teach her? Will she devote the time and enjoy the process?" When designing any of my lessons, crafting or music, I am always reminded of when my oldest son brought his first violin home from school. I thought he would be excited ...