Sample 35

4.5 wpi Size: Heavy	Sample #35 Design Factor: Fiber Preparation*


Sample #35 Fiber: Wool/Silk/Synthetics Weight of Skein: 60 grams			Appl: #1600203 Type: Thrums Length: 20 Yards
Spinning Equipment Used: Wool carders, Ashford Charkha, Navajo spindle Direction of Twist: S # of Plies: 2--this yarn would not be stable as a single. I felt multiplies appropriate in this portion of the requirements after viewing past COE recipients' work and finding they used multiplies. Finishing: Washed in cool water, blocked and lightly brushed. Technique: When these thrums were obtained they were about 10 inches long. The thrums were cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch segments then blended and carded into rolags on wool handcarders. They were spun in an English woolen long draw technique with a little extra twist in a Z twist. The singles were folded into balls then plied on a Navajo spindle for control. Uses: This yarn is wonderful for weaving jackets. It also knits into interesting sweaters. It is best used in combination with other yarns for maximum display. With wonderful texture, it still has some durability--this skein has been to many schools and through many hands before I decided to use it for the COE.

Preparation for Spinning: After being sorted by color and fiber the thrums were cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch lengths. They were then blended lightly on wool handcarders and made into rolags. Reason for Choice of this Sample: I have always felt that throwing thrums from good quality yarn away was horrible. These thrums were beautiful and the assortment would fluff when carded and spin into a stable yarn. The man made yarns (fiber) added luster, the silk added strength and the wool helped hold everything together.
		Early in the COE project, I created this yarn to use for this sample. After discussing the requirements with the COE mentor assigned, I discounted the yarn being afraid that a two ply would not meet the requirements for this sample. I used the skein for demonstration at elementary schools and during workshops. Later, upon viewing samples from other COE recipients that had passed, I decided to go ahead and use this sample. The best part is that I now this yarn is durable.
*Until I locate the original COE in Handspinning booklet, I can't be sure if this is the design factor of fiber preparation or texture. Sample 36 may be the design factor of fiber preparation or texture. Either way, one is preparation and the other is texture. It has been too many years since I looked at any of this. (note 2/2/2000)

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