How to Spin Worsted Yarn
The term "worsted" describes a method of spinning fibers into a strong yarn. To make worsted yarn, a spinner combs the fibers to keep them parallel, removes shorter pieces of fiber and presses the fibers with her fingers while spinning. The fiber is fed into a spinning wheel that is operated by foot pedals. This technique creates a durable yarn used for blankets, heavy-use clothing and rugs.
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Instructions
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Tear your spinning fiber into lengths similar in diameter to the desired size yarn.
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Attach your fibers onto the yarn threaded into your spinning wheel by twisting them onto the unspun fiber at the end of the last piece of yarn.
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3
Choose your back hand, which is the hand that holds the fiber. This hand is farthest from the wheel.
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Place your other hand about 2 inches in front of your back hand. This hand is the front hand and will draft or pull the fiber from the back hand.
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Begin treadling or operating the foot pedals to spin the wheel.
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Use your front hand to pull a section of fiber forward as the back hand pulls the remaining fiber backward. Keep your hands about 2 inches apart.
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Use your front hand to pinch the fiber as you draw it forward and press the yarn with your thumb and index finger to compress the yarn as it is drawn into the wheel.
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References
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