09/01/2026
can't believe we are almost 100% booked for Thursday classes but hidden amongst the "sold outs" is this hidden gem- class 407. It's an intermediate spinning class and a great way to deepen your understanding of fibers by comparing them side by side.
America’s textile history is woven from necessity, adaptation, and the development of unique livestock suited to diverse landscapes. In this hands-on workshop, students will explore heritage sheep breeds recognized by the Shave ’Em to Save ’Em program, focusing on U.S.-developed and U.S.-adapted fibers and the yarns they were traditionally used to create. Participants will examine and spin a curated selection of conservation-priority fibers, including Navajo-Churro, Romeldale/CVM, Tunis, Jacob, and Karakul. Through guided comparison, students will explore staple length, crimp, softness, durability, and luster, and how these traits influenced historical uses such as rugs, blankets, clothing, and utilitarian textiles. The class emphasizes why these breeds exist: how geography, cultural needs, and agricultural pressures shaped American fiber animals and the yarns spun from them. Guided spinning time will focus on choosing drafting styles and yarn structures appropriate to each fiber’s intended use rather than modern expectations. Students will leave with spun samples, breed notes, and a deeper understanding of how spinning heritage fibers supports both historical knowledge and modern conservation efforts.
www.bookeo.com/wswfwow
