Courses

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Spindependence tutors are available to run tailored courses for your group or organisation.

We have been regular visitors to Homerton College where we spend the day sharing our skills and outlook with the Art and Design PGCE students.  Activities are relevant to their current curriculum but are designed to challenge their boundaries to help them explore different approaches to fibre in the classroom.

Richard Hickman, PGCE course tutor says:
The session was very purposeful, teaching everyone in the group a new skill which they can use in their teaching.

The whole group responded positively and enthusiastically to the workshop.

The session was very informative with regard to fibre construction and material origin, in addition to the knitting and weaving skills that were learnt.  The group tasks, especially the weaving, worked really well and also provided opportunities for discussion.

We are always happy to create new courses with content to suit your needs.

Current Courses

Understanding Fibre and an Introduction to Spinning
This is a two day course that is best run in groups no larger than six.  We provide some materials and equipment and are also able to supply more fibre at a reasonable price direct to attendees if they desire. Attendees are encouraged to bring any spinning equipment that they have, and our experienced tutors will endeavour to breathe new life into broken or neglected equipment.

On day one, participants spend time learning about physical and behavioural characteristics of fibre before beginning to learn drafting skills on a spindle.  On day two we deepen the understanding of fibre from day one, and begin to build on the skills we learned to transition from spindle to wheel.
The course is very flexible and can be adjusted on the fly to suit the learning  styles, needs and desires of group.

We aim to cover:
Fibre behaviour and characteristics.
Yarn Structure – Why twist turns fluff into string.
Spindling – Park and Draft, spinning direction, drafting skills.
Plying – Why ply? Techniques and tips.
Carding/Blending – colour, properties, equipment and techniques.
Spinning Wheels – maintenance and use.

Feedback for this course:

“You are two very good, patient, clear, well informed and enthusiastic teachers.   I hope you know that already!”
– C, White House Arts, Cambridge 

“Thank you so much!  It was great fun.  Thanks for loaning your wheels and spindles and for your hands-on teaching.  I hope to see you at Creating Space!
– R , White House Arts, Cambridge