Beginner Drop Spinning and Plying Techniques

Class Time: Saturday, April 26, 2025 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Location: St. Louis Community College - Meramec Campus, 11333 Big Bend Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122. Check in at Registration 15 minutes prior to class starting at PE Building for location.

CONTACT NOTE: Failure to provide your email address and/or opt out of marketing updates will result in no communication from the Festival about updates or from your  instructor. Our system does not permit us to reach you through other means. If you choose to decline and do not provide an email address, please ensure that all necessary details have been noted down.

Classrrom: TBD

Instructor: Justin Near

Discover the art of spinning your own yarn from natural fibers—without the expense or complexity of a spinning wheel! This hands-on class will introduce you to the fundamentals of using a drop spindle, an accessible and portable tool for creating handspun yarn.

We’ll start with the basics, breaking down each movement into simple, manageable steps to build confidence and skill. Working in pairs, students will practice drafting fiber, spinning, and controlling twist to achieve a balanced yarn. As the class progresses, we’ll explore multiple plying techniques to create stronger, more textured yarns and discuss different finishing methods to set the twist and prepare the yarn for use in knitting, weaving, or other fiber arts.

By the end of the class, each participant will have a deeper understanding of the spinning process, a collection of their own handspun yarn, and a drop spindle to continue their spinning journey at home. Whether you're new to fiber arts or looking to expand your skills, this class provides a fun and approachable way to experience the magic of transforming fiber into yarn!

Skill Prerequisite: None.

Ages: 12+

Supplies: Included in Class Cost: 

• Drop Spindle
• Spinning Fiber

Additional Supplies Needed: None.

Homework: None.

Class Policies

• The class minimum is 4 students. If we are unable to fill these spots, we will cancel the class and provide a full refund.
• By signing up for this class, you have admission to Friday Night Vendor Marketplace Preview.
• If a class is sold out, click here to be placed on the Wait List.
• No refunds will be issued after April 1, 2025.
  
• For any cancellations prior to April 1, 2025, a $25 administrative fee will be assessed.