MasadaSpindle
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Expert Boarder
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Balanced Singles - 2007/08/10 05:36
Single yarn usually has active energy because it usually ends up a plyed yarn. But since we want a single balanced yarn, there are several things to do. What do we check for after plying? To see if the plyed yarn hangs like a strand of pearls. The plyed yarn does not kink back on itself and hangs like pearls. That would have to be the same requirement for a single. After spinning a length, pull it off the spindle or wheel and allow it to hang like a strand of pearls. If it does not fold back on itself - its balanced. So, to avoid the hit and miss of overspin: 1) count the number of times you treadle, and 2) draft out your fibers to the same spot each time whether it is to your right hip, your stomach or past your hip. Whichever method you use, continue counting the number of times you push on the treadle and draft your fibers/spun yarn to your preferred spot. Try 1-2 treadles/drafting spot and stop...check your yarn. Does it drift apart; if so, add on another treadle and keep repeating until you have a spun yarn that hangs nicely but contains enough twist to hold it together.
With a handspindle, you will have to slow down the turning spindle or speed it up as it reaches the preferred spot...your knees or possibly touching the floor. Experiment until you find the exact method that will produce the balanced yarn you are looking for. Do this on a day when no one is at home but you and your spindle or wheel.
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