5 Classic Fair Isle Patterns

5 Classic Fair Isle Patterns + Exactly Where to Get the Yarn:

Fair Isle knitting isn’t just a technique—it’s a storytelling tradition, born on the windswept Shetland Islands where knitters turned limited resources into vibrant, heirloom-worthy garments. Today, these iconic motifs live on in modern patterns, and the secret to success is still the same: authentic Shetland wool with just the right stickiness and color depth.Below are five timeless Fair Isle patterns—ranging from beginner-friendly to heirloom-level—along with exact yarn recommendations using Jamieson & Smith (the gold standard available at FiberYarns.com). All pattern links are verified and active, and each includes a preview image from the official designer or pattern source, with full credit.

1. The Classic Yoked Sweater Pattern: “Kokkaloorie” by Mary Jane Mucklestone
Ravelry – Kokkaloorie | Paid Kokkaloorie Yoked Sweater – A seamless pullover with a delicate Fair Isle collar band in soft neutrals and pops of color
Ravelry A refined, wearable yoke with subtle motifs—perfect for everyday elegance.

Kakkaloorie

Yarn Needed:

  • Jamieson & Smith 2-Ply Jumper Weight

    • MC: Natural White (#1) or Oatmeal

    • CCs: 4–6 shades (e.g., Indigo, Burnt Umber, Bottle Green, Gold)

Shop it: J&S 2-Ply at FiberYarns.com

2. Shetland Hap Shawl (Colorwork Border)Pattern: “Hamegaet Wrap” by Hazel Tindall
Ravelry – Hamegaet Wrap | Paid Hamegaet Wrap – A textured hap with Fair Isle shoulder pieces in earthy Shetland tones, draped for versatile wear
Ravelry (from The Book of Haps preview) A three-dimensional wrap blending texture, color, and Fair Isle shoulders—knit from the top down for easy adaptation.

Yarn Needed:

  • Jamieson & Smith 2-Ply Jumper Weight

    • 3–5 shades in a tonal family (e.g., greys, blues, or natural browns)

Shop it: J&S 2-Ply at FiberYarns.com

3. Fair Isle Mittens (Beginner-Friendly)Pattern Base: “The World's Simplest Mittens” by Tin Can Knits
Tin Can Knits – The World's Simplest Mittens | FREE World’s Simplest Mittens – Seamless, top-down mittens with a simple cuff, ready for Fair Isle colorwork bands in contrasting yarns
Add a 2-color Fair Isle motif to the cuff or back—this free, seamless top-down pattern is your blank canvas for stranded fun. You can also use Doodle Cards to add different motifs. See them here. Yarn Needed:

  • Jamieson & Smith 2-Ply Jumper Weight

    • 2 high-contrast colors (e.g., Shetland Black + White, or Red + Cream)

Shop it: 2-Ply Jumper Weight at FiberYarns.com

4. The Iconic Fair Isle TamPattern: “Neep Heid” by Kate Davies
Ravelry – Neep Heid | Paid Neep Heid Tam – A slouchy beret with bold geometric Fair Isle motifs in earthy Shetland shades, inspired by traditional island designs
Photo © Kate Davies Designs / Ravelry A traditional colourwork tam (named after a Scottish turnip lantern) with repeating motifs—warm, slouchy, and fully Shetland-inspired.

Yarn Needed:

  • Jamieson & Smith 2-Ply Jumper Weight

    • 5–7 colors (classic palette: navy #FC1, gold #121, red #FC9, green #FC11, white #1)

Shop it: Full J&S Color Range at FiberYarns.com

5. Fair Isle Christmas StockingPattern: “Let It Snow Fair Isle Christmas Stocking” by Joan Sheridan
Ravelry – Let It Snow Fair Isle Christmas Stocking | Paid Let It Snow Fair Isle Stocking – A traditional Shetland-style stocking with customizable Fair Isle motifs like snowflakes and trees, in five earthy shades
Photo © Joan Sheridan / Ravelry A heirloom-worthy stocking from a Shetland Guild designer—adapt charts for family personalization, with a slouchy cuff and toe-up ease.

Let It Snow Fair Isle Christmas Stocking by Joan Sheridan

Yarn Needed:

  • Jamieson & Smith 2-Ply Jumper Weight

    • Red (#FC9), White (#1), Green (#FC11), Gold (#121), touch of Black (#FC34)

Bonus: Add initials in duplicate stitch after knitting.Shop it: Holiday Colors at FiberYarns.com

Browse All J&S Yarns →

Quick Tips for Success

  1. Swatch in the round – Tension changes with colorwork.

  2. Catch floats every 5–7 stitches to avoid snags.

  3. Block aggressively – J&S blooms and evens out beautifully.

  4. Use sharp metal needles – They glide through sticky strands.

Ready to cast on? Pick your pattern, grab your Jamieson & Smith from FiberYarns.com, and knit your own piece of Shetland history. Tag@FiberYarnShop in your project photos—we’d love to see what you create! Sign up for the Fiber Yarns newsletter at fiberyarns.com.(bottom of the page)

Fiber Festivals!

Discover the Magic of Fiber Festivals in the Pacific Northwest & Montana:

Your 2025 Guide, Fiber festivals are a celebration of creativity, community, and the timeless art of fiber crafts. From spinning wool to dyeing yarn, these events bring together knitters, weavers, spinners, and fiber enthusiasts to share their passion, learn new skills, and shop for unique materials. If you’re in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) or Montana, you’re in luck—2025 is packed with incredible fiber festivals right in your backyard. In this guide, we’ll explore why fiber festivals are a must-visit, highlight top events in the PNW and Montana, and share tips to make your experience unforgettable. Get ready to dive into a world of color, texture, and inspiration!Why Fiber Festivals Are a Must for CraftersFiber festivals are more than just markets—they’re immersive experiences that celebrate the art of fiber. Here’s why you should attend:

  • Unleash Your Creativity: Explore hand-dyed yarns, raw fleece, and innovative tools that spark ideas for your next project.

  • Support Local Artisans: Shop from independent dyers, fiber farmers, and small businesses, supporting sustainable and traditional crafts.

  • Learn New Skills: Hands-on workshops teach everything from natural dyeing to advanced knitting, perfect for beginners and experts alike.

  • Connect with Community: Meet fellow fiber lovers, swap tips, and build friendships in a welcoming, creative environment.

  • Find Unique Treasures: Discover rare fibers, like Montana-raised alpaca or PNW-grown wool, that you won’t find in chain stores.

Fiber at Fiberfest Eureka, MT

Whether you’re a seasoned spinner or a curious newbie, fiber festivals in the PNW and Montana offer endless inspiration for your fiber arts journey.Top Fiber Festivals in the Pacific Northwest & Montana for 2025The PNW and Montana are home to some of the most exciting fiber festivals in the U.S., showcasing local fibers, talented artisans, and breathtaking landscapes. Here are the must-visit events for 2025 (check festival websites for exact dates and details as they’re updated):Pacific Northwest Fiber Festivals

  1. Oregon Flock & Fiber Festival (OFF) – Clackamas County Event Center, Canby, OR
    Held in late September, OFF is a PNW favorite, drawing thousands with its fleece show, vendor marketplace, and workshops. Expect live animal demos, a goat obstacle course, and over 100 vendors offering yarn, roving, and tools. Perfect for families and fiber enthusiasts alike. SEO Keywords: Oregon fiber festival, PNW yarn events, Clackamas fiber arts

    Why Visit: Hands-on workshops and a vibrant community vibe make it ideal for learning and shopping.

  2. Pacific Northwest Fiber Arts Expo – Port Angeles, WA
    Taking place in early October, this expo fosters appreciation for fiber arts with workshops, demonstrations, and a bustling marketplace. With 14,000 attendees annually, it’s one of the largest in the PNW. Don’t miss the Saturday goat obstacle course at 4 PM! SEO Keywords: Port Angeles fiber festival, Washington yarn expo, PNW fiber arts

    Why Visit: High-quality workshops and unique vendors make it a must for serious crafters.

  3. Flock Fiber Festival – Seattle, WA
    Typically held in the fall, Flock is a newer festival gaining traction for its urban vibe and focus on modern fiber arts. Check their newsletter or Instagram for 2025 updates. SEO Keywords: Seattle fiber festival, Washington yarn events, urban fiber arts

    Why Visit: A fresh, city-based festival with trendy yarns and contemporary workshops.

  4. Fiber Fusion NW – Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe, WA
    Scheduled for early June, this festival features over 70 vendors, a spin-in, and live animal demonstrations. It’s a great spot to connect with PNW fiber farmers and shop farm-direct yarn. SEO Keywords: Monroe fiber festival, Washington wool events, PNW fiber vendors

    Why Visit: A cozy, community-driven event with a focus on local fibers.

  5. Fat Lamb Fiber Festival – Scio, OR
    Held in mid-May alongside the Linn County Lamb & Wool Fair, this festival offers a charming rural setting, vendor stalls, and animal shows. It’s perfect for those who love farm-fresh fibers. SEO Keywords: Scio fiber festival, Oregon wool fair, PNW lamb festival

    Why Visit: A family-friendly event with a strong connection to Oregon’s fiber heritage.

Montana Fiber Festivals

  1. Montana Fiber Festival – Great Falls, MT
    Typically held in the spring, this festival celebrates Montana’s rich fiber heritage with local wool, alpaca, and yak fibers. Expect workshops, vendor booths, and shearing demos. Check their website for 2025 dates. SEO Keywords: Montana fiber festival, Great Falls yarn events, Montana wool
    Why Visit: A deep dive into Montana’s fiber farming community, ideal for sourcing local materials.

  2. Bitterroot Fiber Festival – Hamilton, MT
    Usually in late summer, this smaller festival in the scenic Bitterroot Valley showcases Montana artisans, from spinners to felters. It’s a hidden gem for unique finds. SEO Keywords: Bitterroot fiber festival, Hamilton yarn events, Montana fiber arts
    Why Visit: Intimate and authentic, with a focus on Montana’s fiber traditions.

  3. Big Sky Fiber Arts Festival – Bozeman, MT
    Held in the fall, this festival brings together Montana’s fiber community with vendors, workshops, and live demos. It’s a great place to discover Montana-raised fibers like merino and alpaca. SEO Keywords: Bozeman fiber festival, Montana yarn events, Big Sky fiber arts
    Why Visit: A perfect blend of education, shopping, and Montana’s stunning fall scenery.

Ranching Traditions Yarn

Note: Dates for 2025 may still be TBD for some festivals. Visit websites like Thatched Roof Cottage for updated event lists or follow festival social media for announcements.

Tips for an Unforgettable Fiber Festival ExperienceTo make the most of your PNW or Montana fiber festival visit, follow these tips:

  1. Plan Your Visit
    Check festival websites for schedules, workshop registration, and vendor lists. Popular workshops, like those at the Pacific Northwest Fiber Arts Expo, fill up fast, so sign up early. SEO Keywords: PNW fiber festival planning, Montana yarn event tips

  2. Bring Cash
    Many small vendors, especially at rural Montana festivals, may only accept cash. ATMs can be scarce, so hit the bank beforehand.

  3. Wear Comfortable Shoes
    Festivals like Oregon Flock & Fiber involve lots of walking, often outdoors. Dress for comfort and check the weather, as PNW and Montana events can be chilly or rainy.

  4. Set a Budget
    Gorgeous yarns and fibers are tempting! Set a spending limit but leave room for a special find, like a hand-dyed skein from a Seattle vendor or Montana alpaca roving.

  5. Bring a Project
    Many festivals have casual “knit-along” areas. Pack a small knitting or crochet project to work on while connecting with others.

  6. Take Notes
    Jot down vendor names, yarn details, or workshop tips. You’ll want to remember that perfect wool blend from a Bozeman farmer or a dyeing trick from a Port Angeles class.

  7. Pack Smart
    Bring a reusable tote for purchases, a water bottle, and a notebook for inspiration. For outdoor festivals like Bitterroot, layers are key.

How to Get Involved in Fiber ArtsNew to fiber arts? PNW and Montana festivals are beginner-friendly. Here’s how to start:

  • Sign Up for a Workshop: Try intro classes in knitting, spinning, or felting at events like Fiber Fusion NW or Montana Fiber Festival.

  • Talk to Vendors: Artisans at festivals like Big Sky Fiber Arts Festival love sharing tips for beginners. Ask about easy fibers to start with, like Montana merino.

  • Join a Guild: Look for local fiber guilds at festival booths to connect with crafters in your area.

  • Volunteer: Some festivals offer free entry for volunteers, a great way to meet people and learn.

Why PNW & Montana Fiber Festivals ShineThe PNW and Montana are fiber arts hotspots, thanks to their rich agricultural heritage and vibrant crafting communities. From Washington’s alpaca farms to Montana’s sheep ranches, these regions produce some of the finest fibers in the world. Festivals here celebrate local traditions while embracing modern techniques, making them a unique blend of old and new. Plus, the stunning landscapes—think Oregon’s lush forests or Montana’s rugged mountains—add an extra layer of magic to your visit.Ready to Spin, Knit, or Shop?Fiber festivals in the Pacific Northwest and Montana are a crafter’s dream, offering inspiration, education, and one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re exploring the bustling Oregon Flock & Fiber Festival, the urban Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, or the cozy Bitterroot Fiber Festival in Montana, you’re in for a treat. Mark your 2025 calendar, follow festival updates, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of fiber arts.Have a favorite PNW or Montana fiber festival? Share your tips or must-visit vendors in the comments below! Let’s keep the fiber love growing.

Why Knit?

Why knit?

Knitting’s worth it for a few solid reasons. It’s a creative outlet—turning yarn into something beautiful like a scarf or sweater feels satisfying, and you can customize colors and patterns to your taste. It’s also relaxing; the repetitive motions can be meditative, reducing stress, with studies showing it lowers cortisol levels similar to mindfulness practices. Plus, it’s practical—you make functional stuff, saving money on gifts or winter gear. It’s got a learning curve, but once you get the basics, it’s versatile and portable. On the flip side, it can be time-consuming, and yarn costs add up if you go high quality. Still, the combo of creativity, calm, and utility makes it appealing for creative folks.

Hopi Sweater knit with Lopi Lettlopi

Why would you knit something when you can buy it?

Knitting something yourself has distinct advantages over buying. You get full control over design—custom colors, patterns, and fit tailored exactly to you, unlike mass-produced items that often compromise on uniqueness or quality. It’s also a creative and therapeutic process; the repetitive motion reduces stress, with research suggesting it can lower heart rate and blood pressure, offering a mental health boost store-bought items can’t match. Plus, you can choose higher-quality or hand-dyed yarns, avoiding the often cheap, unsustainable materials in commercial products.

For the grand babies!

Knitting delivers a sense of accomplishment and personalization that’s hard to beat, plus the potential for long-term savings if you make durable, reusable items. It depends on whether you value convenience or the hands-on experience more.

I truly believe knitting is great for your mental health and community building too! So grab some knitting and a friend and join me in creating something beautiful!

Knit on!

Summer Yarns & ideas

Summer Yarns and Knitting Ideas to Keep You Crafting All Season Long

As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, it’s tempting to tuck your knitting needles away until fall. But summer is a fantastic time to explore lightweight yarns and breezy projects that keep your creativity flowing without overheating. At Fiber, we’re excited to share our favorite summer yarns and inspiring knitting ideas to make your warm-weather crafting a delight. Whether you’re lounging by the beach or sipping iced tea on the porch, these projects will keep your hands busy and your style on point.

Berroco Summer Sesame yarn - pattern “Ginger”

Why Knit in Summer?

Knitting in summer isn’t just about staying productive—it’s about embracing the season’s vibe. Lightweight fibers and open, airy patterns create garments and accessories that are perfect for warm weather. Plus, with holiday gifting season just a few months away (yes, it sneaks up fast!), summer knitting lets you get a head start on those cozy winter projects. Best of all, portable summer projects are ideal for travel, outdoor meetups, or relaxing in the sunshine.

Top Summer Yarns to Try

The key to summer knitting is choosing yarns that are breathable, lightweight, and comfortable against the skin. Here are our top picks, all available at Fiber

  1. Cotton: A summer staple, cotton is soft, durable, and absorbs moisture, making it ideal for warm-weather wear. Try our Berroco Pima Soft Cotton DK for vibrant tops or baby blankets. Its crisp stitch definition is perfect for textured patterns.

  2. Linen: Known for its cool, slightly crisp feel, linen softens with wear and drapes beautifully. Our Quince & Co Sparrow Linen Fingering is a go-to for airy shawls and lightweight cardigans that feel luxurious.

  3. Bamboo: Silky and eco-friendly, bamboo yarns have a subtle sheen and excellent drape. Check out Amano Samay Bamboo Blend for flowy tanks or spa-inspired washcloths.

  4. Cotton-Linen Blends: Can’t choose between cotton and linen? Blends like Juniper Moon Cotton-Linen offer the best of both worlds—softness, breathability, and structure for summer scarves or market bags.

  5. Lightweight Merino: For those who love wool year-round, superwash merino in fingering weight, like Malabrigo Sock, works for delicate shawls that add just a touch of warmth on cool summer evenings.

Pro Tip: Look for yarns with a loose twist or chainette construction to enhance breathability and reduce weight. Visit our shop or browse online to explore our full summer yarn collection!

Summer Knitting Project Ideas

Ready to cast on? Here are five summer-friendly knitting projects to spark your inspiration:

  1. Lacy Shawl
    A lightweight shawl in linen or bamboo is a summer must-have. Try a shawl pattern from Ravelry, which features delicate lace repeats that shine in fingering-weight yarn. Perfect for draping over your shoulders at a summer wedding or a chilly beach bonfire.

  2. Market Tote
    Knit a sturdy yet stylish market bag in cotton or a cotton-linen blend. A Market Tote is quick to knit and ideal for carrying fresh produce or your latest yarn haul. Add a pop of color with our vibrant Pima 100 Cotton Worsted.

  3. Breathable Tank Top
    Knit a sleeveless top for effortless summer style. Knits in cotton or bamboo blend yarn create a flattering, breezy silhouette. Pair it with shorts or a flowy skirt for a laid-back look.

  4. Baby Blanket
    Summer is a great time to knit for little ones. A soft, washable cotton blanket in pastel shades Juniper Moon Cumulus is perfect for strollers or nursery decor.

  5. Dishcloths or Washcloths
    Quick, portable, and practical, dishcloths are a summer knitting win. Use cotton yarn for absorbency and experiment with fun stitch patterns like seed stitch or mini cables. They’re great for gifting or adding a handmade touch to your kitchen.

Tips for Summer Knitting Success

  • Keep It Portable: Choose small projects like shawls or dishcloths that fit easily in a project bag for knitting on the go. We have those cute bags too!

  • Stay Cool: Knit in air-conditioned spaces or early mornings to avoid sticky hands. Bamboo or metal needles can feel cooler than wooden ones.

  • Experiment with Color: Summer is the season for brights and pastels. Try bold corals, sunny yellows, or soft aquas to capture the season’s energy.

  • Join a Knit-Along: Check our shop’s calendar for summer knit-alongs or virtual events on platforms like Ravelry. Crafting with others keeps motivation high!

Get Started Today

Ready to dive into summer knitting? Visit Fiber in-store or shop online to explore our curated selection of summer yarns and patterns. Not sure where to start? Our friendly staff can help you pick the perfect yarn and project for your skill level. Plus, sign up for our newsletter to get exclusive summer knitting tips, pattern recommendations, and special offers.

Let’s make this summer a season of creativity and handmade joy. What’s your next project? Share your summer knitting plans with us on FB or stop by the shop to show off your WIPs!

Happy knitting,
Fiber Yarn Shop





How to Fix a Dropped Stitch in Knitting: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Fix a Dropped Stitch in Knitting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Oh no! You’re happily knitting along, and then you spot it—a dropped stitch, unraveling your hard work like a tiny knitting rebellion. Don’t panic! Fixing a dropped stitch is easier than you think, and with a little know-how, you’ll have it back in place in no time. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to rescue that runaway stitch and keep your project on track.

What’s a Dropped Stitch?

A dropped stitch happens when a stitch slips off your needle and starts to unravel, leaving a ladder of loose yarn strands. It’s super common, especially for beginners, but even seasoned knitters have their moments. The good news? You can fix it with just a crochet hook and a bit of patience.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Crochet hook: A small one, close to your needle size, works best.

  • Your knitting project: With the dropped stitch ready to be saved.

  • Good lighting: Trust me, it helps!

Step-by-Step Fix for a Dropped Stitch

  1. Spot the Dropped Stitch
    Look for the loose stitch—it’ll be a loop hanging below your needles, with a ladder of yarn strands above it. Don’t pull on your work, as this can make it unravel further.

  2. Secure the Stitch
    Grab your crochet hook and insert it through the dropped stitch from front to back (if you’re working on the knit side). This keeps it from slipping further down.

  3. Climb the Ladder
    Look at the ladder of yarn strands above the stitch. Each strand represents a row you need to “re-knit.” Hook the lowest strand with your crochet hook and pull it through the loop on your hook. Congrats—you’ve fixed one row! Repeat this for each strand, working your way up the ladder.

  4. Check Your Work
    As you pull each strand through, make sure the new stitch looks like a knit stitch (a little “V” shape). If it’s twisted, you might have pulled the strand incorrectly—undo it and try again.

  5. Place It Back on the Needle
    Once you’ve worked through all the ladder strands, your stitch should be at the top, looking fresh and ready. Slip it back onto your left needle (if you’re ready to knit it) or right needle (if you’re just storing it). Be careful not to twist it!

Pro Tips for Dropped Stitch Success

  • Work Slowly: Rushing can tangle the yarn or twist the stitch.

  • Practice on a Swatch: If you’re nervous, try dropping a stitch on a practice piece to get the hang of it.

  • Fix It ASAP: The sooner you catch a dropped stitch, the fewer rows you’ll need to repair.

  • Purl Side Problems?: If the dropped stitch is on the purl side, the fix is similar—just insert the hook from back to front and pull the ladder strand through to mimic a purl stitch.

When to Call It Quits

If the stitch has unraveled several rows and looks messy, or if you’re working with tricky yarn (like something super fuzzy), it might be easier to unravel a few rows back to the mistake and re-knit. But don’t worry—most dropped stitches are totally fixable with the crochet hook method!

Keep Calm and Knit On

Dropping a stitch can feel like a mini knitting disaster, but it’s really just a chance to flex your skills. With this technique in your toolkit, you’ll be ready to tackle any runaway stitch like a pro. So grab that crochet hook, take a deep breath, and show that stitch who’s boss!

Happy knitting,
Cindy - Fiber

Top 5 Sheep Breeds for Spinning: A Fiber Lover’s Guide

Top 5 Sheep Breeds for Spinning: A Fiber Lover’s Guide

If you’re a handspinner, you know the thrill of turning raw fleece into yarn that’s uniquely yours. The sheep breed you choose can make all the difference—each one offers distinct qualities, from softness to strength to stunning natural hues. Whether you’re spinning for a cozy sweater or a delicate shawl, here are five standout breeds that deserve a spot on your spindle.

1. Merino: The Luxury Staple

Merino sheep are the gold standard for spinners seeking softness. With wool measuring 18-24 microns, it’s fine enough to wear against the skin without a hint of itch. The crimpy, elastic fibers practically beg to be spun into lightweight yarns, and they soak up dye like a dream. If you’re after buttery-smooth skeins for a special project, Merino’s your go-to. It’s no wonder this breed dominates the high-end fiber world!

2. Rambouillet: Merino’s Sturdy Cousin

Think of Rambouillet as Merino with a bit more backbone. Developed from Merino stock, its wool (19-25 microns) blends fineness with durability and a slightly longer staple length. It spins up into sleek, worsted yarns with crisp stitch definition—perfect for structured garments or heirloom pieces. If you love Merino but want something a touch hardier, Rambouillet won’t disappoint.

3. Shetland: A Rainbow of Possibilities

Shetland sheep are small but mighty in the fiber department. Their wool ranges from fine to medium (23-30 microns) and comes in an array of natural shades—think moorit brown, soft greys, and creamy whites. It’s soft, lofty, and versatile, lending itself to both woolen-spun fluff and smooth worsted threads. For spinners who love color play without the dye pot, Shetland is a playground of options.

4. Corriedale: The All-Rounder

Born from a Merino-longwool cross, Corriedale strikes a balance between softness and strength (25-31 microns). Its longer staple length makes it a dream to work with, especially for beginners finding their rhythm at the wheel. The result? Consistent, all-purpose yarns that hold up in everything from socks to blankets. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss fleece, Corriedale’s got you covered.

5. Bluefaced Leicester (BFL): Lustrous and Lovely

Bluefaced Leicester—or BFL to fiber fans—is the spinner’s secret weapon for elegance. Its wool (24-28 microns) is long, lustrous, and silky, with a subtle sheen that elevates any project. It spins into strong, smooth yarns with gorgeous drape, making it ideal for scarves, shawls, or anything that needs to flow. Want a yarn that feels as good as it looks? BFL delivers.

Which Breed Suits You?

Every spinner has their own style, and these breeds cater to a range of tastes. Craving luxury? Go Merino or Rambouillet. Love natural hues? Shetland’s your match. Need versatility? Corriedale’s a safe bet. Or if you’re dreaming of silky sheen, BFL might steal your heart. Whatever you choose, these fleeces offer endless possibilities for your next skein. What’s your favorite breed to spin—or one you’re dying to try?



Spinning Wheels & Spinning Wool

Spinning Wheels and Spinning Wool: A Beginner’s Guide to a Timeless Craft

There’s something magical about turning a fluffy handful of wool into a skein of yarn with nothing but a spinning wheel and a bit of patience. Spinning wool is an ancient craft that connects us to history, creativity, and the simple joy of making something with our hands. Whether you’re a knitter looking to create custom yarn or a curious beginner drawn to the rhythmic hum of a spinning wheel, this guide will walk you through the basics of spinning wheels and how to get started with spinning wool.

Schacht Matchless Spinning Wheel

What is a Spinning Wheel?

A spinning wheel is a tool that twists fibers—like wool, cotton, or alpaca—into thread or yarn. While hand-spinning predates it (think drop spindles), the spinning wheel revolutionized the process in the Middle Ages by speeding things up. Today, it’s both a practical tool and a beloved piece of artistry, with designs ranging from traditional wooden beauties to sleek modern versions.

At its core, a spinning wheel has a few key parts:

  • Wheel: Turned by hand or foot (via a treadle), it powers the spinning process.

  • Flyer and Bobbin: These work together to twist the fiber and wind the finished yarn.

  • Drive Band: A belt or cord that connects the wheel to the flyer, keeping everything in motion.

  • Tension System: Adjusts how fast the fiber is pulled in, giving you control over your yarn’s thickness.

There are different styles—like the upright “castle” wheel or the classic “Saxony” with its slanted frame—but they all share the same purpose: transforming raw wool into something you can knit, weave, or simply admire.

Why Spin Wool?

Spinning your own wool lets you customize everything—color, texture, thickness—to suit your projects. Plus, it’s deeply satisfying. You start with a cloud of fiber, often straight from a sheep, and end with yarn that’s uniquely yours. It’s sustainable, too—supporting local shepherds or even raising your own flock if you’re adventurous!

Wool is a fantastic fiber for beginners because it’s forgiving. Its natural crimp (that wavy texture) helps it grip together as you spin, making the process a little easier while you learn.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

  1. A Spinning Wheel

    • New wheels can cost anywhere from $100 to over $1,000, depending on craftsmanship and features. Used ones are often a budget-friendly option—just check that all parts move smoothly. Brands like Ashford, Schacht, or Louët are popular for their reliability.

    • If you’re not ready to commit, try a drop spindle first. It’s cheaper (often under $20) and teaches the basics of twist.

  2. Wool

    • Look for “roving” or “top”—wool that’s been cleaned and carded into a long, fluffy strand. Breeds like Merino (soft and fine) or Corriedale (sturdy and beginner-friendly) are great starting points.

    • You can buy pre-dyed wool for instant color or natural wool to dye yourself later.

  3. Time and Patience

    • Spinning is a skill that grows with practice. Your first yarn might be lumpy or uneven—and that’s okay! It’s all part of the charm.

Roving for spinning

How to Spin Wool: The Basics

Here’s a simple rundown to get you going:

  1. Set Up Your Wheel

    • Adjust the tension so the wool feeds onto the bobbin without pulling too hard or slipping. Start with a medium setting and tweak as you go.

  2. Prepare Your Wool

    • Gently pull your roving into a manageable strip, about the width of your thumb. Don’t overstretch—it should feel airy, not tight.

  3. Start Spinning

    • Attach a “leader” yarn (a short piece of pre-spun yarn) to the bobbin to guide your wool. Hold the wool against the leader, then start pedaling (or turning the wheel) to add twist. Clockwise twist makes “Z-twist” yarn; counterclockwise makes “S-twist”—either works for beginners.

    • Let the twist travel up the wool, then guide it onto the bobbin by drafting (pulling the fiber gently apart). The trick is finding a rhythm between pedaling and drafting.

  4. Find Your Flow

    • Keep your hands light and relaxed. If the yarn gets too thin and breaks, overlap the ends and twist them back together. Too thick? Draft a little more before letting it wind on.

  5. Finish Your Yarn

    • Once your bobbin is full, unwind it into a skein (a loose loop) using a niddy-noddy or chair back. Soak it in lukewarm water to “set the twist,” then hang it to dry. Voilà—yarn ready to use!

Tips for Success

  • Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t aim for flawless yarn right away. Even “art yarn” with its quirks has a rustic beauty.

  • Join a Community: Online forums, local spinning guilds, or social media groups can offer advice and inspiration.

  • Experiment: Try blending colors or adding bits of silk or sparkle once you’re comfortable.

Why It’s Worth It

Spinning wool with a wheel is more than a craft—it’s a way to slow down, create, and connect with a tradition that’s been around for centuries. Every skein tells a story, from the sheep it came from to the hands that shaped it. Whether you’re spinning for a sweater, a gift, or just the joy of it, you’re keeping a piece of history alive.

Ready to give it a whirl? Grab some wool, sit down at a wheel, and let the rhythm take over. Happy spinning!





Project Ideas For Veriegated Yarn

Project Ideas for Variegated Yarn

Whenever I travel, I stop in and visit the local knit shop and usually walk away with one skein of special yarn to help me remember my trip.  Often, it’s a variegated yarn dyed by a local dyer that I couldn’t leave without.  We all love those beautiful variegated yarns with those jewel tones and beautiful colors that play so well together in the skein.  

Showcasing your yarn with the perfect project can pose a problem for some.  Variegated yarn can be tricky, it can pool or it gets muddy and the results aren’t what we expected.  Below I put together a few projects for you to consider, these patterns will showcase your yarn beautifully.  Whenever you can break up those busy yarn colors with a solid contrasting color you will be happy with the results.

The Prickly Fingerless mitts https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/prickly

Of course, you can use a variegated yarn in a colorwork sweater as your contrast color.  A couple things to consider; the colorwork design needs to be in a larger bolder motif and you will want to make sure your main color is a very strong contrast as your design may disappear in some areas almost giving it a static look.

Give it a try and get ready to start planning for your next project and use that variegated yarn you love.

Sandi Avila

Instructor @ Fiber, llc.

Knit Montana 2025!

Stop into Fiber to pick up a passport card, or if you place an order online, ask for a passport card to be included in your order.

Knit Montana 2025 is coming!

Join us on Zoom, Tuesday, January 7th, at 7:00pm for the kick-off our Knit Montana yarn-crawl. Follow this link to the Zoom invitation. Not just for knitters, we welcome all who are inspired by the idea of creating with Montana yarns and fiber. Knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers, felters, whatever your personal passion, come on and join in! We challenge you to visit as many participating yarn shops, farm stores, and websites as you can through August of 2025. These businesses will provide you with a Knit Montana visit card listing all participating businesses where you will receive a stamp with each Montana yarn purchase. After obtaining four or more stamps, you will be eligible for prizes. By the end of August, 2025, send your card in to Montana Fibershed to be entered into the drawing for the grand prize.

We are looking forward to connections that the Knit Montana initiative will foster. We plan on a monthly Zoom meet-up to share fabulous yarns we have found, favorite patterns to knit with Montana wools, info about Montana designers, etc. In short, all things fiber, design, and local producers and makers!

Best wishes and hope to see you on Zoom!

Barb French, co-Chair

“Color therapy for your soul”