Learn Traditional Yarn Spinning with Jane Coward

Experienced and passionate local spinner, Jane Coward, will be hosting this one day course with our very own Tom Philipson (Director of Making) who will be on hand to repair any spinning wheels in need of some TLC.

During the day, Jane will take participants step-by-step through processing raw fleece and the tools you’ll need to do this, to spinning yarn on two types of wheel. Jane will demonstrate spinning on an Ashford “Traddie” (single treadle) and an Ashford “Kiwi” (double treadle) as well as 2 plying methods. After you get spinning, Jane will be on hand to answer any questions and help you to perfect your technique.

All participants are encouraged to bring your their own spinning wheel, and if you have your own fibre, that too. Jane will provide carded sheep fleece for those who don’t have any fibres on the day. For participants with a wheel in need of some repairs, Tom Philipson will support with this on the day, but we do ask that you provide information about your wheel to Tom before the day of the course.

About the Tutor:

When Jane and her husband were courting, he was a shepherd on a farm in Kentmere and she was a knitter. Keen to take a fleece he sheared off a sheep and transform it into a garment, she sadly had to wait 30 years to find a teacher as the internet and Youtube didn’t yet exist. On the day before Jane turned 60, she had her only spinning lesson from Elaine Ware near Cartmel after which she bought a wheel and practised a lot. When selling her wares, Jane always spins at her stall and is keen to educate people that the craft of spinning is thriving.