July 10, 2014 Program Night– Spinning Gossamer Threads

Spinning Gossamer ThreadsJoin us for our last meeting of the Guild year.. we will watch a video about spinning fine cashmere.  Yum.  Below is the description from the Interweave website.  We will also elect the 2014-2015 board members.

PieceWork magazine is proud to present a workshop that brings the traditions of Orenburg into your home.

The hand knitted shawls of Orenburg, located in the steppes of the southern Ural Mountains, set a world standard for exquisite handspun yarns and delicate lace patterning. The beauty and durability of these heirloom creations begin with the yarn: cashmere from the densely-coated goats of the region, an unusual way of preparing the fleece on a Central Asian-style comb, and skillful spindle spinning.

Galina Khmeleva has made a life work of learning the traditional skills of Orenburg spinners and knitters, and promoting their artistry throughout the world. In this DVD, you will learn first-hand:

  • The properties of Orenburg cashmere and how they influence the knitting
  • How to comb on a tool unique to the region
  • How to separate the finest fibers from those more suitable for heavier knitting
  • How to spin on the slender, shapely, whorl-free Orenburg spindle
  • How to ply and finish your yarn

You’ll also hear wonderful stories from a woman who has spent her adult life absorbing the traditions that bring this time-honored folk craft to life.