Spinning to Knit: How to Create Yarn for Your Next Project

Spinning yarn to knit is akin to stepping into a realm where tradition meets creativity. It's a craft deeply rooted in history yet continually evolving with modern techniques and innovations. Creating your own yarn for knitting projects holds immense value beyond just being a crafty endeavour; it's a journey of personalisation and connection.

Handspun yarns offer a unique blend of textures, colours, and characteristics that are often unmatched by commercially produced yarns. This process allows knitters to tailor their yarns to specific projects, ensuring the perfect match in terms of fibre content, weight, and colour palette.

Whether you're a novice spinner curious about the intricacies of fibre manipulation or an experienced hand eager to refine your spinning prowess, this comprehensive guide is your compass in the enchanting world of spinning to knit. From understanding the nuanced characteristics of different fibres to mastering diverse spinning techniques and unravelling advanced tips, this guide is designed to inspire, educate, and empower your yarn-making journey.

Understanding Commercial Yarn

Selecting the correct yarn is crucial for any knitting project, influencing the fabric's feel, drape, and stitch clarity. Single-ply yarns are soft and slightly fuzzy, offering a delicate stitch definition and creating lighter fabrics with an airy feel, while multiple yarns can offer a more defined stitch along with a decreased risk of abrasion from wear and tear. Hand-dyed semi-solids add depth with subtle tonal variations, while variegated yarns bring a bold spectrum of colours, best suited for less intricate stitch patterns to highlight their vibrancy.

To create handspun yarn that mirrors commercial yarn's qualities, understanding yarn structure is key. From fibre composition to spin type, each element affects how the yarn behaves during knitting and in the finished piece.

Deconstructing Commercial Yarn

Digging into commercial yarns reveals insights for hand spinners aiming to replicate specific qualities. It's more than noting single-ply yarns' softness and halo; it's about understanding their unique components. Swatching, measuring, and documenting yarn characteristics are crucial steps for achieving the desired outcome.

Many spinners enjoy experimenting with spinning techniques, embracing the craft's artistry and the material's nuances. Yarn types and gauges not only impact aesthetics but also durability and wearability, guiding choices for different seasons and uses. Read on to learn some of the key qualities to look for when deconstructing commercial yarn to produce a similar hand spun yarn.

Standard Yarn Weights

Understanding yarn weight is essential, impacting fabric feel and needle size. Variations within weight classes like aran, DK, or fingering mean not all yarns are alike. Employing the 'wraps per inch' (WPI) technique helps determine yarn weight accurately, which is crucial for maintaining gauge consistency.

Tools like Ashford's yarn gauge aid spinners in monitoring yarn thickness throughout spinning. Wet finishing is vital, especially for wool yarns, as it affects yarn behaviour and ensures the final fabric meets expectations. We recommend wet finishing a small sample of your handspun yarn to check that the finished yarn matches the correct yarn weight. You can then use this small sample to knit a swatch for your chosen pattern.

To learn more about standard yarn weights, please read this guide.

Ply Count

Examining yarn ply count involves gently untwisting the yarn to count individual strands. Single-ply yarns are softer, with a fuzzy halo and less distinct stitch definition compared to multi-ply yarns. This detail guides yarn selection for desired texture and stitch definition in the finished fabric.

Twists Per Inch

Counting twists per inch visually reveals the product of twist quantity and the number of plies. This metric indicates the tightness of yarn spinning or plying. Why is this significant? It directly affects the durability, drape, and stitch performance of your knitted fabric. Using a spinning wheel, choose an appropriate whorl/pulley. For example if your desired yarn has 8TPI it is wise to choose a ratio close to that if drafting at an inch per treadle to insert 8 twists per inch. You can of course treadle faster or slower or draft at different distances to get the desired TPI too. It is important TPI aligns with project requirements, to ensure the yarn's desired performance in the final piece.

Understanding Stitch Patterns and Gauge

In knitting, the way stitches form patterns and the gauge you knit at are key. A tighter gauge makes a sturdy fabric, great for socks or gloves, while a looser one creates softer, flexible fabrics for shawls or sweaters. Getting the gauge right ensures your project matches the designer's size. Swatching beforehand helps adjust needle size or yarn if needed. The stitch count and row height, measured over a set length, determine the final size and are crucial for success. This care ensures your knitting turns out just as you envisioned.

Spinning Tools and Materials to Create Yarn

Spinning your own yarn is a creative adventure that starts with the right tools and materials. This section will guide you through the basics, from spinning wheels to fibres like wool and silk. Knowing these essentials is crucial for mastering spinning and making yarn that's truly your own. Let's dive into the world of spinning tools and materials, where every twist of fibre is a step in your creative journey.

Spinning Wheel vs Drop Spindle

When it comes to creating yarn for your knitting projects, one of the fundamental decisions spinners face is choosing between a spinning wheel and a drop spindle. Each tool has its own set of advantages and limitations, catering to different spinning styles and preferences.

Spinning Wheel:

Pros:

1. Efficiency: Spinning wheels are generally faster and more efficient than drop spindles, allowing for quicker production of yarn.
2. Consistency: They often produce more consistent yarn in terms of thickness and twist, making it easier to achieve uniformity in your projects.
3. Versatility: Different types of spinning wheels (such as single treadle, double treadle, Saxony, etc.) offer versatility in spinning techniques and styles.
4. Ergonomics: Many spinners find spinning wheels more comfortable for long periods of spinning due to their seated position and foot pedal operation.

Cons:

1. Cost: Spinning wheels can be expensive, especially high-quality or specialized models.
2. Portability: Some spinning wheels are bulky and not easily portable, making them less suitable for travel or spinning on the go.
3. Learning Curve: Beginners may find spinning wheels initially challenging to learn compared to drop spindles due to the coordination required between hands and feet.

Drop Spindle:

Pros:

1. Affordability: Drop spindles are generally more affordable than spinning wheels, making them accessible to a wider range of spinners.
2. Portability: Drop spindles are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travel or spinning outside of a dedicated workspace.
3. Simplicity: They have a simpler design compared to spinning wheels, which can make it easier for beginners to learn basic spinning techniques.
4. Learning Tool: Many spinners use drop spindles as a learning tool before transitioning to spinning wheels, helping them understand the fundamentals of spinning yarn.

Cons:

1. Speed: Drop spindles are typically slower than spinning wheels, requiring more time and effort to produce the same amount of yarn.
2. Consistency: Achieving consistent yarn thickness and twist can be more challenging with drop spindles, especially for beginners.
3. Physical Strain: Spinning with a drop spindle requires more physical effort as it involves continuous hand movement to keep the spindle spinning.

The choice between the two depends on factors such as budget, spinning goals, and personal preferences.

Choosing Fibres to Spin Into Yarn

Understanding different fibres' properties is crucial for matching yarn to a project. Wool offers warmth and elasticity, suitable for winter wear, while silk, cotton, or linen are better for summer garments due to their breathability. Each fibre affects not just temperature but also drape, stitch definition, and overall texture.

Choosing fibres of the same type and/or with qualities similar to the original yarn is advisable. For example, a silk and wool blend could capture a similar essence if the commercial yarn has a silky lustre and drape. The type of spinning fibre you choose will greatly impact the look, feel, and performance of your finished yarn.

Here are some popular fibre options and their characteristics:

1. Wool: Wool is a versatile and widely loved fibre for spinning and knitting. It comes in various breeds, each offering unique qualities. For example, Merino wool is prized for its softness and fine texture, making it ideal for garments worn close to the skin. Shetland wool, on the other hand, is known for its durability and ability to create lightweight yet warm fabrics.
2. Alpaca: Alpaca fibre is renowned for its luxurious softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties. It comes in natural colours ranging from white to black, offering a wide palette for yarn creation. Alpaca blends well with other fibres and adds a touch of elegance to any project.
3. Cotton: Cotton is a cool and breathable plant-based fibre, perfect for summer garments. It's easy to dye, allowing you to create vibrant and colourful yarns. Cotton yarns are known for their durability and versatility, making them suitable for a range of knitting projects.
4. Silk: Silk is synonymous with luxury and adds a smooth, lustrous sheen to yarn. It's often blended with other fibres like wool or alpaca to enhance strength, drape, and visual appeal. Silk yarns are prized for their elegance and suitability for special occasion garments.
5. Blends: Fibre blends combine two or more types of fibres to create a yarn with unique characteristics. For example, a wool-silk blend combines the softness of wool with the lustre of silk, resulting in a yarn that is both cosy and visually appealing. Blends allow you to customise your yarn's properties to suit your project's needs.

To learn about how to get fibres for spinning, read our article: Preparing Fibres for Spinning.

Assessing Fibre Blends for Different Projects

Fibre blends can enhance a yarn's properties, making them important for achieving specific project outcomes. For example, a blend of silk and wool offers both strength and elegant drape, ideal for garments that need shape and flow. Pure cotton yarns are perfect for summer wear but may stretch; blends can help mitigate this issue.

A balanced blend, such as equal parts silk and wool, combines lustre with flexibility, creating a fabric that's both practical and luxurious. Consider the fineness of wool to adjust your yarn's weight, from delicate lace to bulky textures, based on your project's requirements. Reflect on the desired final effect and practical considerations to craft a unique yarn perfectly suited to your project.

These guidelines serve as your roadmap in creating the perfect handspun yarn, leading you through ply, fibre content, and blends to craft exquisite, handmade pieces.

Exploring Spinning Techniques

Spinning techniques are the heart of creating yarn, influencing its texture, strength, and overall quality. In this section, we'll delve into different spinning techniques, from the long draw to the short draw, and explore essential concepts like twist, tension, and troubleshooting common spinning issues. Understanding these spinning techniques is key to mastering the art of spinning and producing yarns that meet your desired specifications.

Long Draw vs. Short Draw Spinning

The long draw and short draw are two primary spinning techniques with distinct characteristics.

Long draw spinning involves pulling a length of fibre back from the spinning wheel or drop spindle, allowing the twist to enter the drafted fibre. It creates a lofty, lightweight yarn with a soft and airy feel, ideal for producing fluffy and warm textiles like sweaters and blankets.

In contrast, short draw spinning involves holding the fibre closer to the spinning wheel or drop spindle, allowing for tighter control over twist insertion. It produces a denser, more compact yarn with enhanced stitch definition, suitable for projects requiring structure and detail, such as socks or intricate lacework.

Woollen vs. Worsted Spinning

The debate between woollen spinning and worsted spinning isn't just theoretical but profoundly impacts the final product. Worsted spun yarns, known for durability and a sleek finish, use long, parallel fibres meticulously prepared before spinning, resulting in firm yarns ideal for precise projects like cables. Conversely, woollen spun yarns embody softness and loft, with shorter, jumbled fibres creating lighter fabrics that excel in breathability. This makes them perfect for cosy, insulating garments or accessories.

Learn more about woollen spinning and worsted spinning through our spinning blogs.

Understanding Twist and Tension

Twist and tension play crucial roles in spinning yarn. The amount of twist added to the fibre determines the yarn's strength, elasticity, and appearance. Understanding twist ratios and twist direction (S-twist vs. Z-twist) allows spinners to create yarns with desired characteristics, whether it's a tightly spun yarn for durability or a loosely spun yarn for drape and softness.

Meanwhile, tension control on the spinning wheel or drop spindle affects the drafting process and yarn quality. Proper tension ensures consistent yarn thickness and minimizes breakage or over-twisting, leading to smoother and more uniform yarns.

Troubleshooting Common Spinning Issues

While spinning yarn can be a rewarding experience, it often comes with its share of challenges that require troubleshooting:

1. Over-twisting or Under-twisting: One common issue spinners face is over-twisting or under-twisting their yarn. Over-twisting can result in a dense, wiry yarn, while under-twisting can lead to weak, fluffy yarn. To address this, adjust the tension on your spinning wheel or drop spindle and regulate your drafting speed. Finding the right balance will ensure a well-twisted yarn with consistent tension throughout.
2. Slubby Yarn: Slubs, which are thick or thin areas in the yarn, can occur due to inconsistent drafting or fibre preparation. To minimize slubs and achieve a more uniform texture, focus on consistent drafting techniques. Pay attention to fibre preparation, ensuring an even distribution of fibres and eliminating clumps or tangles that can cause irregularities in the yarn.
3. Breakage: Yarn breakage during spinning can be frustrating and disrupt the flow of your spinning process. To prevent breakage, improve your tension control by adjusting the tension settings on your spinning wheel or drop spindle. Additionally, refine your fibre preparation techniques, such as carding or combing, to create smoother and more cohesive fibre bundles that are less prone to breakage.

By mastering these spinning techniques and understanding how to troubleshoot common issues like over-twisting, slubby yarn, and breakage, spinners can enhance their yarn-making skills and produce high-quality yarns tailored to the specific requirements of their knitting or weaving projects. Consistent practice, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment and refine techniques will contribute to achieving excellent results in spinning and yarn production.

Plying Yarn

Plying yarn is a fundamental aspect of spinning that involves combining multiple strands of yarn to create a stronger, more balanced, and versatile yarn.

What is Plying and Why It's Important

Plying is the process of twisting together two or more strands of yarn to form a cohesive and stable yarn structure. It plays a crucial role in yarn production for several reasons:

1. Strength: Plied yarns are stronger and more durable than single-ply yarns, making them suitable for projects that require resilience and longevity, such as garments, accessories, and household textiles.
2. Balanced Twist: Plying helps balance the twist in the yarn, reducing the tendency for the yarn to curl or bias in one direction. This balanced twist enhances the overall quality and appearance of the finished fabric.
3. Texture and Density: Plying allows spinners to create yarns with different textures and densities by combining fibres of varying thicknesses, colours, or compositions. This versatility opens up possibilities for creative expression and customization in knitting, weaving, and other fibre arts.

To learn more about plying, read our article: Introduction to Plying Techniques.

Matching Yarn to Knitting Patterns

Selecting the perfect yarn for your knitting projects is an art that blends creativity with technical precision. Let's discuss the intricacies of matching yarn to knitting patterns, considering factors such as fibre type, weight, colour, and texture. Whether you're aiming for a cosy sweater, a delicate lace shawl, or a vibrant accessory, understanding how to choose the right yarn will ensure your finished piece reflects your vision and style.

Factors to Consider

When selecting yarn for your knitting projects, several factors come into play to ensure the best results:

1. Fibre Type: Different fibres (wool, alpaca, cotton, silk, etc.) have unique properties that affect the look, feel, and drape of the finished knitted item. When choosing a fibre type, consider the desired warmth, breathability, and texture.
2. Weight: Yarn weight determines the thickness and density of the knitted fabric. Match the yarn weight specified in your knitting pattern to achieve the intended tension and size of the project.
3. Colour: The colour of yarn can dramatically impact the appearance of your project. Consider the colourway, variegation, and contrast to complement the stitch pattern and overall design.
4. Texture: Smooth yarns, those typically worsted spun, showcase stitch definition, while textured or fuzzy yarns, such as woollen spun yarns, add depth and interest to the fabric. Choose a yarn texture that enhances the desired look and feel of your knitted item.

Matching Yarn to Knitting Patterns

When choosing yarn for a specific knitting pattern, follow these guidelines for a successful match:

1. Tension Compatibility: Ensure that the yarn weight and recommended tension in the pattern align with the yarn you've chosen. If necessary, adjust the needle size to achieve the correct tension and fit.
2. Yardage: Check the yardage requirements in the pattern to ensure you have enough yarn for your project. Consider purchasing extra yarn for swatching, dye lot matching, or unexpected modifications.
3. Fibre Characteristics: Consider how the yarn's fibre content and properties will affect the final outcome. For example, a drapey yarn may be ideal for a shawl, while a sturdy yarn is suitable for socks or garments.
4. Colour and Design: Choose yarn colours and variegations that complement the pattern's stitch motifs, cables, lacework, or colourwork elements. Experiment with different colour combinations for a personalised touch.

Tips for Substituting Commercial Yarn with Handspun Yarn

Substituting handspun yarn for commercial yarn in knitting projects offers a unique and artisanal touch. Here are some tips for a successful substitution:

1. Yarn Weight: Match the weight of your handspun yarn as closely as possible to the recommended yarn weight in the pattern. Adjust needle size and tension swatch to achieve the desired fabric density.
2. Yardage and Skein Management: Handspun yarns may have varying yardage per skein. Calculate the total yardage needed for your project and divide it into manageable skeins to avoid colour variations or running out of yarn.
3. Consistency: Aim for consistency in yarn thickness and twist throughout your handspun skeins to maintain uniformity in the knitted fabric. Practice spinning techniques and tension control for even results.
4. Colour and Fibre Selection: Customise your handspun yarn by blending different fibres or dyeing techniques to achieve unique colours and textures. Consider the project's design elements when choosing fibre combinations.

By understanding these factors and guidelines, you can confidently match yarn to knitting patterns and seamlessly integrate handspun yarn into your projects for a personalised and artistic touch.

Knitting with Handspun Yarn

Unlike commercially produced yarns, handspun yarns carry a unique character, showcasing the spinner's skill and creativity. In this section, we'll explore the art of knitting with handspun yarn, from adjusting gauge and tension to discovering the beauty of its texture and colour variations.

Adjusting Gauge and Tension

When working with handspun yarn, it's essential to adjust your gauge and tension to suit the unique characteristics of the yarn. Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Swatching: Begin by creating a swatch using the handspun yarn and the recommended needle size in your knitting pattern. Measure the gauge (stitches per inch/centimetre) to determine if it matches the pattern's gauge specifications.
2. Needle Size: If your gauge differs from the pattern, adjust the needle size accordingly. Use a larger needle size if your swatch has fewer stitches per inch/centimetre than the pattern gauge, and vice versa for more stitches per inch/centimetre.
3. Tension Control: Pay attention to your tension while knitting with handspun yarn. Remember to avoid pulling the yarn too tightly or loosely, as this can affect the fabric's elasticity and overall appearance.
4. Blocking: After completing your knitted project, block it according to the yarn's fibre content and care instructions. Blocking helps even out stitches, improve drape, and enhance the finished look of your work.

Showcasing the Uniqueness of Handspun Yarn in Knitting Projects

Handspun yarn adds a special charm and uniqueness to knitted items. Here are ways to showcase its beauty:

1. Texture: Highlight the texture of handspun yarn by choosing stitch patterns that enhance its natural variations. Consider using simple stitches like garter stitch or stockinette stitch to let the yarn's texture shine.
2. Colour Play: Handspun yarn often features subtle variations in colour that create depth and interest in knitted fabric. Experiment with colour combinations and gradients to create visually appealing designs.
3. Embrace Imperfections: Embrace the occasional irregularities in handspun yarn as part of its handmade charm. These imperfections add character to your knitted creations and make each piece one-of-a-kind.

Project Ideas for Handspun Yarn

Handspun yarn is versatile and suitable for a variety of knitting projects. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

1. Chunky Scarves: Knit a cozy and textured scarf using chunky handspun yarn. Experiment with different stitch patterns like cables, ribs, or lace to create a unique look.
2. Slouchy Hats: Make a slouchy beanie or beret using handspun yarn for a relaxed and stylish accessory. Play with colours and yarn weights to achieve the desired look.
3. Warm Mittens: Knit warm mittens or fingerless gloves using handspun yarn for added insulation and softness. Consider adding cables or stranded colourwork for extra flair.
4. Shawls and Wraps: Create elegant shawls or wraps using handspun yarn for a touch of luxury and warmth. Lace patterns and delicate edgings beautifully complement the softness of handspun yarn.

With these tips and project ideas, you can make the most of your handspun yarn and create stunning knitted pieces that showcase its unique qualities. Experiment with different techniques and designs to express your creativity and personal style.

Create Handspun Yarns to Knit

Spinning yarn for knitting is a rewarding and creative process that allows you to customize every aspect of your yarn, from fibre choice, whether animal or plant to the spinning technique. By understanding the fundamentals of spinning, experimenting with different fibres and techniques, and practising regularly, you can create unique and beautiful yarns for your next knitting project. Whether you're spinning for relaxation, self-sufficiency, or artistic expression, the journey from fibre to yarn is filled with possibilities and opportunities to unleash your creativity.

If you want to learn more, there are plenty of resources out there. Look into books, online communities, or spinning classes to expand your skills and knowledge. These resources can inspire you and help you grow as a spinner.