What do you think?
Rate this book
How to Spin: From Choosing a Spinning Wheel to Making Yarn
Expert Beth Smith teaches you everything you need to know to spin your own yarn, from choosing a spinning wheel to every stage of preparing your fiber, plying, winding off, and finishing. Fully illustrated step-by-step instructions make it simple and easy!
128 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2016
74 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Beth Smith
3 books21 followersBeth Smith is so obsessed with fiber that she has fleece in every room of her house, including her bathroom.
She teaches the whys and how-tos of preparing and spinning as many breeds as a spinner can in her classes taught all over the world and in articles written for Spin Off, Knittyspin and Entangled magazines. She also writes for Ply Magazine and serves as a member of the editorial advisory board.
She is the previous owner of the world famous online shop ,The Spinning Loft, renowned for it’s selection of raw wool, including rare breeds of sheep , available by the ounce (or more) for studying, sampling or just stashing.
She teaches the whys and how-tos of preparing and spinning as many breeds as a spinner can in her classes taught all over the world and in articles written for Spin Off, Knittyspin and Entangled magazines. She also writes for Ply Magazine and serves as a member of the editorial advisory board.
She is the previous owner of the world famous online shop ,The Spinning Loft, renowned for it’s selection of raw wool, including rare breeds of sheep , available by the ounce (or more) for studying, sampling or just stashing.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 16, 2016
I wish I'd had this book when I had my first wheel - so clear! Although I'm more experienced now, this book taught me nuances I still hadn't quite understood, from the differences amongst tensioning systems to what spinning from the fold really entails. What a splendid new resource!
Thank you, NetGalley, for giving me an ARC of this book.
Thank you, NetGalley, for giving me an ARC of this book.
March 12, 2016
A great introduction to spinning, although I would've appreciated at least a basic introduction to spindling. Smith covers the different types of spinning wheels, how to set it up, troubleshooting, spinning styles, plying and setting the yarn.
*I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
*I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 5, 2016
Intended for the beginner, this work details the process of spinning raw material into yarn in the home setting. The equipment and processes are covered although confusing at times but it can be helpful for the back to nature type.
November 12, 2019
I bought my wheel a few years ago and watched videos on Youtube, but really didn't get anywhere. I bought this book at a fiber event this spring and reading it answered most of my lingering questions. I took the authors advice and loaded up my wheel and attended a class and definitely had some OH! moments where the information finally clicked. I find myself re-reading it before sitting down to spin to refresh myself. It is well written and I appreciate her honesty and go for it attitude.
December 1, 2022
A decent introduction, but missing some key information! This definitely won't teach you to spin from scratch.
December 2, 2015
I coveted my great-great-grandmother’s Saxony wheel from early days. We grandkids used to play at how fast we could treadle, oh what fun, but I longed to work the magic of Arachne. No one in my family knew how, or even cared, apart from watching the lady in the dust cap during Bicentennial celebrations. Fast-forward 25 years, and I shipped the wheel to France with all hopes and intentions of finally bringing it to life. That was 15 years ago…before the advent of social networking (to find the missing parts and skilled artisans who might teach me). Thanks to netgalley offering How to Spin for review, it’s another small step for mankind, and a giant leap for the family wheel.
Yet, it’s common knowledge that learning from a book at home inevitably leads to much confusion and frustration. Ms. Smith admits the importance of connecting with a community of spinners. So then, why the need for one more book on the subject? Because the illustrations are clear and accompany concise explanations—just the thing for the essential daily practice sessions that she strongly recommends. (In my case, as French is not my mother tongue, I will cling to this guide tighter than my Berlitz!) She consoles us, “Above all, be patient. Spinning takes time to learn and a lot more time to master…New spinners need to practice at least 15 minutes every day for two weeks to feel comfortable. But don’t force it. Stop when you begin to feel frustrated. If you start each practice session fresh, you’ll progress more rapidly.”
Smith encourages the value of learning by experimentation, and there are countless aspects involved here. But why not take advantage of the centuries of acquired knowledge in order to advance my skills that much faster? Here is an excellent reference that provides just that: All the basic aspects are covered.
Intro: Take the Spinning Plunge
Chapter One: Spinning in a Nutshell (Tying on a Leader, Treadling, Drafting)
Chapter Two: Wheels and How they Work (Spinning Wheel Parts, Types of Wheels, Drive Systems, Tension & Tension Adjustments, Spinning Wheel Maintenance)
Chapter Three: Fiber Preparations (Carded Preparations, Batt, Combed Preparations, Top, Short-Fiber Preparations)
Chapter Four: Drafting Methods (Woolen Versus Worsted, Short Forward Draw, Short Backward Draw, Supported Long Draw, Long Draw, Spinning from the Fold)
Chapter Five: Perfecting Your Skills (Joining New Fiber, A Matter of Twist, Tricks for Improving Consistency)
Chapter Six: Plying (Lazy Kates, Choosing the Right Whorl, Choosing the Number of Plies, Rewinding Bobbins, Holding Singles for Plying, Plying from a Single Bobbin, Playing From Both Ends of the Same Strand, A Matter of Balance, Winding Off, Winding onto a Niddy Noddy, Measuring the Length of a Skein)
Chapter Seven: The End is in Sight (Finishing Techniques, Snapping, The Importance of Sampling)
Glossary of Spinning Terms, Index
Not being a spinner (yet), I find it very difficult to decide whether to go with a 4- or 5-star rating. I want to say 5, because everything appears to be covered…But I get terribly frustrated in trying to make sense of which end is up…But then, I know darned well that I need to sit at the feet of a living, breathing spinner. 4-1/2 it is!
How to Spin deserves a place in any library, especially in access of hands that want to perpetuate time-honored crafts. How great is that, that no matter how much changes or ‘advances’ in this world, the basic technology of spinning fibers into string is reliable and trustworthy? Tie me up and string me along, this is a skill I want to endorse!
Yet, it’s common knowledge that learning from a book at home inevitably leads to much confusion and frustration. Ms. Smith admits the importance of connecting with a community of spinners. So then, why the need for one more book on the subject? Because the illustrations are clear and accompany concise explanations—just the thing for the essential daily practice sessions that she strongly recommends. (In my case, as French is not my mother tongue, I will cling to this guide tighter than my Berlitz!) She consoles us, “Above all, be patient. Spinning takes time to learn and a lot more time to master…New spinners need to practice at least 15 minutes every day for two weeks to feel comfortable. But don’t force it. Stop when you begin to feel frustrated. If you start each practice session fresh, you’ll progress more rapidly.”
Smith encourages the value of learning by experimentation, and there are countless aspects involved here. But why not take advantage of the centuries of acquired knowledge in order to advance my skills that much faster? Here is an excellent reference that provides just that: All the basic aspects are covered.
Intro: Take the Spinning Plunge
Chapter One: Spinning in a Nutshell (Tying on a Leader, Treadling, Drafting)
Chapter Two: Wheels and How they Work (Spinning Wheel Parts, Types of Wheels, Drive Systems, Tension & Tension Adjustments, Spinning Wheel Maintenance)
Chapter Three: Fiber Preparations (Carded Preparations, Batt, Combed Preparations, Top, Short-Fiber Preparations)
Chapter Four: Drafting Methods (Woolen Versus Worsted, Short Forward Draw, Short Backward Draw, Supported Long Draw, Long Draw, Spinning from the Fold)
Chapter Five: Perfecting Your Skills (Joining New Fiber, A Matter of Twist, Tricks for Improving Consistency)
Chapter Six: Plying (Lazy Kates, Choosing the Right Whorl, Choosing the Number of Plies, Rewinding Bobbins, Holding Singles for Plying, Plying from a Single Bobbin, Playing From Both Ends of the Same Strand, A Matter of Balance, Winding Off, Winding onto a Niddy Noddy, Measuring the Length of a Skein)
Chapter Seven: The End is in Sight (Finishing Techniques, Snapping, The Importance of Sampling)
Glossary of Spinning Terms, Index
Not being a spinner (yet), I find it very difficult to decide whether to go with a 4- or 5-star rating. I want to say 5, because everything appears to be covered…But I get terribly frustrated in trying to make sense of which end is up…But then, I know darned well that I need to sit at the feet of a living, breathing spinner. 4-1/2 it is!
How to Spin deserves a place in any library, especially in access of hands that want to perpetuate time-honored crafts. How great is that, that no matter how much changes or ‘advances’ in this world, the basic technology of spinning fibers into string is reliable and trustworthy? Tie me up and string me along, this is a skill I want to endorse!
May 14, 2020
I have no idea what Beth Smith looks like and I hope I don't offend her but, when I read this book I just picture my grandma sitting beside me teaching me the basics of spinning. That is of course if my grandma possessed the skill of spinning. Beth writes in such a gentle way. It's like she is sitting there with you and not just words on a paper. Again, to sum up what I picture is my loving grandma beside me. The fact that Beth is able to draw up such a thought makes me like the book even more.
The book is definitely a how to. It's an informative read. I wouldn't consider the book long. It's 123 pages, counting the glossary. The book is light weight and small measuring 5x7. The size makes it ideal for on the go travel. There are seven chapters ranging from Spinning in a Nutshell to Plying. Through the pages Beth teaches you how to tie on a leader, how to draft, about wheels-their parts,etc, how to card, how to join new fiber, how to master twist, how to rewind bobbins, how to measure the length of your skein, and so much more!!! For 123 pages you'll learn a ton! Of course, Beth is not afraid to encourage you to try the things you're reading about instead of just reading them. As she knows from experience, there is no teacher quite like hands on learning. In her own words, "Throughout this book, I talk a lot about sampling and trying things out - it's the best way I know to improve skill and confidence. Don't be afraid to experiment." (pg 3)
If you're new to spinning I highly recommend this book. It will give you the knowledge you desire to know which will boost your confidence. In return, you'll enjoy spinning that much more. Seeing how spinning is a lost art but a definite need to know I can't stress enough to pick up a copy and learn this new skill. The next time you sit down to crochet or knit remember to thank a spinner. If it wasn't for them you wouldn't have yarn to enjoy your hobbies with. Thread is the exact same thing but a smaller version. Again, thank a spinner.
They say actions are better caught than taught so here's to you Beth Smith, THANK YOU!
The book is definitely a how to. It's an informative read. I wouldn't consider the book long. It's 123 pages, counting the glossary. The book is light weight and small measuring 5x7. The size makes it ideal for on the go travel. There are seven chapters ranging from Spinning in a Nutshell to Plying. Through the pages Beth teaches you how to tie on a leader, how to draft, about wheels-their parts,etc, how to card, how to join new fiber, how to master twist, how to rewind bobbins, how to measure the length of your skein, and so much more!!! For 123 pages you'll learn a ton! Of course, Beth is not afraid to encourage you to try the things you're reading about instead of just reading them. As she knows from experience, there is no teacher quite like hands on learning. In her own words, "Throughout this book, I talk a lot about sampling and trying things out - it's the best way I know to improve skill and confidence. Don't be afraid to experiment." (pg 3)
If you're new to spinning I highly recommend this book. It will give you the knowledge you desire to know which will boost your confidence. In return, you'll enjoy spinning that much more. Seeing how spinning is a lost art but a definite need to know I can't stress enough to pick up a copy and learn this new skill. The next time you sit down to crochet or knit remember to thank a spinner. If it wasn't for them you wouldn't have yarn to enjoy your hobbies with. Thread is the exact same thing but a smaller version. Again, thank a spinner.
They say actions are better caught than taught so here's to you Beth Smith, THANK YOU!
May 11, 2016
I received this book from the publisher for review
and I wish they had published it when I started spinning. what a great resource!
This book starts off by explaining everything about spinning wheels. Not just the different parts, but the difference between wheel types, which will make purchasing one so much easier for a beginner.
I also really like that it walks you through the difference between preparing long staple vs short staple fibre. What a difference this would have made for me in the beginning lol
This book holds your hand from deciding which wheel is best for you, to the finished product. It explains everything in detail and with pictures where necessary.
A nice addition is also that it goes over spinning accessories in quite some detail, like combs, carders, lazy susans etc.
Most small spinning books just give you a very broad overview of how to get from fibre to yarn, this book even explains what yarn is best suited for what projects.
I adore the storey Basics books also for their xompact size. This one will fit in perfectly with your travelling wheel, or in your project bag.
Even if you only have a drop spindle, there are helpful tips that will make your spinning life easier.
I will deffinitely recommend it to my students from now on.
and I wish they had published it when I started spinning. what a great resource!
This book starts off by explaining everything about spinning wheels. Not just the different parts, but the difference between wheel types, which will make purchasing one so much easier for a beginner.
I also really like that it walks you through the difference between preparing long staple vs short staple fibre. What a difference this would have made for me in the beginning lol
This book holds your hand from deciding which wheel is best for you, to the finished product. It explains everything in detail and with pictures where necessary.
A nice addition is also that it goes over spinning accessories in quite some detail, like combs, carders, lazy susans etc.
Most small spinning books just give you a very broad overview of how to get from fibre to yarn, this book even explains what yarn is best suited for what projects.
I adore the storey Basics books also for their xompact size. This one will fit in perfectly with your travelling wheel, or in your project bag.
Even if you only have a drop spindle, there are helpful tips that will make your spinning life easier.
I will deffinitely recommend it to my students from now on.
May 31, 2017
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who crochets, spinning has always been something in the back of my mind. It has always been something I have been interested in, both for curiosity’s sake and because I want to learn how to do it. While this book was both interesting and informational, however, there were a handful of parts where I didn’t understand the jargon. The author was quick to explain them as well as having accompany images that make what she discussing clear and translate to real like. The images are actually quite detailed and I found myself learning just as much from them as the text. The author has an easy friend tone that feels like she is having a conversation with you rather than teaching you.
While I was unable to put her teaching into practice, I learned a great deal from this book. For a novice, it was an easy clear read that I hope to be able to put into practice someday soon and be able to make my own yarn.
As someone who crochets, spinning has always been something in the back of my mind. It has always been something I have been interested in, both for curiosity’s sake and because I want to learn how to do it. While this book was both interesting and informational, however, there were a handful of parts where I didn’t understand the jargon. The author was quick to explain them as well as having accompany images that make what she discussing clear and translate to real like. The images are actually quite detailed and I found myself learning just as much from them as the text. The author has an easy friend tone that feels like she is having a conversation with you rather than teaching you.
While I was unable to put her teaching into practice, I learned a great deal from this book. For a novice, it was an easy clear read that I hope to be able to put into practice someday soon and be able to make my own yarn.
January 14, 2016
I reviewed this book for NetGalley.
This is the second spinning book by Beth Smith I have read. And she continues to impress me with her deep and broad knowledge and experience in spinning and her ability to clearly and concisely explain how to spin in a friendly, helpful and approachable fashion.
Like most knitters, I am very interested in the characteristics of the yarn I knit and understanding the spinning process is necessary to fully use yarns to make the best garment. This book explains the ins and outs of spinning in a straight forward way - no fluff, no over the top discussions, just a well written primer for novice spinners (or those who want to know more about spinning).
This book, like all Storey Publishing publications, is clearly written and illustrated. Storey always publishes excellent how to books, and this one is no exception.
This is the second spinning book by Beth Smith I have read. And she continues to impress me with her deep and broad knowledge and experience in spinning and her ability to clearly and concisely explain how to spin in a friendly, helpful and approachable fashion.
Like most knitters, I am very interested in the characteristics of the yarn I knit and understanding the spinning process is necessary to fully use yarns to make the best garment. This book explains the ins and outs of spinning in a straight forward way - no fluff, no over the top discussions, just a well written primer for novice spinners (or those who want to know more about spinning).
This book, like all Storey Publishing publications, is clearly written and illustrated. Storey always publishes excellent how to books, and this one is no exception.
January 19, 2016
A great overview on all aspects of spinning - from choosing a wheel and fiber, through various ways of drafting and plying, to how to properly finish the yarn.
I wouldn't recommend this book to a complete beginner, as it does rush over some parts, or tries to explain in words what would be better explained through videos, so I would worry that it might confuse or overwhelm somebody who's never tried spinning before. However, for somebody like me who's just starting out, and who's primarily self-taught, it was a great help, as I could focus on the areas where I felt uncertain, and experiment with techniques that were new to me.
The book focuses on wheel spinning, but as many of the techniques are transferable, spinners who use drop spindles might learn something as well, so I'd recommend flipping through the book regardless, to see if there's something in it for you.
I wouldn't recommend this book to a complete beginner, as it does rush over some parts, or tries to explain in words what would be better explained through videos, so I would worry that it might confuse or overwhelm somebody who's never tried spinning before. However, for somebody like me who's just starting out, and who's primarily self-taught, it was a great help, as I could focus on the areas where I felt uncertain, and experiment with techniques that were new to me.
The book focuses on wheel spinning, but as many of the techniques are transferable, spinners who use drop spindles might learn something as well, so I'd recommend flipping through the book regardless, to see if there's something in it for you.
November 10, 2015
This isn't a glamour puss book full of colour photo and lots of talk. What it is, is a solid book with diagrams, information and common sense instructions on how to spin. From where to start, where to get assistance, and a comprehensive guide to spinning from start to finish and all in between.
It is written in simple terms,very easy to follow and understand - one of the best I have seen for a beginner, if not the best. Spinning is not hard all you need is practise and know how to set up your wheel (with the understanding of the part and functions) This book covers the last part, the practice part is up to you. An excellent book. This book was provided to me in return for a honest and unbiased review
It is written in simple terms,very easy to follow and understand - one of the best I have seen for a beginner, if not the best. Spinning is not hard all you need is practise and know how to set up your wheel (with the understanding of the part and functions) This book covers the last part, the practice part is up to you. An excellent book. This book was provided to me in return for a honest and unbiased review
June 7, 2017
This book is an introduction on how to spin yarn. It discusses wheel set up, how to spin, how to ply, and how to set the twist in your newly made yarn. The information is basic and doesn't overwhelm the reader. I got this book more as a reference than to learn how to spin; I had been spinning for around 16 months when I bought and read this book.
It offers a great introduction to the craft. It would have been a great book for me when I was first starting out spinning. I recommend this book to any person interested in learning how to spin.
It offers a great introduction to the craft. It would have been a great book for me when I was first starting out spinning. I recommend this book to any person interested in learning how to spin.
February 27, 2016
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-ARC of this book.
An excellent, well-written aptly illustrated introduction to spinning.
Storey has done an excellent job with the lay-out and photos. Beth Smith
has explained clearly how to prep, spin, ply and finish your fiber.
One truly could learn to spin from this book
An excellent, well-written aptly illustrated introduction to spinning.
Storey has done an excellent job with the lay-out and photos. Beth Smith
has explained clearly how to prep, spin, ply and finish your fiber.
One truly could learn to spin from this book
March 29, 2017
Helpful for a new spinner
I've been reading tons of articles and watching YouTube videos. Much of this information can be found elsewhere, but not in such a comprehensive manner. The author does a good job of explaining the whys while not overwhelming a new spinner with too much information.
I've been reading tons of articles and watching YouTube videos. Much of this information can be found elsewhere, but not in such a comprehensive manner. The author does a good job of explaining the whys while not overwhelming a new spinner with too much information.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews