This is an experiment of what happens when you mix two types of singles spun at different times. Singles one: a natural black Alpaca processed from raw 10 (!!) years ago. Singles two: a dyed merino top in the same hue as the alpaca. The result is a 2-ply yarn - but will it be usable once set?
What are storage bobbins?
Storage bobbins are extra bobbins used to store rewound singles after spinning before plying. They help even out the twist and give them a place to rest before spinning. It is NOT advisable to leave your singles resting on bobbins for extended periods of time, especially not for 10 years! The longer your singles rest, the more relaxed the twist is, only to have it spring to life once wet and leave uneven, undesirable results. Here you have an example of totally uneven rested singles, but the extra twist was necessary, as you'll see by the transformation at the end of the video.
Plying yarn is not just a skill but an art form that you really need to get the feel for, and that only comes with practice. ;)
Do you need storage bobbins?
If you only do small-batch spinning, probably not. I use LeClerc plastic bobbins, which are technically large weaving bobbins.
Filmed in March 2024 in my home studio in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada
About Me
I'm a 12+ year self-taught spinner & dyer: lifelong maker. I've been selling my creations most of my adult life, starting with jewelry. My philosophy as an autodidact is to figure out how best to achieve my creative goals despite what the experts say. I hope my series of humble videos encourage and inspire you to do the same.