Hello, dear spinning enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to weave our way into the heart of hand spinning by exploring the world of drafting. Drafting, for those of you who are new to spinning, is the process of gently pulling and thinning your fiber to prepare it for spinning into yarn.
Just as there are myriad fibers to choose from, there are also numerous methods for drafting, each with their own unique effects on the resulting yarn. Let’s explore a few of these techniques to help you find the one that’s perfect for your spinning goals.
What You’ll Need:
- Your trusty drop spindle or spinning wheel.
- Your chosen fiber. Roving, top, batt, or raw fiber will all do.
- A thirst for creativity and a bit of patience!
The Short Forward Draw (or Inchworm Draft)
The short forward draw, often referred to as the “inchworm” because of its forward-then-back motion, is ideal for beginners. It’s commonly used with combed top, where fibers are already aligned parallel.
To use the short forward draw, pinch the yarn with your forward hand to control the twist, then use your back hand to pull a small amount of fiber forward. When the yarn is the desired thickness, allow the twist to enter and set it. This method creates a smoother yarn, perfect for showing off the shine in silk or the depth of color in dyed fibers.
The Short Backward Draw
The short backward draw, like the forward, is a controlled method and is suitable for both combed and carded fibers. However, instead of pinching and pulling forward, you draw the fiber backward away from the spindle or wheel.
This technique can be more comfortable for some spinners and offers the ability to create either a smooth or fluffy yarn, depending on how much twist is allowed into the drafting zone.
The Long Draw
The long draw is a bit more challenging and is often used with carded fibers. This method creates a loftier, airier yarn, perfect for warm and cozy knits. If you already have some experience with short draws, this method is a good way to expand your skills.
In the long draw, you hold your fiber in your back hand and draw back a good distance, allowing the twist to enter the drafting zone and create yarn. It requires a good understanding of your fiber’s staple length and the courage to let go of a bit of control.
The Double Drafting Method
Double drafting is typically used with fibers that have a long staple length, like flax or some types of silk. In the first pass, you extend your fiber source hand quite a distance from your spindle or wheel, allowing the twist to enter and create a thick, loose “pre-yarn.” Then, in the second pass, you draft this thick section out into the final yarn. This method can be a bit tricky to master, but it’s well worth the effort for the unique texture it creates.
Spinning from the Fold
To spin from the fold, you take a length of your fiber (not longer than your finger), and literally fold it over your finger. The fiber supply is then held in place with your thumb and ring finger. Your forefinger and middle finger control the amount of fiber being drafted, and the end poking out from your hand is what gets drafted into yarn.
The real magic of this method is the resulting yarn. Spinning from the fold can create a loftier, more textured yarn, even from fibers typically associated with smooth, sleek results. Plus, it allows you to easily combine different colors or types of fiber for unique, artistic effects.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Remember, these are just a few of the many methods for drafting your fiber. The beauty of spinning is that there are always new techniques to try, new fibers to explore, and new yarns to create.
And, like every craft, spinning gets better with practice. So, pick a drafting method, grab your favorite fiber, and start spinning! Don’t worry about perfection. Instead, focus on understanding how each technique changes the feel and look of your yarn.
Keep drafting, keep spinning, and most importantly, keep enjoying this beautiful craft. It’s all part of the journey, and each little bump along the way makes you a better spinner. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make “happy little mistakes,” as Bob Ross would say, and let your creativity flow.
If you’ve discovered a drafting method that you absolutely love, or have tips for beginners starting on their spinning journey, please share them with us! We always love to hear about your experiences, see your spinning progress, and marvel at the incredible yarns you’re producing.
Customer Highlights
Check out some of the yarns our community has made! And send us an email with pictures of your own anytime.
