Slowly I’ve been processing some fiber in preparation for spinning. Earlier this spring I purchased some unwashed Merino locks from Janet at Catawampus Farms and under the guidance of some friends washed and dried them.
Although at the time I was CONVINCED I had felted them in the washing process, Susan reminded me I’ve got enough experience with fiber to relax and let them dry. LOL She was right, I didn’t felt them and they dried just fine.
Now I’m starting the hand carding process with them and some dyed Soy Silk that I purchased at SAFF last October:
With the end result of this stage being some really pretty blending in the rolags:
They aren’t perfect rolags by far, but they’ll work for my purposes.
Lessons learned in the process so far:
1. Washing locks isn’t that scary and I enjoy the process.
2. Have patience while they dry.
3. 12 oz of Merino and 4 oz of Soy Silk is a LOT of hand carding.
4. I really want a drum carder as I’m the impatient/instant gratification type; but hand carding has it’s own calming soothing rewards too!