For thousands of years handspinners in all corners of the world have spun yarn shaped by their local environment. From fiber to spindle to dyepot, they have worked with materials available to create yarn suited for where they live. While spinners today might have more options available, there’s something magical about working with materials from nearby—especially in a place as special as the North Shore of Lake Superior. Join us for an all-levels handspinning and natural dye class right on the harbor. We’ll explore handspinning fundamentals on drop spindles and wheels using local wools, forage for natural dyestuffs along the Superior Hiking Trail, and use materials from the Iron Range of Minnesota as color modifiers as we dye outdoors with fresh water from Lake Superior. Students will leave class with unique handspun yarn that embodies the magic of the North Shore, as well as the knowledge of how to create yarn that tells stories of other special places. 

Handspinning typically requires simultaneous use of both hands and feet. If preferred, students may opt to use a drop spindle exclusively during class.

During class we will go on a short hike to forage for natural dye materials. Our route will most likely include walking over uneven terrain, but will not be overly strenuous. 

Spinning wheels will be available to borrow during class (please email info@northhouse.org if you need one), but if you have one at home, you’re welcome to bring it.

Students ages 14+  may register for this course. Youth ages 12+ may register if accompanied by an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full paying adult; call to register. 
 

Required Tools

• Students should dress for the weather forecast. Weather permitting, we will spend time spinning, foraging, and dyeing outdoors. 

Optional Tools

• Spinning wheel, spindle, or e-spinner you use at home
• Spinning footwear of your choice: slippers, socks, or shoes with a soft sole are most common. Hard-soled shoes and sandals tend to be more difficult to spin in. 
• Basket, bucket, or bowl to contain your fiber as you work
• Stool or chair you prefer to use while spinning
• Lap cloth
• Non-skid pad 
• Notebook and writing tool of your choice
• Hiking shoes
• Sun protection: sunglasses, sunblock, sun hat.