Spin to Knit: The Knitter's Guide to Making Yarn

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Take your knitting to a new level with the addition of handmade yarn! Spinning is easy to learn, handspun fiber is hot (and expensive to purchase!), and with Spin to Knit everything you need to create fun, funky, one-of-a-kind designer yarn is right at your fingertips. Spin to Knit teaches you all the details about fibers, tools, and materials for getting started spinning, and offers a substantial selection of simple patterns for knitting with that fabulous yarn you've created all on your own. Don't want to spin a lot of yarn? No problem, you'll find lots of ideas for combining your precious handspun with commercial, mill-spun yarns or for accenting sweaters and accessories you already own. Urban spinner Shannon Okey, author of KnitGrrl, answers all your burning questions about spinning basics. For instance, what fibers are good for close-to-the-skin projects, what's good for layering, and what on earth can you do with dog fur or recycled fabric? Find out the basic tools you need to get started spinning, whether you should begin with a drop spindle or a wheel, why "lumpy bumpy" yarn is your friend, ways to un-lump your yarn, and how to control singles, twist, and ply. Incorporating color in spinningis also introduced, from "dishwasher dyeing," to incorporating beads, thread, or other media into yarns for visual interest. Inventive patterns include a "refreshed" cardigan-a thrift-store variety garment that is jazzed-up with the addition of a beautiful handspun trim; a boatneck pullover that combines both mill- and hand-spun; a retro pom-pom scarf; a traditional lace shawl; a shrug based on a woven Swedish Heart; a silky sweater made entirely from hairdresser's rayon, and much more. A great feature of Spin to Knit is the addition of in-depth profiles about urban spinners from all over the country. Learn the personal stories of how these spinners got started, and their insider tips for spinning with style. Are you bored with commercial yarns? Dare to be different and accessorize all your knitted garments with handmade yarn. Become a full-fledged fiber fanatic with Spin to Knit, the easy guide for any knitter to easily transform into a spinner!