Gradient Yarn spun with a Spin Set

Each Spin Set contains 3 ounces of Merino with one ounce per color.  There are several ways they may be spun.  I recommend 2 set be purchased when using a spinning wheel or if using spindles, purchase 1 spin set and divide each color in half.

The first method is that a spinner can use 2 sets spun in the exact sequence on 2 bobbins.  For example, if the set consists of Blue, Green, and Yellow, One bobbin would be spun Starting with Blue as the first color, Green as the second color, and Yellow as the third color.  The second bobbin would be spun Starting with Blue as the first color, Green as the second color, and Yellow as the third color.  Finally, the singles from both bobbins are plied together to create a hand-spun gradient yarn.

The second method is to split the fibers lengthwise and spin in a sequence of (color 1, color 2, color 3)* repeating from (to) until all fiber is used.  Then spinning a second bobbin in an alternate sequence of (color 2, color 3, color 1)* repeating from (to) until all fiber is used.  Then plying the  2 singles together.  A spinner may also elect to spin the same sequence for each bobbin.

The third method would be to  split the fiber lengthwise and spin in sequence for the first bobbin (color 1, Color 2, Color3)* repeating to end. On the second bobbin the spinner would spin in order all of color 1, all of 2, all of color 3.  This would be plied together for a softer gradient than in Method 1.

The fourth method is chaos spinning in which all three colors are held together and spun in a manner the universe dictates on both bobbins which are then plied together.  The spinner can allow as much or little control in color selection as they like.

Shawl above was hand spun and knit by me.  The pattern is High Desert by Romi Hill and is available on Ravelry.

Peach Pie Spin Set
Peach Pie Spin Set

 

February 20, 2024 — Stephanie Buford

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