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The Intentional Spinner by Judith MacKenzie McCuin

October 8, 2009 by Terrye

intentional

 Attention spinners! If you are interested in exploring the infinite possibilities of making your own yarns, veteran spinner and teacher Judith MacKenzie McCuin offers insight, understanding, and invaluable information about your craft in The Intentional Spinner.The Intentional Spinner is a compendium of spinning wisdom, with a fun blend of technical knowledge, history, tips, and gently opinionated narrative. Yarn making is approached in three fundamental areas.

  • Understanding Fibers: Compare the rich historic traditions of plant and animal fibers with the fascinating scientific advances in synthesizing fibers.
  • Managing Yarn Structure: step-by-step instructions and photographs demonstrate the range of possibilities in yarn, from sturdy plied yarns to playful novelty yarns.
  • Practical Uses: learn how to make yarns that precisely match your needs with decision making and planning to create the exact project you want from the beginning.

The Intentional Spinner also includes four projects that demonstrate how handspun can be used in weaving and knitting. The projects explain how to choose material, techniques, and finish the processes.

Blending technical expertise and fascinating lore, The Intentional Spinner is a must-read for every spinner.

Who wants this book? I’ve got one copy to give away, leave a comment telling me why you wanted to start spinning!

 

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Comments

  1. SewMamaLady says

    October 8, 2009 at 3:41 pm

    Ooo! Because I just got an Ashford Traveller and I desperately need more educational resources! I don’t even have one book, let alone this cool one. 😉 *wink wink* This looks like a great read.

  2. Heather Griffith says

    October 9, 2009 at 3:57 am

    I wanted to start spinning so i can have more choices for lace yarn.

  3. Turtle says

    October 9, 2009 at 7:11 pm

    I started spinning because i fell in love with knitting and wanted to learn every aspect! (from shearing, dying, spinning) I still feel like i am learning and plan to seek someone out to try and fine tune things this winter! But a resource book would be wonderful!

  4. Kitten With A Whiplash says

    October 10, 2009 at 3:59 pm

    When I learn something new I usually jump into the deep end and either drown or come up sputtering. I’m just learning to spin with spindles, and hope to move to a wheel. Maybe this book would be like a life preserver? I hpe so!

  5. Jean Clay says

    October 11, 2009 at 5:58 am

    I always wanted a spinning wheel and my brother knew this. So when the old lady living near him was down sizing, with a beautiful spinning wheel to sell, he bought it as a gift for me as a thank you for my help with my disabled sister in law (now deceased )So I am now in possession of this beautiful machine and can’t use it yet.

    Thank you

    Jean Cly

  6. Jean Clay says

    October 11, 2009 at 5:59 am

    I always wanted a spinning wheel and my brother knew this. So when the old lady living near him was down sizing, with a beautiful spinning wheel to sell, he bought it as a gift for me as a thank you for my help with my disabled sister in law (now deceased )So I am now in possession of this beautiful machine and can’t use it yet.

    Thank you

    Jean Clay

  7. Carmen says

    October 11, 2009 at 5:43 pm

    I have been fascinated with spinning ever since I learned to knit and crochet. Plus, I just found a local source for natural fibers that I could spin myself. This would be a great resource!

  8. One Sheep says

    October 12, 2009 at 8:03 am

    I learned to use a drop spindle because a wonderful friend kept pushing and pushing until I finally gave in. Of course I knew part of the motive was all the roving for sale in the shop, but I’m still glad I learned.

  9. Lubaska says

    October 18, 2009 at 1:52 am

    I am interested in that book because of friend of mine is a farmer and she doesnt know how to use sheep wool practically. so together we can learn something useful and new.

Have you read?

Knitting Pattern Review: Sabai Top by PaulaStrickt

Trending now — and for good reason!

Alright fellow knitters, if you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably spotted the Sabai Top popping up everywhere. And let me tell you — the hype is totally justified. This lightweight, drapey top by PaulaStrickt has quickly become a must-knit, and it’s easy to see why.

The Sabai Top has that magical mix of style and simplicity. With its elegant A-line shape, soft rolled neckline, and relaxed fit, it flatters every body and suits just about every wardrobe. It’s knit top-down in the round, which means no seams (yes please!), and it flows beautifully thanks to its clever shaping.

It’s ideal for warmer weather and perfect for layering. I’ve seen it styled casually over jeans or thrown over a sundress, and honestly? It looks stunning every single time. That easy, wearable style is what’s made this one take off in the knitting world right now.

PaulaStrickt’s instructions are beautifully laid out, with both English and German versions included. It’s written with clarity and care, and includes helpful photos throughout. I’d say it’s best for confident beginners and up — if you’re comfortable knitting in the round and shaping, you’ll be right at home.

The sizing is generous and inclusive, and it’s so adaptable with different fibres. Linen, cotton, bamboo blends — they all shine in this pattern. I’ve cast on with a blush cotton-linen from my stash, and it’s knitting up like a dream.

This is one of those patterns you just know you’ll make more than once. The fit, the drape, the ease… it’s everything I want in a handmade top. No wonder it’s trending — it’s the kind of timeless knit that never really goes out of style.

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