Spin Your Pet's Fur: A Unique Yarn Workshop

Spin Your Pet's Fur: A Unique Yarn Workshop

Have you ever wondered what to do with all that fur you brush off your beloved dog or cat?

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn the ancient art of hand-spinning to transform your pet's fur into a one-of-a-kind yarn! You'll discover the basics of fiber preparation, drafting, and spinning using a drop spindle. Imagine knitting or crocheting a cherished keepsake from your furry friend's very own "fiber"! No prior spinning experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and your pre-washed pet fur.

When/Where:

Join instructor Tina Nagle – Saturday, July 12^th, 10am-Noon @ Rabbit Row, 24 E Market St, Corning

What You'll Learn:

• How to prepare pet fur for spinning.
• The fundamentals of using a drop spindle.
• Techniques for drafting and creating a consistent single ply.
• Basic plying methods (time permitting).
• Tips for finishing your hand-spun yarn.

What to Bring:

• Your pre-washed and dried pet fur! (See instructions below) We recommend bringing at least 2-4 ounces of fur for a good spinning experience. The longer the staple length (individual fur fibers), the easier it will be to spin, but all lengths can be worked with.
• Drop spindle, if you have your own.

How to Prepare Your Pet Fur for Spinning (Please Read Carefully!):

Proper preparation of your pet's fur is crucial for a successful spinning experience. Follow these steps at least one week before the workshop to ensure your fiber is clean and dry:

1. Collect the Fur: Collect clean fur that is free of debris, mats, and dander. Brushing your pet regularly is an excellent way to collect good quality fiber. Avoid using fur that has been shed on furniture or floors, as it may contain too much dirt or foreign material.
2. Initial Shake Out: Outdoors, give the fur a good shake to remove any loose dirt, dust, or very short fibers.
3. Gentle Hand Wash (in Mesh Bag Recommended):
• Place the fur loosely in a mesh laundry bag or a lingerie bag. This helps prevent tangling during washing.
• Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm (not hot!) water. Hot water can felt animal fibers.
• Add a small amount of a gentle, pH-neutral soap or wool wash (e.g., dish soap like Dawn, or a specialty wool wash). Avoid harsh detergents. (Mane & Tail is also good to use).
• Submerge the mesh bag with the fur into the soapy water. Do NOT agitate, scrub, or wring the fur. Gentle squeezing is acceptable. Aggressive handling will cause felting.
• Let the fur soak for 20-30 minutes.
4. Rinse Thoroughly:
• Carefully lift the mesh bag from the soapy water.
• Drain the basin and refill with clean, lukewarm water.
• Submerge the bag again. Repeat the gentle soaking and rinsing process until the water runs clear and no suds remain. You may need to do this 2-3 times.
5. Remove Excess Water:
• Gently squeeze the mesh bag to remove as much water as possible. Do not twist or wring.
• You can also gently roll the bag in a clean towel to absorb more moisture.
6. Air Dry Completely:
• Remove the fur from the mesh bag and spread it out thinly on a clean, dry surface, such as a drying rack, screen, or old towel.
• Ensure good air circulation. It may take several days for the fur to dry completely, depending on humidity.
• Crucially, make sure the fur is 100% dry before bringing it to the workshop. Any residual moisture can cause mildew and make it difficult to spin.
7. Fluff Gently: Once dry, gently fluff the fur to separate the fibers. Do not pull or tear at it aggressively.

Register in person at Rabbit Row, online at www.rabbitrowyarns.com or call us at 607-654-7383

*Sorry, no refunds. If this class is sold out, please email rabbitrowyarns@gmail.com or call the shop at 607-654-7383 to be added to the waitlist.