Ask Jillian: How Do I Keep My Colors Clear in Chain Ply?

I am so frustrated that the colors in my chain-plied yarn keep combining. I want my yarn to look as close to my hand-dyed braid as possible. Tell me how to keep my colors clear and unmarled. ~Donna, Harrisville, NH Hi Donna, I hate when that happens! The number one reason that I chain ply […]

Ask Jillian: Parallel Drafting Tips

Dear Jillian,  I am having the worst time parallel drafting! My fibers don’t draft well, there’s clumping, and one color frequently falls away. Can you give me some tips to make it easier?  ~Tess (and others) in Jillian’s class at Maryland Sheep and Wool Hi Tess,  Parallel drafting may be my favorite color spinning technique, […]

Ask Jillian: What Should I Consider Before Buying a Wheel?

Dear Jillian, I have been spinning for a year on my Ashford Traditional, and I want to buy a second wheel. What should I consider before I buy one?  ~Margaret  Getting a new wheel is exciting, but it can be overwhelming. Here are factors to consider before adding to your flock. Note: I’m specifically addressing treadle […]

Ask Jillian January 2025 

Ask Jillian! Eleanor from Ithaca, New York asks, “How do you get yourself to practice other styles and structures of yarn? I learn to do something new and then just go back to my default yarn. I want to make new yarns! “