Carding and Blending Basics

Drum carders and blending boards can be intimidating to a fibre artist. They seem to turn plain fibre into something magical, but are a pricey tool to invest in. In this workshop participants will explore these two blending tools to discover the strengths of each.

We'll begin by examining the drum carder and how it functions, basic maintenance and how to card fleece versus prepared fibre. We will then move on to blending on the drum carder and blending board, discuss the differences between the tools, and how to include fibres like bamboo and silk. You will then learn how to remove fibre from the tools as batts, roving or rolags. 

This workshop is intended for felters, spinners or any fibre artist who wants to learn how to card and blend their own fibres.

Equipment: All participants will have access to carders and blending boards during the class and will have the opportunity to try both tools, as students will be rotating though the different equipment options. If you have access to a drum carder or blending board, please bring it with you!

Materials: All materials will be provided in the Workshop Materials Package including washed fleece, hand dyed fibre, and add-ins like silks, bamboo, Angelina and other fibres. Fees for the Materials package ($40 + HST) are not included in the registration cost and should be paid directly to the instructor when attendees pick up their materials just prior to the start of the class.

Prerequisites: No experience needed.

Class size: 4 people maximum

Class fee: $125, plus a $40 materials fee paid directly to the instructor.  

Scholarships: A limited number of $30 scholarships are available for this class.  If a scholarship would help make it more affordable for you to take this course, enter the code FallForFibre when you register for class. No need to explain or make a special request.

Location: gobsmacked yarn, 6 Ford Lane, Sackville, New Brunswick

Cancellation policy: Registration fees are refundable (minus a 10% admin fee) until 24 hours prior to class.  No refunds are available within 24 hours of class.  (If you are sick, please do not come to class; contact me to make alternate arrangements.)