BOOKS & PATTERNS

This issue explores a lustrous and versatile fiber: silk. Typically we think of silk as shiny and strong, and it definitely can be that, but there is so much more to this fiber, and this issue does a deep dive into all the different types of silk that can be used for spinning as well as the different preps you can find for silk.

We start off with a silk spinning primer from Coleen Nimetz to give you a foundation for working with this fiber, Michael Kelson explores different silks in top form, and Amelia Read Garripoli talks about spindle selection for silk spinning. Sprinkled throughout the issue are photos of silk in various forms and drafts, from top to cocoons to lap to mawata.

Articles explore blending silk with other fibers, looking at different blending tools and the percentages of silk in blends. You’ll also learn about spinning silk for drape, for elasticity, and for luster; about dyeing silk with both acid dyes and natural dyes; and about how different finishing methods affect silk yarns.

And the issue wouldn’t be complete without explorations into the history of silk, from China to reeling with a Zaguri to recreating a Viking tablet-woven band to how silk has been used in the medical field. And Michael Cook shares his personal history with this Queen of Fibers.

Whether you’re experienced with spinning silk or you’ve never spun silk before, you don’t want to miss this issue!