Beyond the Spinning Basics

This workshop includes techniques such as even yarn diameter, even slant and appearance in singles and in plying. It is also an opportunity to get help to overcome your spinning problems.
An equipment list will be sent (via the Internet, preferably) once the workshop fee has been paid. Those without email send a stamped addressed envelope to the Guild for the list.
Expertise level: Designed for those who have learned to spin.
Tutor:     Jenny Hopper
When:    Saturday and Sunday, April 21 & 22, 10am - 4pm
Cost:      $130 for members, $160 for non members

Hand Spinning for Hard Wear

First she will run through wheel care and maintenance then investigate what fibres to use for hard wearing garments like socks and gloves. Discuss the benefits of certain fibres and different combinations of fibres for a variety of yarns. The properties of the different fibres relative to wear, comfort and moisture absorption which is important for sock wearers, the elastic component of the yarn, prepare and combine of fibres by hand and drum carders.

Then spin looking at twist angle and direction and the making of two, three or four plys. There are different stages of plying, eg ply three or four strands together at once or 2 x 2 or 2 x 1 plys and the creation of cabled yarns for heels and toes.   

Depending on the time allotment, the design and construction plans of socks will be discussed - this would be for advanced knitters. Or, dye for stripes which allows the knitter to knit socks with stripes without joining the colours. 
Experience level: This workshop is a master class for experienced spinners and knitters
Tutor: Carmel Hanna
When: Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6
Where: Guild rooms
Cost: Members: $160, non members: $220

Rigid Heddle Workshop

This one-day course is ideal for people who want to know how to warp and use a rigid heddle or knitters loom. Students should bring their own looms as the Guild has a limited number of these looms to lend.
Expertise level: Suitable for beginners
Tutor: Lindie Coffill
When: 9:30am - 4pm, Sunday, May 27
Cost: $65 for guild members, $80 for non members
Material list: TBA

Painting with Wool

Noted Lithuanian felt maker Renata Krauz will give a two-day "painting with wool" class. The first day comprises making a bag and designing a picture to go on it and the picture will be completed on the second day. 
Renata's work includes delicate floral arrangements on carry bags and can be viewed on her blog. See examples of a workshop in the US.
Experience level: This workshop is not suitable for beginners
Tutor: Renata Krauz
When: Tuesday and Wednesday, July 7 and 8
Materials list: TBA
Cost: $160 members, $220 non members

Tapestry Brooches

2-day woven tapestry brooches masterclass
Special requirements - students will need a basic frame loom, warp, a bobbin, assorted yarns. Tutor can provide the looms for loan/sale and other items for a materials fee.

Experience level: This workshop is suitable for beginner tapestry weavers
Tutor: Joy Smith
When: Saturday and Sunday, September 22 and 23
Cost: $160 members, $220 non members

Spinning Cotton

Jenny Dunn will get you over the it is too short hump and onto the enjoyable road of spinning cotton.

Experience level: This workshop is for spinners who are comfortable with their wheels/spindles and who can spin a consistent yarn.
When: Saturday, 13 October
Where: Guild rooms

Coiled Basket

A two-day workshop which will produce a large basket and give participants the chance to explore a variety of stitching styles and materials.
Notes on techniques are provided. Workshop also includes discussion around the history and culture of basketry.

Experience level: No previous experience is required, but normal hand strength and mobility, and the ability to use a sewing needle, are essential. The workshop is not suitable for people with significant hand or arm problems (such as arthritis or tendonitis.)
Tutor: Merri Peach
When: Saturday and Sunday, October 20 and 21
Materials fee: $25
Cost: $160 members, $220 non members

Methods of Plying

Marie Clews will show you how to ply your yarn into 2 ply, 3 ply and cable yarns.
Experience level: This workshop is for spinners who are comfortable with their wheels/spindles and who can spin a consistent yarn.
When: Saturday, November 10
Where: Guild rooms
Contact: Guild

Bookings

Contact the Guild Rooms on Thursdays 12 noon to 4.00pm, leave a message on 02 9745 1603 or email at nsweave@spin.net.au. Full payment by cheque (make cheques payable to Hand Weavers and Spinners Guild of NSW Inc), credit card or cash (in person) will confirm your place in the workshop(s) of your choice. Include the workshop form.

Cost: Members $65 per day, non members $80 per day unless otherwise stated.
Time: 9.30am for 10.00am start, finish 4.00pm
Where: Guild rooms upstairs at the back of the hall behind St Paul's church, 205 Burwood Rd, Burwood or in the small hall at the foot of the stairs to the Guild rooms, both air-conditioned.