Spin Course With Alpaca Wool

Unlock the secrets of alpaca wool with the Spin Course in Braunschweig-Stockheim. This 4-hour workshop takes participants on an immersive journey, teaching the art of carding and spinning raw alpaca fiber. Led by experienced instructor Marisela, the intimate class of 10 will craft their own unique yarn using hand spindles, gaining hands-on skills and a newfound appreciation for this luxurious natural fiber. Cozy up in the charming Alpakadorf shop, sip on refreshments, and let your creativity flow as you master the intricacies of this age-old textile tradition. What else awaits in this captivating alpaca-centric experience?

Key Points

1. The 4-hour spin course focuses on the preparation of raw alpaca wool, including carding and spinning techniques, in a personalized learning environment.
2. The course is led by an experienced instructor, Marisela, who has expertise in alpaca fiber characteristics and proficiency in traditional wool processing.
3. Participants will have the opportunity to create handspun alpaca yarn to take home, with comprehensive guidance throughout the spinning process using hand spindles.
4. Unique properties of alpaca wool, such as fineness, crimp, luster, and warmth, will be covered to provide a deeper understanding of the raw material used in spinning.
5. The course includes materials like hand spindles and drum carders, as well as refreshments, in a comfortable and accessible setting at the Alpakadorf shop.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Course Overview

This 4-hour spin course with alpaca wool promises an immersive experience for participants, taking them on a journey from raw fiber to the creation of their own handspun yarn.

Located at the Alpakadorf shop in Braunschweig-Stöckheim, the course is limited to 10 people, ensuring a personalized and interactive learning environment.

Guided by an experienced instructor, attendees will explore the preparation of raw alpaca wool, master carding and spinning techniques, and have the opportunity to continue their newfound skills at home with a provided hand spindle.

Wheelchair accessible and with a free cancellation policy, this course offers a well-rounded introduction to the art of spinning alpaca wool.

Course Content

The spin course with alpaca wool kicks off with an introduction to the properties and concentration of wool fibers, setting the stage for participants to delve deeper into the hands-on aspects of wool processing.

Next, attendees will learn the preparation of raw wool, including techniques for carding and spinning. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing each participant to try their hand at spinning with a hand spindle, a suitable method for beginners.

Instructor Information

Leading the spin course with alpaca wool is Marisela, who’s been part of the Alpakadorf team since its inception. Experienced in handling alpacas and wool processing, she offers additional spinning courses for wool enthusiasts from autumn 2023.

Marisela’s expertise spans four key areas:

1. Comprehensive knowledge of alpacas and their fiber characteristics.

2. Proficiency in traditional wool preparation and spinning techniques.

3. Ability to guide beginners through the process of spinning with a hand spindle.

4. Commitment to sharing her passion for this artisanal craft with course participants.

With Marisela’s guidance, attendees can expect an engaging and informative spin course that immerses them in the world of alpaca wool and the art of handspinning.

Included Amenities

All necessary materials, including hand spindles, drum carders, and alpaca wool, are provided for participants in the spin course.

Coffee, tea, still water, and a warm waffle are served during the break, while attendees are welcome to bring their own food, with additional drinks available for a charge.

This thoughtful set of included amenities ensures that spinners can fully enjoy the joyful experience of transforming raw alpaca fiber into beautiful yarn.

Whether a beginner or experienced enthusiast, the spin course offers a well-rounded and comfortable learning environment, allowing participants to focus on honing their spinning skills and creating unique, handcrafted creations to cherish.

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Meeting Point and Directions

Conveniently, the spin course meeting point is situated next to the charming marketplace of Stöckheim, within the welcoming confines of the Alpakadorf shop lounge. Participants need simply to arrive at this picturesque location to begin their immersive journey into the world of alpaca wool spinning.

The course offers flexibility, with participants able to check availability for specific starting times and select the group size that best suits their preferences.

To reach the meeting point, attendees can:

1. Take the bus to the Stockheim Markt stop.
2. Park in the nearby public lot.
3. Follow the signs pointing to the Alpakadorf shop.
4. Enter the shop and head to the cozy lounge area.

With these straightforward directions, the spin course is easily accessible, allowing participants to focus on the rewarding experience of working with alpaca wool.

Wool and Fiber Concentration

The spin course’s introduction to wool and fiber concentration provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the raw materials used in the spinning process. Attendees will learn about the unique properties and characteristics of alpaca wool, exploring its distinct fiber composition and how it differs from other common textiles.

Fiber Property	Alpaca Wool	Sheep Wool
Fineness	18-28 microns	20-40 microns
Crimp	Minimal	Abundant
Luster	High	Moderate
Warmth	Excellent	Good

This foundational knowledge equips learners with the necessary context to navigate the subsequent hands-on activities, where they’ll put their newfound expertise into practice through carding, spinning, and creating their own alpaca yarn.

Carding and Spinning Techniques

After gaining a solid understanding of wool and fiber characteristics, participants dive into the hands-on carding and spinning techniques that transform the raw alpaca fleece into beautiful, functional yarn.

The course covers the following essential skills:

1. Carding: Using drum carders, participants learn to align the alpaca fibers, creating a cohesive web ready for spinning.

2. Spinning with a hand spindle: Mastering the art of twist insertion, drafting, and winding the yarn onto the spindle.

3. Controlling tension and consistency: Developing the finesse to produce an even, consistent yarn.

4. Finishing the yarn: Plying the singles into a balanced, polished final product.

With patient guidance from the experienced instructor, beginners quickly gain confidence in these time-honored textile techniques.

Hand Spindle Spinning

For many participants, the hand spindle serves as an accessible gateway into the world of wool transformation. Equipped with this simple yet versatile tool, they embark on a tactile journey of twist insertion, drafting, and winding, gradually shaping the raw alpaca fibers into a cohesive, functional yarn. During the course, the instructor guides learners through the basics of hand spindle spinning, ensuring they gain the confidence and skills to continue their fiber arts practice at home.

Spindle Material	Spindle Weight	Whorl	Suitable Fiber
Wood	Light	Top	Short, fine
Metal	Medium	Bottom	Medium, crimp
Ceramic	Heavy	Center	Long, coarse

The course culminates in each participant spinning their own unique alpaca yarn, a tangible memento of their hands-on exploration of this time-honored craft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alpaca Wool to Spin?

You can certainly bring your own alpaca wool to spin during the course. The instructor welcomes participants to work with their own materials, providing hands-on guidance and support throughout the spinning process.

Is There a Dress Code for the Course?

There’s no formal dress code for the alpaca wool spinning course. Participants can wear comfortable, casual clothing they don’t mind getting a bit messy. The focus is on the hands-on experience, not fashion. Just come ready to get creative and have fun.

Can I Purchase Alpaca Wool After the Course?

After the course, participants can purchase alpaca wool from the Alpakadorf shop. The shop offers a variety of alpaca products, allowing you to continue your spinning journey with high-quality fiber from the course.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Course?

The course doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s open to all ages, so adventurous learners of any generation can join in the fun of spinning alpaca wool under the guidance of the experienced instructor.

Can I Receive a Certificate Upon Completion of the Course?

The course doesn’t offer a completion certificate. However, participants can continue spinning at home with the provided hand spindle, honing their newfound skills and creating their own unique alpaca wool creations.

Recap

The Spin Course with Alpaca Wool offers a unique hands-on experience, immersing participants in the art of working with this luxurious fiber.

Led by an experienced instructor, attendees learn essential carding and spinning techniques, crafting their own personalized yarn.

With a cozy setting, refreshments, and all materials provided, this workshop fosters a deep appreciation for the versatility and beauty of alpaca fiber.

You can check if your dates are available here: