Specialty Yarn

Specialty yarn can be exciting to make. You can let your imagination go. Your choices are unlimited.

I love to ply 2 different colors of single ply yarn together. When I spin a single ply yarn I always spin to the right. To make a double ply yarn I simply take 2 different single ply yarns and spin them together by spinning the wheel to the left.

It does take some time learning to ply your yarn especially if you are using 2 different colors. You need to go slow and attempt to keep the twist even throughout the piece. If you are plying 2 single ply yarns of the same color this is not as important.

For a special treat spin 4 skeins of very thin single ply yarn using a right spin on your wheel. Ply together 2 double ply skeins using a left spin on your wheel. Next,take the 2 skeins of double ply yarn and ply these together using a right spin. This will create a 4 ply yarn with a unique S twist that is beautiful.

You can also add a small loop while you are plying your yarn. Be sure to alternate the single ply strands that you loop or you will run out of one single ply skein before the other. Take your time to ensure that you loop the yarn at equal distances.

Adding beads to the yarn is also fun. You need to choose bead colors that will stand out from your yarn. Small beads are best but you can use any size you want.

You must first sting your beads onto a piece of thread. You will need thread that matches the color of your fleece as close as you can get it. I usually plan to spin around 150 yards of yarn at a time so I will want a spool of thread that is at least 200 Yards.

String a significant amount of beads onto your yarn. You can always break the yarn to add more beads if you need to. If you overload the thread with beads it will be hard to work with.

Place your leader string on the spindle and start spinning with your fleece. Add some thread into the fleece. Work a bead in as you go trying to keep the beads an equal distance apart. Continue to spin slowly adding beads as you go.

If you plan to double ply your beaded yarn it is best to double ply it with a solid single ply that has no beads. You can ply 2 beaded single ply yarns together but you will not be able to keep the beads equal and they will double up.

Experiment adding other things like fine ribbon to your yarn. Embroidery thread in a bright color spun into a natural color yarn can be very striking. Use your imagination! Your craft and skill at making specialty yarn can be fun and profitable.

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