Spinning Roving Swap

It arrived today, thank you Gina!

2007-01-31T18:38:00.000-08:00

What a lot of things you sent, Gina. Thank you! I love the gift for baby Alex as well. The little beanie lamb (kid?) will keep him company as soon as I can start letting him take toys to bed with him.

I haven't been spinning much in the past couple of months, but I can't wait to get started again. In fact, I can't wait to start spinning that Blue-faced Leicester you sent me. It's not something we can get locally and I am really curious to see how it spins up.

Thank you!

Thanks Swap Pal!

2006-11-30T20:12:00.000-08:00

Thank you to my swap partner, Jayme!

I recieved two braids of luxurious roving (one from the famed Maryland Sheep and Wool fest!), an awesome cabled gauntlet pattern and TWO handmade spindles! I now have my first drop spindle and a fantastic top whorl to add to my collection. I can't stress how impressed I am to have handmade spindles from my swap partner! As you can see, I haven't waited to dip into the fiber- I couldn't resist!

This was a fun swap, and its been great seeing what everyone has been recieving. Thanks again, swap partner!

Much Delayed Thank You

2006-11-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

I truly enjoyed this swap and was thoroughly spoiled by my swap partner. I blogged about it on my site, but completely for got to post here.

My Spin Rove Swap partner was Kirsten, from Wales. I can't tell you how stoked I was to have an overseas swap partner. Kristen sent me a beautiful handpainted spindle which twirls easily and long. She also included 2 colours of silk roving. The one on the left is natural / earthy. It's spinning up into a lovely neutral taupe colour. The other is a stunning, gorgeous, amazing shade of cobalt blue. It's like looking at a handful of the Caribbean Sea. I must become a much better spindler before I touch this stuff! There was also some chocolate (yum!), some sweets for the kids, and a cute little sheep purse which my daughter adopted immediately and permanently. It was a great package. I keep showing strangers my handful of silk and pretty blue spindle and trying to impress upon them just how cool it is that they CAME FROM WALES!!! Thanks Kirsten! Thank you so much.

Thanks also for organizing this fun swap.

Swapfest

2006-11-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

I got my package and have been horribly remiss in chortling happily about it. I just posted a picture on my blog (I am moving it to typepad, which is part of the problem).

There were a number of pretty pretty rovings that I have been drooling over and waiting to take a class before I do anything with it (because I feel very much like a rank beginner with all of the fabulous fluff) and a glorious light up spindle. She gave me a pattern for the Celtic hat from Girl from Auntie (which I have always thought was really cool, but have never bothered to make) and kitted up a special treat that I am going to make for someone for Christmas.

Thank you, Amy!

I'm a spaz

2006-11-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank Melinda for my excellent swap package (which I got on Halloween, but totally forgot to post over here).

A picture:

What you're seeing there: Knitscene with many patterns in it (specifically marked by Melinda as to which she thought would work well with handspun), a Schact spindle and spindle bag, lambswool that Melinda hand-dyed with Kool-Aid (the roving that looks like a rainbow), a merino/tussah blend (the mostly purple roving), a crocheted pin that will look great on one of the patterns in the Knitscene, handmade stitch markers (leopard print), Halloween Peeps, and chocolate.

And lest I forget, the box that it all came in which was beautifully decorated and which my cat, Joe, has made into his new bed:

This was a wonderful package from start to finish. Thanks, Melinda, for making my introduction into spinning so great. :)

Swap Clean Up

2006-11-13T21:58:00.000-08:00

It looks like most of you have received your packages. We've sent out inquiries to those from whom we haven't seen or heard a status of their package, as we would like to conclude this swap before the Holiday season ties us up. Please let us know if you have any concerns at SpinRoveSwap at yahoo DOT com.

Christina and I enjoyed organizing this swap, and may do one again in the future. You were a fun group to work with!

We hope you all had fun!

Received my package

2006-11-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

Spinning Roving Swap

I'm late in posting this, too. And I have no photos to post and I have no blog....
but I received a super swap package from Seanna!!! She spoiled me with TWO beautiful spindles from Spindolyn... they are support spindles and come with a gorgeous candlestick style holder.... They both spin beautifully and the support takes the "drop" out of drop spindles....
And she included three large bundles of roving....in beautiful shades of copper, beige and grey..... I think it might be merino and tencel....lovely to spin. She included two patterns, one which I want to try right away and the other will have to wait until after the first of the year.
AND I can't forget the chocolate. Seanna Lee introduced me to Neuhaus Belgian chocolate....wonderful, rich and creamy....
I was truly spoiled....
As others have said, this was a fun swap! Thanks to Christina and CJ for organizing it! A special thanks for Seanna Lee for being such a great swap partner!!

pj

Good from Evil (Julie)

2006-11-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

I received my swap parcel from Julie this week - Thank you so much! I love the Electra Lisa Souza roving, the silk hankies, and the wooden top-whorl spindle. Also included were some pretty blue stitch markers, and some delicious chocolate. This was a fun swap - thanks to all for the hard work and willingness to follow through!

Received my package

2006-11-07T06:08:00.000-08:00

I am a little late posting the pics, but here are the wonderful gifts that I received from my swap partner The Bon. Some koolaid dyed roving(4oz) and 3 (1oz) packs of roving from Paradise Fibers. The colors are copper, lilac haze and cranberry.
She also sent me two patterns, a hat pattern Coronet and a change purse pattern Best Friends. Both are from Knitty.com. I also got a sheep tape measure and a bookmark. They candy did not make it to the photo session! I hope you all had as much fun as I did and I look forward to doing this again sometime.

thanks to the coordinators of this swap!!!

Spinning Roving Swap

2006-11-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

Spinning Roving Swap
Neat package arrived!
Laura sent a wonderful package of surprises that arrived on Thursday. She had already sent me a website for a hat and glove pattern. In the package were instructions for felted clogs which I intend to make for Christmas! Wonderful fiber--llama and alpaca/corriedale accent roving, and a CD spindle since I had told her I haven't been able to master that art with my bottom weighted one. Also chocolate! And a bag of "non-identified but very soft and lovely wool" for me to practice my carding skills with! I am very pleased and this has been a lot of fun.
Harriet

Spinning Roving Swap

2006-11-01T18:58:00.000-08:00

Okay, how about this?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/fiberangel/DSCN2293.jpg

Spinning Roving Swap

2006-11-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

I got my package in the mail yesterday! I got TONS of stuff. It was SO exciting. My pal was Rebecca. YEA! I got wool blends in hot pink and purple, cotton/wool blend in purple, a crochet hook, crochet hook pads, darning needles, and a magazine with patterns for baby stuff for my coming little one. The magazine is absent from the picture because I was reading it in my car and forgot to get it out. Here it all is:
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/fiberangel/DSCN2293.jpg[/IMG]

Package ready to go

2006-10-30T19:09:00.000-08:00

It's a little bit late, but my package will be in the mail tomorrow as I will finally have a chance to get to the postal outlet during the day. Sorry pal, but it is coming.

Spoiled!

2006-10-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Above is my loot from the wonderful Chante of Harlem Purls! After some fun with the post office [sometimes they "attempt" to deliver by not bothering to knock on my door and then when we went to the PO on Saturday to pick up the box they had misplaced it] my goodies arrived this morning. Boy, did I ever get spoiled! For starters, a copy of Spin -Off with an article about beading yarns in it. I happen to have this copy on loan from someone and was lamenting the fact that I'd have to give it back. Now I have my own to keep! Then, we have 7 packets of acid dyes, two shades each of red, blue and yellow [one warm and one cool] and a packet of black. There's a nifty like wpi gauge which is good since I've been using the handle of a baby spoon. This is much more convenient.

As to the fiber she sent, be prepared to be jealous. There's 4 ounces colonial wool in navy which has a lot of depth to it. There's also 1 1/2 ounces of BFL ready to be dyed with my new dyes. And finally, there's 2 ounces of a super super soft merino/cashmere blend. It's absolutely wonderful!

As you can see, there's one more item in the package. A skein of Socks that Rock yarn! It's so sproingy and wonderful. I can't thank Chante enough, everything she sent to me is fabulous!

Spun Roving and Hat!

2006-10-30T13:23:00.000-08:00

Spun Roving and Hat
Originally uploaded by bannaoj.

Thank you Kathy! I already spun this lovely merino up and even knitted a toddler hat from the Starry Night colorway.

And here's the wonderful Cascade spindle I got. Perfect for spinning a merino/silk blend I'd been having trouble with! http://www.flickr.com/photos/bannaoj/283934592/

I've Been Spoiled!

2006-10-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

A huge thanks to Jacki from CiderMoon, who spoiled me completely!

Blogger seems disinclined to load photos today, so details can be found on my blog.

Thank you again Jacki, I cannot wait to spin these!
~Flan

Lovely Things from Australia

2006-10-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

I should have posted a while back about what I received from my pal, Celia. She sent me some very lovely camel and baby alpaca to try spinning. I posted a picture of the package and a better description to my blog. Both fibers are undyed and I've never tried spinning either kind before, so I'm looking forward to trying them out!

And today, the last piece I needed for my pal's box arrived. I'm going to have a hard time making it to the post office tomorrow, but it's going to go out on Saturday, first thing.

And Another's on the Way.

2006-10-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

I've just sent to my pal, so look out, it's coming!

This Was Definitely Worth The Wait

2006-10-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

Here is the lovely, lovely gift I got from Gina. It was perfect for me. A tiny Cascade Spindle along with perfect fibers to spin into laceweight yarn so that I can try out the very beautiful lace scarf pattern. Some Ingeo in white, some lovely green wool and another white bundle of Silk and merino which is the softest I've ever touched. I can't forget the stitch markers she made herself and CHOCOLATE! I love this package. Thank you Gina!

Here it comes!!!

2006-10-25T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Swap Pal,
Your package is on its way!!! Keep your eyes open you should receive by this Thursday or Friday at the latest.

Friday October 27th

2006-10-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that this Friday (October 27th) is the last day to send out your packages. Please email us when you have sent or received your package so we can keep a better tally. If you have posted to the swap blog, that's fine as well. Thanks everyone!

Pictures of My Package

2006-10-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

I posted last Friday about receiving my package but didn't have any pictures to show. It was late Sunday afternoon when these pictures were taken, so I apologize for the shadow of the window frame. It was too windy to take everything outside.

Here is a picture of everything I received from my wonderful pal Silvia.

The big undyed ball is Blue Faced Leicester and the small one is Wensleydale.

The plummy roving is Merino.

Here is a closeup of the cute stitch markers Silvia made for me. Aren't they great?

And look how pretty the paper is that each goody was wrapped in.

The book Silvia sent is great and I am going to Rhinebeck this weekend where I am sure I will have no trouble getting someone to give me a lesson or two with my new Ashford spindle.

Thank you, thank you Silvia!

My Box is finally on it's way

2006-10-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

Swap Pal....It's a comin. I had alot of fun filling it up with goodies, I hope you
like it. I'm off to Toronto for a mini vacation to go see the Creative Sewing and Needlework Festival. Can't wait. Should be a ton of shopping going on. I hope your box reaches you quickly!

No, really.

2006-10-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

I got the best Roving Swap Pal!!!
Sorry guys, but it's true.

Morgan spoiled me absolutely rotten. Really!

She sent a huge bunch of undyed merino roving, some beautiful sparkly batts from Spritely Goods, (in Pink Guava and Moss)

AND some roving from Spunky Eclectic! Two wool blend rovings (in Hot Dog! and Oddities) and a gorgeous merino roving in Confused colorway.

It's so much more than I expected, and all so beautiful! I was actually struck speechless, and wandered around with a huge grin for awhile (heck, I still have it whenever I look at my wool room!)

Thank you Morgan!!!

Less than two weeks left to send out your package.

2006-10-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

This is just a gentle reminder that all packages must be sent out by Friday, October 27th. That's less than two weeks from today. Please contact your pal to ensure you are sending to the correct postal address. Delivery confirmation is highly recommended (but not required). Keep those posts coming! We're seeing some really great stuff out there!

Pretty!

2006-10-15T06:02:00.000-07:00

Lookee, everybody, lookee what I got!

Super soft silk/merino that I can't wait to spin!

Thanks so much, Meera! My package arrived yesterday, and I adore the colors! (I forgot to take a picture that included the patterns, but she sent me TWO! Both are from Knitty -- Urban Rustic Gloves, and Voodoo Wrist Warmers.) More on my blog later today (baby allowing) or tomorrow.

Can't wait to spin!

2006-10-13T22:28:00.000-07:00

I got my box from Charity today! I got an Ashford spindle, some lovely dark sapphire colored English wool, some cotton yarn to add to my collection, A great felted clutch pattern, some tea pyramids (so very cool) and some chocolate (that didn't stand a chance in this house!). I can't wait to get spinning. The wool is so wonderful and soft, and it drafts like a dream! The spindle has a nice heft to it and is perfectly balanced.

This was my very first swap, and I know it won't be my last! What a wonderful experience this has been : )

My Lucky Day

2006-10-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

... was yesterday! I received my package from Silvia and what a package it was. It contained a wonderful Ashford spindle, three kinds of roving (Merino, Blue Faced Leicester, and Wensleydale), "Spin It" by Lee Raven, and other goodies (candles, stitch markers, and a very interesting soap, each one wrapped in beautiful handmade paper), and a sheep postcard that makes me smile every time I look at it.

Unfortunately I haven't been able to take pictures yet as the days have been grey and rainy and I don't get home until it is nearly dark. But finally it is the weekend and I plan to take lots of pictures tomorrow to show you just what a fabulous pal Silvia has been.

Thanks Silvia!

Thanks, Lisa!

2006-10-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

I got my box yesterday...and wow! Lisa definitely spoiled me....

This is hand-dyed by Lisa superwash roving....its just beautiful! So soft...and a really nice pattern too - Fibertrends Lupine Lace socks.

Lisa also packed the box with other goodies - candy, drink rimmer and a candle. More details are on my blog.

Thanks Lisa - I couldn't have asked for a better swap partner!

Package going out tomorrow

2006-10-10T04:33:00.000-07:00

My pal had indicated she'd like a particular sort fo warm fibre which I am unfortunately not able to get my hands on. I hope this is acceptable instead. In terms of warmth and softness, thsi should be just as warm and as soft, just not as fuzzy.

On the left is 100g of baby alpaca fleece. I have spun some of this myself, and my, oh my, it does come out fine and soft. The fibre on the right is 50g of camel top. It's lovely and soft but I have not tried spinning it so I can only hope it spins as beautifully as it feels.

The pattern I am including is one of the Margaret Stove pattern sheets. It has 3 patterns for lace scarves on it and is called "Luxury Lace Scarves".

Pal, it's on it's way to you. I hope you like it!

Wow!

2006-10-09T22:12:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Christina and I decided to swap our SRS packages. She was incredibly generous! Let's see...

There's an awesome container to hold my spindles (which I've already taken advantage of), chocolate (Ghirardelli Carmel, Lindt Extra Fine Milk, Seattle Truffles), a Spin Dizzy spindle Turkish style spindle, lucious Tussah silk, a booklet for silk spinning, totally tubular roving, a pattern for a hat, and a microscope slide pendant she crafted (with a pup who resembles Bear).
Thank you Christina! You put a lot of thought into the package and I appreciate it!

Whee! Thanks to Jeanne...

2006-10-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of the package I received from Jeanne.

The roving is alpaca in three natural colors, and should spin up beautifully. The pattern is on for socks with a Gansey design, which is something I hadn't thought of doing but I like the idea. Certainly should be easier than fair isle. And the handmade brooch is in the shape of a sheep, fastening with a long straight pin that makes it perfectly suitable for a kilt pin. I've wanted to weave myself a kilt for a long time, so this may be the right inspiration. There was also a bar of dark chocolate, which matched the alpaca beautifully and really did survive long enough to be in the photo but slipped down under where you can't see it. (Honest.) Thanks, Jeanne!

Spinning Roving Swap

2006-10-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

Spinning Roving Swap
My package is finally on its way too! It only has to go about half-way across the continent! This was fun to put together and a learning experience for a novice since I had to study a bit to make my choices. Thanks to our organizers! And happy spinning.

Many, Many Thanks!

2006-10-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

I got my swap package from Gary on Friday. He sent the most beautiful roving AND a pattern he designed himself to go with it.

The fiber is BFL in a great colorway called Velvet Moon. I can not wait to spin this up. Thank you so much Gary.

Thank you Swap Partner!!!

2006-10-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

Thank you Flan for the wonderful package!!! It arrived yesterday, but I just opened it now because for some reason it was delivered next door to my parents and and not at my actual house.

I love the fiber - the purple is awesome! Just such a beautiful shade and such great depth of color.

I have a larger photo posted on my blog - the above photo is just a snippet of the loveliness.

Thanks again!

Tamara (who incidently is currently in need of chocolate!!!)

Traveling...

2006-10-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

My box of roving is now traveling onto it's new home. I had a bit of a time getting the roving just right. My first attempt was to dye 'watermelon' roving; red & pink with spots of black & green. It looked fantastic when wet, blah when dry. So I finally decided to overdye the whole think with a deep purple. Gosh, I think it's the best roving I've dyed! There is a neat rose color at the very center of the roving that I think will blend in when spun and give the yarn a nice glow.There is 6oz of Blue Face Leicester (extra roving for a very cool pattern). I sure hope my pal likes it!
I also wanted to let you guys know about a swap I'm hosting, The Handspun Sock Yarn Swap!
Happy Knitting~
Rae

It's finally!!! On its way!

2006-10-06T03:34:00.000-07:00

So my package is finally on its way. By Saturday my pal will be opening a box full of yummy goodness. I had fun smelling all the wonderful tea smells yesterday. I can't wait for her to get her box....hee...hee...hee. Thanks to the organizers for the swap. I had lots of fun!

Parcel Post is gone:)

2006-10-06T03:14:00.000-07:00

It has left these Shores today..well I took it to the Postoffice. So now the wait starts for my swap partner to recieve it and hopefully like what I have send.

Gone, gone, gone

2006-10-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

My parcel is packed and mailed to my pal! This was a lot of fun - thanks to you organizers for all your hard work :0)

Roving as Art?

2006-10-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

Loribird, "The Roving Wall" (ca. 2006) Private collection, Alaska.

I was tired of not being able to see my wool, so I worked out a way to store and display it. Details on my blog, if you like.

I'm patiently awaiting the next installment for the piece.

[edit: I've posted a home-made Roving Braiding tutorial on my blog, for those who want to know how...]

Present in my mailbox!

2006-10-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Miranda for the gorgeous roving...pics are on my blog.

And a great big thank you also to Christina and CJ for organizing this great swap!

Lisa

I Love Packages!

2006-09-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love to come home from a trip to find a lovely package waiting?

Many thanks to Kaity, my wonderful secret pal! She sent 4 oz. of merino in "Fall Squall," blues with hints of brown. There's also a large bag of soysilk, which I'm very excited to dye and try spinning. Kaity even sent a beautiful skein of Claudia Hand Painted Yarns' merino fingering in "Just Plum," which I love. It's such a pretty colorway. Not pictured are the Reese's Bites, which my husband tore into last night, and a copy of Madge from Knittyspin. What a haul! I'm looking forward to trying the pattern and working with all that fiber.

I sent the package for my pal today. There's a picture on my blog, but maybe you don't want to spoil the surprise if you haven't received your package yet!

All packed up

2006-09-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

My box is all packed up and will be on its way to my pal tomorrow. I hope he likes it!

Countdown-One Month Left

2006-09-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

Hello!

We hope everyone is having fun! We're glad to see that packages are gradually making their way to their recipients. What wonderful packages they are! There's only about one month left before the mailing deadline of October 27th. This week would be a good time to start getting those online orders made since it will give you enough time to recieve them, and get your swap package out on time. We're so excited to see what everyone gets.

Thank you Loribird!

2006-09-27T12:18:00.000-07:00

Remember those adorable alpaca pics from Alaska a while back? I saw them and thought...oooh Loribird's pal is super lucky...and then a box arrived full of luscious alpaca goodness. It showed up last week but I couldn't remember the new blogger name I made up since I couldn't join the blog with my usual blog, but I finally figured it out so I can thank Loribird once again. Since it's been a week, in the meantime I've been spinning and working on the pattern she included which so kindly only uses ~60 yds of wool and a fraction of the roving. Here's the yarn:

knit into Madge from Knittyspin
(not yet blocked because I'm impatient like that)

Such wonderful fun fiber to work with and a great and quick pattern. Near-instant gratification. And lots more fiber left over for other hats or matching mittens or something. Meanwhile, my box is almost ready to go out to my pal, I'm just proofchecking the pattern and dyeing some mohair locks for embellishment and it'll be off...

It came,it's here and it's all mine!!

2006-09-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

I got my Parcel today!! And it is more then I could have imagined!! The roving is such a delicious color I love it and the Spindle...I don't know what to say about the spindle. I never seen anything like it. It I ceramic and blue (favourite color) and just awesome. I am so going to spin my heart out with that little beauty. The Magazine is terrific and i am drooling over everything in that as well. And thank you Beth for all the other little goodies as well!! Although not sure about the Witch...maybe you know me better then I think...lololo. She is very cute though. My Swap Partner was Beth and she surprised me and surpassed herself no end!!
I just hope my Swap girly will enjoy her gifty's as much as I do mine. She will have to wait a little while longer as i am getting her things on the weekend..so please be patient.
I will post pictures in my Blog later....www.fromthesheepsback.com...I have to come back down to earth first!!!!!!!!!

Three Cheers for Spinning Dervish!

2006-09-25T22:22:00.000-07:00

I received my package today!

As teh mailman entered the building @ work, I knew the box in his hand was for me...I just KNEW it :) I started dancing around and got the box cutter out before he even got up to my desk! I think he thought I was a little...off...but I was just so excited to explore the fibery goodness I knew would be inside!

I got two different shades of luscious brown alpaca fiber and a bit of fawn colored suri-alpaca...the stuff is just HEAVENLY...I've been wanting to try spinning alpaca since I first started spinning and now I get the chance :) I just KNOW it's going to be like butter...the roving is so soft and easily pliable and just begs to be spun up.

Alas...all my spindles are in use! *gasp* I've been spinning my wool/opossum blend all night, trying to finish it off so I can get that off my favorite spindle, the Lionheart, and get some alpaca in the works....*drool*

I also got some stitch markers with beautiful beads on them, three patterns, some Wizard of Oz bookplates, tea, taffy and her son put a hacky sack in the package for my son :D It's just the box that keeps on giving for everyone in the family, lol.

I am working on my secret pal's box...never fear, secret pal! I haven't forgotten about you! I just want to make sure your box is a wonderful experience for you and you love it as much as I love the box I got :)

Thank you again, Spinning Dervish, you've made this swapper's week :)

Melinda

Swap partner are you out there?

2006-09-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

I unfortunately have not heard from my swap partner yet. CJ and christina have been very helpful and say my partner has tried to contact me a few times without any luck. I haven't recieved any emails from her (yes, I've been checking my junk filter) . I haven't gotten any blog comments from her either. If you are my partner I'd really like to hear from you. Please comment in this entry so I know you are out there, Thank you!

My package is here!

2006-09-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

I posted at my journal about the arrival of my roving package. Thanks, Coley! You did a beautiful job. I've never tried to dye using the crockpot before. How does that work?

I got my Package!!!

2006-09-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Cayli of Spin Yarn for Ewe, who was my pal for the lovely package. I love everything in it. The package actually arrived on Friday, but unfortunately no one was home to recieve it, and due to prior committments I could not pick it up on Saturday. So it spent the whole weekend at the Post Office alone, with no one to admire its fibery goodness. But all is well now and is being duly admired.

Its funny because I saw the blue fiber on you blog and immediately liked it. In fact I thought to myself that it had to be for me, because of what was said and that fact that I like the color blue. I don' t have any pictures yet but I am working on it. As for me my package is just about ready to be sent, probably by the end of the week. I enjoyed this swap!

Everybody have a great evening!

Swap box is on its way!

2006-09-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

The box to my secret pal is officially on its way west. According to the PO, it should arrive Monday. Hope she has as much fun getting it as I had putting it together!

I received my package!

2006-09-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks, Tamara, for the gorgeous wool top and other fun stuff. I can't wait to try a bit of the Ingeo that you sent too. The colors you chose are gorgeous, and the patterns look fun, especially the fingerless gloves. My office is so cold in the winter and I had already planned to make a pair to keep my poor fingers warm. Thanks for making my day!

The box for my sp is almost ready to go, I just have to get one more thing (like, the fiber, duh). Should go out next week!

Package Ready to Go!

2006-09-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

I bought fiber this week from Detta's, my local provider of roving. I think my pal is going to love it! The package is all together, so it is just a question of making it to the post office in time to mail it.

I'm so excited to see my pal's reaction!!!

~Flan

loving it

2006-09-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I love putting packages together. I have a few to do for a few swaps that I am in and tomorrow is my mail off day!! WOOT!!

There is something so cool about giving ...

Got it!

2006-09-17T04:10:00.000-07:00

I got the roving for my partner yesterday....I think its really really nice and unique (hopefully my partner will think the same!). I bought it at a local fiber festival. Now I just need to get the pattern and pack it all up! I think I know the perfect pattern, so hopefully I'll get this out this week.

Roving sent out...

2006-09-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

Someone has some luscious alpaca heading their way...
I sent out my roving box today - it's migrating south (from Alaska, there aren't many other directions to go!) as I type!

Package on the Way

2006-09-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

My pal's package is on the way. According to the Post Office she should have it by Saturday. If you want a peek at what is in it you can see it here. I put some other fun stuff in there too but you will have to wait until she gets it to see it.

Excellent Spinning Blog

2006-09-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone -

Well, I've been very busily picking out the fibers for my Swap Partner. Along the way I've been visiting the blogs of some of the other members of this swap - what fun! Anyway - I've noticed how many participants here are very new to spinning and how many are ready to learn new things so I just want to share a link with you all. My spinning teacher from when I first learned to spin just started her own blog. Even in the first month since she has been posting she has an incredible amount of spinning information up and available for us all to read. It is like taking a class from your home! If you get a chance, click on over to Spinning Spider Jenny, and give her a read! You won't regret it! (Check out her spun silk on her September 12th entry, you'll start drooling!)

Have fun!
Tamara

Looking for a box...

2006-09-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

My package contents are ready to go; they just need a package to go in. I'm excited to see how my spoilee feels about the items I chose for her, especially the pattern.

...now all I need is a pattern!

2006-09-09T23:17:00.000-07:00

Wow! I had the most amazing experience today!
Took the kids with me and went to an alpaca ranch about 2 hours north of where I live... It was incredible! We got to pet the critters, the girls played with the ranch owner's daughters, and I bought some beautiful fiber to send to my pal! I even met the animals my pal's fiber was sheared from.
Here's just some of the haul.
The darkest brown came from a sweet girl named Clover, the champagne colored wool from another female named Chilly B., and the raw fiber is actually from the little guy in the photo below.

He was very friendly, and quite curious about the camera.
What an amazing opportunity we got to take advantage of! I wish my pal could have enjoyed it, but I'm sure the locally raised Alaskan alpaca wool will take some of the sting out of missing it...
I've got a few good patterns picked out; I just have to decide which to send, and I'll be ready to ship it out!
I'll be posting a lot more on my blog tomorrow.

Sorry pj

2006-09-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

Hi here are my answers to pj, I am so sorry but my e-mails to you keep coming back undelivered. Here are my answers to the questionnaire 1) How long have you been spinning? I have only just become interested in spinning, I have the book "Spinning the Old Way". I thought that this swap would be a good way of finding out about spinning and getting the stuff I needed. 2) Are you a beginner, novice, or experienced spinner? See above, complete beginner 3) Do you spin on a drop spindle or wheel, or both? Don't have anything yet! 4) What types and weights of drop spindles (or what type of spinning wheel(s) ) do you currently own? See above 5) What type of fibers have you spun with before? See above 6) What fibers do you prefer to spin with? I will try anything once, I will leave it up to you as what you think is the best to start with. 7) What fibers do you dislike? 8) Do you prefer natural colored fibers, or handpainted/dyed fiber? I prefer handpainted/dyed fiber 9) Would you prefer all one type of roving or smaller amounts of different types to sample? I think maybe just one or possible two as I am so new to this. 10) What are you favorite colors? My favourite colors are jewel colors (purple, green, red, blue) 11) What colors do you dislike? Yellow and sludge colors. 12) What would you like to do with your handspun yarn, or what do you plan to do with it? (pattern clarification here)? Something quite easy, not sure. 13) What spinning projects are you currently working on? 14) Do you have a wishlist? No I do not, maybe I should. 15) What are your other favorite hobbies? Knitting, reading, shopping, having cakes and tea with my friends. 16) Do you have any allergies (pet, smoke, food, fiber,etc...)? Smoking upsets my asthma. 17) What is your preferred shipping method (USPS, UPS, FedEx)? Any, whatever is easiest for you. Hope these help

A friendly reminder

2006-09-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Participants, please abide by the rules and contact the person you are sending to as soon as possible.

***If you are unwilling to participate in this swap due to a change in life circumstances, please let us know right away so we may have an angel assigned.***

Also, please send all swap related emails to spinroveswap AT yahoo DOT com, so both of us will be able to see your concerns and simplify our email traffic.

Thanks for your cooperation!

Pattern Question

2006-09-06T09:39:00.001-07:00

I'm so new to spinning that it hurts, so I'm asking for advice in choosing a pattern for my swap pal from some of you Rebel Spindlers. How much yarn can you expect to get from 2 oz. or roving? I want to give my partner a pattern that she could make with the supplies I'm giving her, but would hate to give her a pattern that called for too much yardage. Can someone give me a general idea here? Thanks!

Please contact your match ...and another FAQ

2006-09-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

Please contact the person you are sending a package to as soon as possible.

Some participants may have other responsibilities (or live in a different time zone), so please be patient if you haven't heard from the person sending to you right away.

If you don't hear from the person who is sending a package to you by Friday, please send us an email (spinroveswap AT yahoo DOT com) over the weekend so we can find out what's going on.

Here's another FAQ:

"What if I don't have a blog? If I don't know who is sending a package to me, where do I put my questionnaire answers?"

If you don't have your own blog, you're more than welcome to post your questionnaire answers here, if you're a member of this blog. We can send you an invitation to the blog if you'd like. Otherwise, the person sending to you will probably request that you email the questionnaire answers to them.

Matches have been sent out! ...and a FAQ

2006-09-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that all the matches have been sent out. Let us know if you haven't received your match and we'll resend the information.

Also, I wanted to answer a common question we've received recently.

"Is this a secret swap?"

As much as possible, you ought to keep your identity hidden until the package is sent out. There are various free email hosts where you can set up an anonymous email address for the swap, if you'd like. You may include a greeting card or note, revealing your identity, enclosed in the package you send. If you accidently reveal yourself before then, that's okay too. You could get to know your pal better through open correspondence as well.

Have fun everyone!

Rules Redux and Questionnaire

2006-09-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

We'll be working hard on making the matches this weekend, and sending them out to you by Monday evening at the latest. I think we forgot to mention that this will be a round-robin type swap...meaning, that person A will send a package to person B and person B will send a package to person C, then person C will send a package to person A. In other words, the person to whom you are sending a package will not necessarily be the person you will be receiving from. Once again, thanks to everyone for signing up.

In the meantime, please review the swap rules.

Please post your answers to the following questionnaire on your blog, or send them to your pal via email by September 8th.

1) How long have you been spinning?

2) Are you a beginner, novice, or experienced spinner?

3) Do you spin on a drop spindle or wheel, or both?

4) What types and weights of drop spindles (or what type of spinning wheel(s) ) do you currently own?

5) What type of fibers have you spun with before?

6) What fibers do you prefer to spin with?

7) What fibers do you dislike?

8) Do you prefer natural colored fibers, or handpainted/dyed fiber?

9) Would you prefer all one type of roving or smaller amounts of different types to sample?

10) What are you favorite colors?

11) What colors do you dislike?

12) What would you like to do with your handspun yarn, or what do you plan to do with it? (pattern clarification here)

13) What spinning projects are you currently working on?

14) Do you have a wishlist?

15) What are your other favorite hobbies?

16) Do you have any allergies (pet, smoke, food, fiber,etc...)?

17) What is your preferred shipping method (USPS, UPS, FedEx)?

Hi from NJ

2006-09-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

My name is Laura, and I'm a fiberholic. It all started with a black lace mohair sweater 17 years ago, and I started really knitting heavily about 8 years ago. At first it was just socially -- I'd knit a little when I got home from work, maybe some on the weekends. Then I started knitting on the way to and from work. Next thing you know, I'm weaving. It seemed like I could control it at the time. Then a friend introduced me to the drop spindle. I've been hooked on spinning since. I've even made a few spindles on my own in the basement. My husband got me a Babe spinning wheel two years ago (he's an enabler), and for a while I spun all the time. Then I got pregnant and had to quit because everything made me nauseous. But now that the baby's born I've taken up the habit again and I'm happy to be off the wagon. I'm looking forward to being someone's "dealer" -- I love both giving and receiving happy surprises.

Joining in...

2006-09-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Guess it's my turn to introduce myself. My fiber "journey" has been long and drawn-out. It began with wanting to learn to knit. Really, passionately wanting to learn to knit. I bought a book. I tried to figure it out. I tried to find someone to teach me. No luck. I was awkward, all thumbs and would give up in frustration. Years passed. I would try every once in awhile with the same results. More years passed. Then we moved and landed across the street from a weaver. A really good weaver. She taught me to weave, which I really enjoy, but it still wasn't knitting. However, she did introduce me to yarn shops!

So I signed up for knitting lessons and lo and behold, learned to knit! I found out that there is a whole different way to knit (picking) which turned out to be much easier for me to figure out! Finally, I learned to knit. There I blissfully stayed for three years, thinking to myself "why would anyone want to learn to spin?" Seemed like a waste of time to me, after all, you could be KNITTING.

Then, this spring, I went to Shepherd's Harvest, a fiber festival held every Mother's Day (what a great way to spend Mother's Day!!) and much to my surprise came away with an intense desire to learn to spin. So I found someone to teach me and have been spinning for a few months now. Last Saturday I finally ordered my own wheel and it arrived yesterday! I bought a Kromski Minstrel and love it. I was up 'til 1:30 last night putting the first stain coat on it and I love it even more. Hopefully by Monday I'll be able to spin something on it.

These days I knit, weave, spin, and dye and love every minute of it. This is my first swap and I'm really looking forward to it. Thanks to Christina and CJ for organizing it!

Sign-ups closed!

2006-09-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

Sign-up for this swap is now officially closed.

Excited too...

2006-09-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

My name is Lisa but you'll usually find me online under the name stitch-dom (as in kingdom, not "stitch-dominant" which didn't occur to me until later ;-) ). I have been spinning since April when I decided that not being able to get the colours I wanted comercially that it would be better to dye my own. I tried dying some commercial yarn but found the whole experience kind of lacking in satisfaction.

I realized that I'm a process rather than product person...I love getting the raw product and bringing it to the point of being yarn. If I'm really lucky (and on holidays) I actually get a finished knitted product!

I purchased a couple of cheap student spindles and was addicted pretty quickly. That led to the purchase of an Ashford Joy (single treadle...love it). I recently tried out a Majacraft Gem and...well...wow...now I'm doing that pingpong back and forth between really-want-it and don't-need-it and ouch-that's-expensive.

I'm in Ottawa, Ontario and this is my first fiber swap and I'm totally thrilled to have found this before it closed and I look forward to getting to know everyone as it goes along.

Thanks to the organizers for setting this up!

Happy spinning.

Lisa

Excited for my first swap!

2006-09-02T06:06:00.000-07:00

Hello!,

I just thought I would take the time to introduce myself this morning. I'm Tamara from Spincerely Yours (and from Connecticut). I'm a very new blogger but not-so-new -anymore spinner. I've been spinning for about 4 years, I think? I learned to spin from my sister and from Jenny at Spinny Spider Jenny.

Since I started blogging a couple of months ago I have joined a few things like Sexy Knitters Club and Sock Wars, but I'm really excited to be joining something that has under 100 members! Maybe this way, I'll have a chance to remember who everyone is:) I also saw the link to this swap at Theresa's blog.

I learned to spin on a drop spindle, then on a borrowed Louet. I now own a Kromski Minstrel (and I noticed that I'm not the only one?). I really like her - she fits in our home just like a piece of furniture so I can leave her whereever and my husband doesn't complain:) I have one spinning claim to fame and that is that last summer at Adams Farm in Vermont I won the gold ribbon in the Spinning Olympics! That was fun!

For the new spinners out there - if you don't already subscribe to this online magazine, Spindlicity, check it out - the new issue that just came out is just for you!

I'm looking forward to trying to figure out what my swap partner will like and finding the right thing! What can be more fun that shopping for fiber?

Have a great weekend!

Hello from the UK

2006-09-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

Hi I am Silvia. Although I already made one post I thought I better introduce myself propperly.
So far I seem to be the only UK member here. My Blog can me found here. I am a total novice at spinning, both on the spindle and the Wheel. I just got my wheel on wednesday but I am loving it. But I think I always will be a dropspindler at heart. I have not managed to spin any real thin Yarn as yet but do produce a consistent thickness . I love spinning with Wenslaydale it is so lush.
I am looking forward to seeing what others spin and finding out what Fleece they like or dislike.

Under the wire...

2006-09-01T17:34:00.000-07:00

Whew, I just barely made it in the door, thanks to a post at Theresa's blog!
I live in Alaska, and I started spinning on a handspindle during the past spring ("breakup," we call it here - or Mud Season.) I carried the dang thing around so much, my husband decided I needed a wheel (I hadn't dared think that far) and he started bringing home information printed off the internet about various brands and styles of wheels! (Seems I have a wanna-be fiber-fiend on my hands...)
Anyway, "Tenar" arrived safely in mid-June, and there's been no looking back since. She is a sturdy little Kromski Minstrel, double treadled and set up for double-drive, and I couldn't ask for a better wheel (but I'm fairly certain I'll add a second one in a few years.)
So I'm still a wet-behind-the-ears spinner, almost entirely self-taught (I've seen two people spinning, and got to try a Babe wheel once.) Because I have spun thin, even yarn from the start, I've been called a "freak-of-nature spinner," and it's also been suggested I was a masterful spinner in a past lifetime...! Well, I don't know about all that, but I do find spinning to be a balm, and practicing is always a pleasure. I'm looking forward to this swap because I'm interested in what other spinners are doing, and what fibers they like best.

Hello from the Chicago 'Burbs

2006-09-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

I guess Theresa is in Chicago proper. I live out in the suburbs, which puts me a lot closer drive to The Fold http://www.thefoldatmc.net/ a pretty cool store. A friend of mine who blogs as rocketsc1ent1st is responsible for my latest hobby. In July she came up from Texas to visit, only partially because she adopted a Cardigan Welsh Corgi from me.... the other reason was to go yarn and fiber shopping at The Fold!

I bought a Knundert spindle there, and have been addicted ever since. To dispose of the yarn I've made I have started loom knitting, because I intensely dislike knitting needles. I'm left-handed, and trying to figure out right-handed "how to knit" directions never worked, and it was just too frustrating. I tolerate crochet but never got into it in a large way either. The loom knitting is perfect for me. 4oz of my handspun fiber loom knits into the perfect length of scarf!

I'm also a hybrid of chemical and mechanical engineer and I've been fiddling with a couple of yarn winding inventions also. My boyfriend has the patience of a saint whenI have washers, nuts and bolts strewn about the family room floor. I may make my own spinning wheel in a completely unorthodox fashion, that's even wierder than the Babe's, but until I get it debugged I'm quite happy spindling.

Here are the sucessful projects I've done so far.... (I haven't taken pictures of the unsucessful ones!)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bannaoj/sets/72157594242083846/

A.J. a.k.a BannaOj a.k.a. Anna Jo

Saying Hello from Brooklyn, NY!

2006-09-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

My name is Tawana. I'm checking in from Brooklyn , NY. My blog is Rooted in Knit-realit y
I have been knitting now for almost 3 years (It will be 3 in January) and spinning for maybe 4 or 5 months? I am not sure, it seems like forever. I just bought my Lendrum DT wheel last week and I am loving it. I just finished spinning up 4 oz of Wool roving bought from Knitterly things in the color of Sweet and Low. I am looking forward to this swap and will enjoy shopping for my pal.

Greetings from Chicago!

2006-09-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Theresa from Chicago checking in! Some of you might also know me as the Keyboard Biologist -- that's the blog I've been maintaining for the past 4 years to describe my crafty (mostly knitting) adventures.

I've been knitting since 1995, spinning is a more recent, but not less consuming, endeavor that I started in May of 2005. That start involved two Bosworth drop spindles and a lot of encouragement from some local and not-so-local blogging friends. I've added a few more spindles to my collection since then (Kundert, Golding and Charis) so if anybody wants to know more about the ones I have, I'm happy to talk more about them.

However, since buying my Lendrum DT in January, I have to admit, I haven't used my spindles very much at all. I absolutely love my wheel. At the heart of it all, I'm a product more than a process spinner or knitter. While I enjoy the process of knitting and spinning, what I enjoy most of all is having a finished yarn or knitting project in my hands. With the wheel, and my newly acquired WooLee Winder, I can actually contemplate spinning up enough yarn for a sweater. The project I am working on now is turning 2 lbs of fluffy moorit CVM roving into a 3 ply yarn that I can use to make a cardigan for winter.

Thanks to CJ and Christina for hosting the swap. I'm looking forward to picking out something fun for my swap partner!

Hey From Tucson!

2006-08-31T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

I thought I would introduce myself too. I am Amy and I live in Tucson AZ. My blog is here. I am a crochet designer and a virgin spinner. I am saving all my pennies for a Majacraft Gem. I adore looking at the yummy roving online and imagining what it would look like when it was spun. Since I am a mother of two young children, I wanted to learn to spin to have something special just for me. I learned how to knit about a week ago because I wanted to use my handspun yarn for some of the beautiful patterns I have seen online. I am looking forward to this swap!

hello all

2006-08-31T21:41:00.000-07:00

hi folks. i'm meera and my blog is here. i've been spinning for 2 years and my first wheel was a Louet s10 (still my sentimental favorite). i also have a Louet s75 special edition, and an Ashford Joy for all the travelling i haven't done yet (just an excuse to get another wheel). i am probably the only person in the known spinning world who does not like spinning on a Lendrum.

i've been interested in spinning for years because i have a keeshond dog and thought (and read) that spinning her fur would be a good thing to do, to make warm mittens, scarves and hats. finally 2 years ago, i learned to drop spindle at Rhinebeck and the wheel collecting began. as for the dog yarn, alas, i am too late as she is in her last days and now is not the time for me to brush her vigorously to get all that luscious kee-fur.

i'm so happy to have found this swap as i have an abundance of roving, and i dye my own, so it's always a pleasure to share. if you're my swap pal and have color preferences please let me know.

Introducing...

2006-08-31T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Just thought I'd introduce myself. I'm Lori. I live in ND, spin when I can and knit and read everyday. Right now I'm spinning up some fawn alpaca into what I hope will be a two-ply laceweight yarn. I'm thinking of making the swallowtail shawl in IK with it, maybe, we'll see. At any rate, I've had my wheel for a year now and have been spinning for 2. I have almost as much fiber stash as I have yarn stash, which is quite a lot. Looking forward to this exchange. Spin on!

Thought I would introduce myself...

2006-08-31T14:08:00.000-07:00

My name is Cayli and I am an avid spinner. I started out 2 years ago on a spindle and jumped quickly into a wheel. In fact I now have 2 wheels an Ashford Joy and a Majacraft Rose. This swap sounded like so much fun being devoted to spinning. I have always used my spinning for other swaps but getting new stuff to spin is the best. You can check out my blog here.

My Wheels

2006-08-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

AmysBabies asked me about my wheels and I figured other people may want to hear about them too. I love both my wheels for very different reasons.

The Minstrel was my first wheel and lives in my Living room. It spins great but isn't very portable and is also not very versatile. But it is Gorgeous! Mine is stained mahogany and looks like an antique. I couldn't imagine many other wheels looking like they belonged in my living room

The Gem comes with me everywhere, It can even go in my carry on when I travel. It is also very versatile and can use almost all of the many flyers, whorls, and other attachments that Majacraft makes. It's not an ugly wheel by any means but it is definitely a modern wheel.

If I was forced to pick between them I'd probably pick the Gem but I'd fight tooth and nail before giving up either of them.

Hi everyone!

2006-08-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd join in the introductions here. I've been spinning for about a year and I absolutely love it. When I first got a spindle I knew it would be a quick gateway to a wheel. I now have 2 wheels, Kromski Minstrel and a Majacraft Gem II.

This swap sounds like it will be a lot of fun. I've participated in some knitting swaps but this will be my first spinning one.

Can't wait to go shopping!

2006-08-31T03:13:00.000-07:00

I can't wait till this exchange starts. I am co-running the International Scarf Exchange, and that starts at the same time. I love exchanges and am addicted tothem - can you tell? :)

I haven't been spinning for a while, and I am hoping that this exchange is what it takes to inspire me to pull out my wheel again. I love trying out new fibresand I am fibre-crazy. I can't wait to start shopping for my swap partner too!

Sign-Up Deadline Extended

2006-08-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

Wow! Christina and I are overwhelmed and overjoyed by the number of participants we have for our humble little swap.

By special request, the deadline to sign-up has been extended to Friday, September 1st, midnight PST. Matches will still be made over the weekend and should be out by the end of Monday (September 4th) at the latest.

Thanks everyone. =)

Hey!

2006-08-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be part of this swap. Can't wait.
I really just wanted to say hi to everyone!

Hello from Canada

2006-08-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody! This morning is really chilly, and I think I might curl up with a coffee and spin some. What is on all of your wheels/spindles at the moment? Right now I'm spinning up a 6 pound bag of chocolate romney fleece for a friends sweater I'm designing. Are there any other Canucks out there?

Looking forward to this one

2006-08-27T22:50:00.000-07:00

My last swap experience in KSKS was fantastic and I am looking for an opportunity to pay all that great Karma forward for my next partner. Here's a way I just discovered to generate lots of google hits.

My blog has had over 200 hits in the last day or so because I mentioned Patons SWS. Maybe we could have a spinning discussion about the Soy part of Patons SWS? Maybe we could try to figure out just what kind of wool they used in Patons SWS? Maybe we could just type Patons SWS over and over again?

Question about the Patterns

2006-08-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Silvia here (www.fromthesheepsback.com) although I am posting from my blogger account.
I have a question re the pattern. Are we to write one? Or can we send one we may have found on the net or in a Magazine? I have only just mastered the spinning and think I may have a problem writing a pattern!!!!!!!!!!

Clarifications

2006-08-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

This is just to clarify some of the questions we've received through email and figured I'd answer them here too, since some of you may also have the same questions.

The intent of the swap is to give your partner the chance to experience something new or different, whether that be a new fiber type, a new spinning technique, or a color outside of what they may normally choose for themselves. If your partner has a preferred fiber, that's perfectly acceptable to send! But by all means, if you'd like to spin up a small amount (outside the 4 oz /2 oz exchange requirement) for your partner to see a mini sample skein to match the wpi of what's in the pattern, that'd be awesome. I could see how that would be useful in developing, or sending an appropriate pattern to your partner.

The pattern need not be a knitting pattern either. If your partner crochets or weaves, patterns for handspun items created in other ways are acceptable as well. There's no firm rule that you must spin and create what your partner sends, but wouldn't it be a fun challenge to do so? (I'm channeling Scout's and Beverly's KSKS swap spirit here) ;)

For those of you that have signed up to be invited to the blog, feel free to post about items related to the swap. For example, you may post about your package ideas, spinning advice/techniques, recommended online/offline spinning vendors, sources for patterns, questions to the hostesses/participants... I think you get the idea. If you'd like to be invited to the blog, just drop us a line and we'll get an invitation to you.

Oh, another quick note. We have a small number of Virgin Spindlers, so go out there Rebels and ~~infect~~ invite a virgin to the swap to make it fun for them too!

Christina and I are so excited to have everyone on-board to share the spinning love!

Contest: Button, button, whose got the button?

2006-08-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

They're not as great as I'd like, but they're a start. Please save them to your own server.

We're going to run a contest for those of you creative enough to make some buttons for us. Just submit them to spinroveswap AT yahoo DOT com before August 30th. We'll enter your name into a drawing for a spindle bag in the colors of your choosing. Click here for some of my previous sewing handiwork. Also, we've noticed we've had a little trouble recruiting participants. Go out there and spread the word ladies!

Welcome to the Spinning Roving Swap!

2006-08-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

Ever been curious about what's so fascinating about spinning? Been spinning for a while and own several wheels? Have you never tried a drop spindle in your life, but been wanting to?

Christina and I were bitten by the spinning bug and have not been able to put our spindles down since Lambtown. We came up with the idea of a roving swap to share the ~~obsession~~ joy.

Here's the deal:

Sign-ups will start on Wednesday August 16th and end on Wednesday August 30th (midnight PST), with matches to be sent out around September 3rd. The final date for mailing out your package will be October 27th.

The Rules are simple:

1) Have fun! We just want others to experience the joy we've felt in spinning for the first time.

2) There will be two groups you can sign up for. Please choose one:

Rebel Rovers
The package shall contain a minimum of:
-4 oz of roving
-a pattern appropriate for use with handspun yarn

Virgin Spindlers
The package shall contain a minimum of:
-2 oz of roving
-One moderately priced spindle (valued at a minimum of $25 US)
-a pattern appropriate for use with handspun yarn

For both groups:
3) Each participant shall contact their partner a minimum of three times.

-The first time is when you first get your partner.
-The second time is when you've finished putting the package together.
-The third time is when you've sent the package to your partner.

4) We'll put a questionnaire up shortly after sign-ups are over. Please post your answers to the questionnaire on your blog or send them to your pal.

That's it.

We highly encourage you to find out more about your partner, other than what they post on their questionnaire. You may also want to spoil your partner above and beyond the minimum, but we won't make it a rule. In your package, please include a note or card to reveal your identity so your pal can properly thank you.

Please, do not sign up if you think you cannot meet these rules and dates. If life happens (which it does), please email us right away so we can make arrangements so no one gets left out of the fun.

Interested in joining?

Email us at spinroveswap AT yahoo DOT com with the following information:

What is your name and mailing/postal address?

What is the url for your blog (if you have one)?

Would you like to receive an invitation to this blog?

What is your email address?

Are you a Rebel Rover or a Virgin Spindler?

Are you a beginning, intermediate, or experienced spinner?

Are you willing to swap with an international partner?

Are you willing to be an angel, in case someone's partner cannot follow through?