Beginning Spinning Workshop

The Beginning Spinning Workshop at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum introduces participants to the ancient art of spinning fiber into yarn using traditional techniques and tools.

Saturday, March 14, 2026
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (EDT)

Location:
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
2451 Kissel Hill Road
Lancaster, PA 17601

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Tuition:
$75.00 – $85.00

Classroom:
Museum Store – Second Floor (one flight of stairs)

The Beginning Spinning Workshop is a full-day, hands-on introduction to one of humanity’s oldest textile skills: spinning fiber into yarn. Led by Landis Valley textile demonstrator Tina Mickley, this workshop is designed for beginners who want to understand how raw fiber becomes usable yarn and to gain practical experience using a drop spindle, one of the earliest and most accessible spinning tools.

Spinning has deep historical roots in Pennsylvania German households, where making yarn was an essential domestic skill. In this workshop, participants connect with that tradition while learning techniques that remain relevant for modern fiber artists. The class begins with an overview of fiber types, including wool and other natural fibers commonly used for spinning. Students learn how fiber characteristics—such as staple length, crimp, and cleanliness—affect the spinning process and the finished yarn.

Participants then explore wool preparation, an important step that sets the foundation for successful spinning. Instruction covers basic preparation methods and how prepared fiber influences consistency and strength. Understanding these steps helps students appreciate the full journey from fleece to yarn and prepares them for more advanced spinning techniques in the future.

The heart of the Beginning Spinning Workshop focuses on learning to spin with a drop spindle. Tina guides participants step by step through the mechanics of spindle spinning, including drafting fiber, adding twist, and winding yarn. Students practice at their own pace with individual support, building confidence and coordination. By the end of the day, participants will have spun their own yarn and developed a solid understanding of how to continue practicing at home.

All materials are included in the workshop fee, and each participant receives a drop spindle to take home, making it easy to continue spinning after the class. This makes the workshop ideal for beginners who want to explore spinning without needing to purchase equipment in advance.

The Beginning Spinning Workshop is also a prerequisite for the Introduction to Spinning on a Wheel workshop. Completing this class ensures that students have a strong foundation in fiber handling, drafting, and twist control before advancing to wheel spinning. Participants interested in continuing their spinning journey will find this workshop an essential first step.

Throughout the day, Tina Mickley shares historical context, practical tips, and troubleshooting advice drawn from her experience as a textile demonstrator at Landis Valley. Her approachable teaching style and deep knowledge of traditional textile practices help students feel comfortable and engaged, regardless of prior experience.

The workshop runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and participants should plan for a full day of hands-on learning. The class is held in the second-floor classroom of the Museum Store, accessible by one flight of stairs. Students are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring a lunch, drinks, and snacks.

By the end of the Beginning Spinning Workshop, participants will leave with a greater appreciation for historic textile skills, practical experience spinning yarn, and the confidence to continue learning and practicing on their own.

What’s Included

All fiber and materials
Use of tools during class
Drop spindle to take home

Important Notes

Beginner-level class; no experience required
Prerequisite for Introduction to Spinning on a Wheel
Class held in the Museum Store’s second-floor classroom (one flight of stairs)
All sales are final. No refunds
Proceeds benefit Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum