Drop Spindle Spinning

Dec 06, 2026
10:00 AM
4:00 PM

Location

Marine Mills Folk School 550 PINE ST, MARINE ON SAINT CROIX, MN 55047

Categories  Fiber Arts

Instructor  Josie Cooke

Historically, plant and animal fibers have been twisted to make cordage and spun fiber for innumerable uses. From carpets to tapestries, socks to ship sails, these materials have been used for artistic and utilitarian pursuits since ancient times. Spinning has endured as a craft that is as essential to daily life as it is relaxing, empowering, and creative. 

 

In this class, you will learn to use a drop spindle to create yarn and experience different ways to ply yarn for strength. We will explore a variety of wool types to become familiar with what is available and what to choose for different projects. Wool preparation will be demonstrated using hand carders, drum carder, and combs. 

 

By the end of class, you will gain an understanding of drafting and spinning wool, what projects you can make using handspun yarn, as well as the spindle and wool to continue the craft.


 

About the Instructor: Josie Cooke

 

Instructor will provide the following: 

All class materials, including drop spindles and wool for students to keep.

 

Students are asked to bring:

Since your class runs over the lunch hour, we recommend you bring lunch or click HERE to learn about local eating opportunities. 

 

Skill Level 

No experience required. 

 

Age Recommendation

Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Students ages 16 and 17 may attend without a parent/guardian in attendance as long as MMFS is provided with written parental permission by email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org.

 

Location Details 

Marine Mills Folk School

550 Pine Street

Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

 

Cost Details

Tuition: $100

Materials Fee: $25

Total Cost: $125

 

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy HERE