Daedalus Fly-In Retreat Teacher Spotlight - James Perry (Longdrawjames)
Updated: Jul 4
James Perry (Longdrawjames) is a 29 year old fiber artist who has been working with wool for almost 2/3 of his life, having started at the tender age of 10. He primarily spins, but is also an avid knitter, weaver, dyer and wooturner. As a dyer he runs “Ashen Wensleydale” where he sells his hand dyed fiber as well as support spindles he turns.
He is a PhD educated chemist, with specific research interests in sustainable textile production, specifically within the areas of dyes and detergents.
His background majorly influences his approach to spinning, which is very much one of science, logic and common sense. He is a stickler for the detail and focuses on intentional fibre and spinning choices to get the yarn that he wants for his projects. He is most well known for his expertise in woollen and fine spinning although he is also particularly fond of working with gradients, color and spinning for his own handknit sweaters.
His teaching style is focused on a student led approach. He feels that his job is to provide a toolbox of techniques and ideas for his students which they can then trial and decide which works best for them and what they want to make.
Classes
Spinning Woolen Yarns
3 hours $25 materials fee
Have you ever lusted after lofty, woollen yarns but were always been too scared to spin them? Got that short-stapled fibre that gives you nightmares? Well, this is the class for you! We will discuss handcarding, focusing on producing rolags for your spinning and will then discuss how best to spin them to give you a true woollen yarn. We will then move into the difference between English and American longdraw (point of contact). Through all of this, we will also delve into plying and finishing of your yarns, so that you can make the woollen yarns of your dreams! Level of Spinning: Any, so long as you can spin a length of continuous yarn Students should bring: A wheel, spare bobbins, lazy kate, hand carders, any fibres they want to spin woollen or to discuss.
Spinning Lace Yarns
3 hours $30 materials fee
Spinning fine lace is a pinnacle of achievement for most spinners. It’s something many aspire to and is included in many cultural traditions around the world. If you want to spin lace, this class is for you. We will start looking at what makes a fine yarn different to standard yarns. We will then look at the all-important wheel adjustment and modifications you might want to try to make fine yarns easier, as well as good fiber prep and appropriate spinning styles. We will then spin a few indicative fibres, discussing ways to spin these successfully into lace yarns. Also covered will be handling of fine singles and plying them successfully! Level of Spinning: Any, so long as you can spin a length of continuous yarn. Students should bring: A wheel, spare bobbins, lazy kate, pool noodle/pipe lagging
Find James at:
Etsy Shop If you'd like to learn more about the Daedalus Fly-In Retreat for 2023 check out the official website. Sign ups are open!
https://www.daedalusflyin.com/
- Evanita