Title: The Spinner’s Book of Fleece: A Breed-by-Breed Guide to Choosing and Spinning the Perfect Fibre for Every Purpose
Author: Beth Smith
Pages / Format: ~256 pages, full colour photograph,y Hachette Book Group+1Description:
Unlock the secrets behind raw fleece and transform it into the yarn you’ve always envisioned. In The Spinner’s Book of Fleece, Beth Smith provides an expert, accessible journey through fleece selection, preparation, and spinning—organised by sheep breed and fleece type.
From the opening chapter on understanding fleece structure and grease content, to detailed breed profiles, Smith leads the reader confidently through each step:
How to examine and purchase fleece, including key considerations and red flags
Methods for washing, scouring, and preparing fleeces (skirting, sorting, storage)
Techniques for processing — flicking, combing, carding — and when to use each
The art and science of spinning: twist, drafting, plying, and how your spin decisions influence the resulting yarn
Profiles of 21 sheep breeds, grouped by fleece characteristics (fine, longwool, down, multicoated, etc.), with guidance on how best to handle each breed’s fibre
For several breeds, side-by-side experiments show how different preparation and spinning strategies yield distinct yarns, complete with samples and swatches
Smith’s goal is not just to teach technique, but to foster experimentation and confidence. She encourages spinners to explore different methods, make “mistakes,” and understand how every choice shapes the final yarn.