Participants will discuss how these fibres were prepared and the tools used to spin them. Samples of all these fibres in addition to a few more will be there to look at closely and handle to get an appreciation of the skills and mastery in spinning them into magnificent robes and blankets. A slideshow covering some of the history of Coast Salish spinning and its evolution will highlight some of the spinning characteristics to look for in the yarns in the blankets and robes on display.

Participants will learn to spin starting with the age-old method of thigh spinning and then use hand spindles and also the traditional large spindles often with ornately carved whorls. You will spin with sheep wool, feathers, stinging nettle and some dog wool. Limited to 12 participants only.

At the end of the workshop, you will have more understanding of Coast Salish textiles and especially the yarns used to make them. You will take home some samples yarns you have made and a spindle to keep on learning.