This Fiber Life
When I decided I wanted to learn how to spin I knew it was something I really wanted to do. I spent many hours looking at other's handspun and I just had this itchy fingered feeling. It was really something I had always dreamed of doing. I was so excited when I first got my wheel I could hardly wait to start spinning. I was definitely ready to start producing gorgeous yarns... and while I don't think I've attained anywhere near what I want to with spinning, I'm very happy with my progress. Each new yarn off the wheel is a delight- something I would be happy to knit with (even if I haven't knit with very much yet).
I treated myself to joining a few fiber clubs when I first got my wheel- something I would highly recommend because it has pushed me out of my comfort zone both fiber wise and sometimes colour wise. Hello Yarn's club was one that I was very happy to join and while this yarn was one that I loved the colours of, this fiber had pushed me out of my spinning comfort zone. It's 21 micron count merino and was much harder for me to spin and get even. Although, it did make a soft and fluffy yarn that I love. It's really fun to squish that big skein too.
Maldives 21 micron count merino- 5 oz- 2ply- thick and thin.
Lately, I've been thinking about weaving as well, especially after seeing such beautiful images around- here, here and here to name a few. I haven't been thinking about it seriously though. Just as a little thought in the back of my head that I would maybe like to try it some day. Well, I came across a 40" counterbalance, four harness floor loom for sale in my community for practically nothing ($150). It's not a new loom, and it also hasn't been used since 1994, but it all seemed to be intact. Obviously, I bought it. I don't think I'll start learning to weave right away. I'd like to do a little research first- and I still have to put it back together (I had to take it apart to get it down my basement stairs), but hopefully, I am going to learn. 
Very cool! I'm just getting started spinning, and in the back of my mind, I'm curious abut crochet.
Posted by:carla | December 20, 2007 at 22:45
Congrats! That's quite a steal.
Posted by:Kelley | December 21, 2007 at 03:59
Your spinning looks wonderful - gorgeous colors and textures in that skein! I admire handspun yarns so much - maybe someday I'll try my hand at spinning too! Congrats on a bargain, finding the loom at such a fantastic price. Sounds like the timing couldn't have been much better!
Posted by:Bernadette | December 22, 2007 at 04:38
Thanks for stopping by my blog! I do recommend Magnificent Mittens -- if only for the best way ever to start at the tip. I may try this on my next sock!
Posted by:Kelley | December 22, 2007 at 19:36
How exciting to get a loom! Learning to spin and learning to weave are future goals of mine, so I share your enthusiasm. Congrats!
Posted by:Laura | December 23, 2007 at 15:24
How wonderful! I am doing a beginning weaving workshop in January, and I can hardly wait to learn. Maybe we can share tips! Lucky find!
Best wishes~
Posted by:Lolly | December 24, 2007 at 04:36
Oooh I can't wait to see what you weave up! =)
Posted by:keri | January 16, 2008 at 13:19
That's a good deal you got for your weaving.
And your hand spun fiber is gorgeous as always. I can't wait to start spinning again.
Ah Happy New Year 2008.
Posted by:Rina | January 17, 2008 at 02:34
hi ami -- i have been enjoying all of your spinning on ravelry. i've nominated you for a "you make my day" award. cheesy button, genuine sentiment. your handspun makes me want to learn how to spin!
Posted by:barefoot rooster | January 30, 2008 at 16:54
Your handspun yarn is absolutely luscious! Makes me want to go back to spinning except I gave all my equipment away...
Posted by:Paula | January 31, 2008 at 16:09
Those colors are just gorgeous!
Posted by:Emily | February 13, 2008 at 00:02