The Sheepspot Podcast

In this episode, Sasha breaks down Breed School; what it is, where it came from, and details about the newest bring-your-own-fiber version of Breed School.  Mentioned in this episode: Breed Study 101  Why We (Really) Need Rare Sheep Breeds: The Case of American Jacobs Live Lesson June 14th 2pm EST  or Live Lesson June 15th 4pm EST  To join the live lesson, you do have to join Breed Study 101.  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners.   Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.     

In this episode, Sasha talks about breeds of sheep that produce wonderfully useful and complex fleeces: the multi-coated breeds. Mentioned in the episode: Episode 18, on washing fleece Breed School You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode of the podcast, Sasha talks about the ‘Down’ breeds: the Southdown, the Suffolk, the Dorset Down, the Hampshire, the Oxford and the Shropshire. Mentioned in this episode: In Sheep's Clothing: A Handspinner's Guide to Wool by Nola Fournier The Spinner's Book of Fleece by Beth Smith Breed School  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.  

In this episode, Sasha talks about the longwools - breeds to look for, prep suggestions, and tips and tricks for spinning these fibers. Mentioned in this episode: Breed School  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode of the podcast, Sasha talks about one of her favorite wools, Rambouillet. Mentioned in this episode: Breed School  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this encore episode Sasha talks about different types of wool and their uses.   Mentioned in this episode: The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook, by Deborah Robson and Carol Ekarius The Spinner's Book of Fleece, by Beth Smith Wool types cheat sheet - available inside The Flock Breed School  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.  

In this episode, Sasha offers 5 tips for plying and finishing a big spin. Mentioned in this episode: The Sheepspot Podcast: Episode 146: Why I Never End Up with Leftover Singles When I Ply Episode 105: How to be sure your yarn has even ply twist throughout the skein You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode Sasha dives into the essential strategies for staying motivated and consistent during your big spinning projects. Based on her own experiences, she knows how easy it is to lose focus when tackling something ambitious, so she shares her best tips to keep you spinning happily and efficiently. Mentioned in this episode: Carson Demer - Knitting Comfortably: The Ergonomics of Hand Knitting. The Sheepspot Podcast: Episode 12: Be Kind, Rewind Episode 36: Bobbin Winder Review Instagram @sheepspot @sashatorrespainting You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode Sasha dives into what it takes to set herself up for a successful spin of 16 ounces or more. Sampling is a crucial part of the process; by letting herself start with experimentation and play, she figures out how to achieve both a fun spin and one that results in a yarn that she loves.  Mentioned in this episode:  The Sheepspot Podcast:  Episode 15: All About Sampling Episode 22: Get to know your default yarn Episode 59: Sampling for a Project Episode 95: 3 Tips for Knitting with Handspun Podcast Freebie inside The Flock:  Spinning Records You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

This episode is the first in our series focusing on the "Using Your Handspun" pillar of skillful spinning. In this episode Sasha discusses two approaches on planning a big spin and she addresses the advantages and disadvantages to both. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha dives into the frustrating experience of leftover singles after plying, a common headache for spinners. She shares three effective strategies to ensure you never face this dilemma again. First, she explains her favorite method—working from multiple storage bobbins—which helps to minimize leftovers. She also introduces the concept of a plying bracelet, a handy technique that lets you easily ply your leftover yarn into a two-ply. Finally, for those creating three-ply yarns, she discusses chain plying as a way to use leftover singles. These three techniques will help you make the most of your singles and eliminate waste when plying. Mentioned in this episode: The Sheepspot Podcast Episode 11: Plying for consistency Episode 12: Be Kind, Rewind Episode 104: How Much Ply Twist? The Plyback of the Ply and the Question of Balance Episode 105: How to be sure your yarn has even ply twist throughout the skein Spin School - the online course for new and self-taught spinners   You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.     

In this episode, Sasha dives into the frustrating experience of leftover singles after plying, a common headache for spinners. She shares three effective strategies to ensure you never face this dilemma again. First, she explains her favorite method—working from multiple storage bobbins—which helps to minimize leftovers. She also introduces the concept of a plying bracelet, a handy technique that lets you easily ply your leftover yarn into a two-ply. Finally, for those creating three-ply yarns, she discusses chain plying as a way to use leftover singles. These three techniques will help you make the most of your singles and eliminate waste when plying. Mentioned in this episode: Available in The Flock Spinning Record Cards Bonus Lesson: How to Make a Plying Bracelet The Sheepspot Podcast - Episode 12: Be Kind, Rewind You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode Sasha explores cabled yarns, which require multiple plying steps but which have a distinct look and texture and are fantastically durable. While they don't significantly change the look of stockinette or garter stitch, cabled yarns really shine in more intricate patterns like seed stitch. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode of The Sheepspot Podcast, Sasha dives into the various yarn structures, focusing specifically on singles, two-ply, and three-ply yarns, and discusses when and why to choose each type. She talks about the unique characteristics and advantages of each structure, such as the smoothness of singles, the texture and balance of two-ply yarns, and the consistency and durability of three-ply yarns. She also shares insights into how these choices impact knitting projects, highlighting the importance of selecting the right yarn structure for lace, cables, and other patterns. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode Sasha takes what she has learned from abstract painting classes and suggests how we might use those lessons in our spinning practice. Mentioned in this episode: The Sheepspot Podcast: Episode 101 - Combination Drafting vs. Combination Spinning   You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha searches for her missing mojo and talks about the steps she's taking to get it back. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha shares her system for keeping track of her ever-growing spindle collection. Mentioned in this episode: Podcast Freebie: Click here to download You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha shares her favorite spindle for beginners. Mentioned in this episode: Greensleeves Spindles: Bare Bones Spindles You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha shares three of her favorite spinning resources. Mentioned in this episode: Maggie Casey: Getting Started on a Drop Spindle Abby Franquemont: Respect the Spindle Link to book Link to video You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.   

In this episode from 2012, Sasha and Jillian Moreno report from their shared hotel room at the Madrona Winter Fiber Arts Festival (now the Red Alder Fiber Arts Retreat). Hilarity ensues.  Apologies for the intermittent audio issues! You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode from 2011, Sasha interviews colorist extraordinaire Deb Menz. Deb is the author of Color in Spinning, which is sadly out of print. It's an amazing book, and if you ever find a used copy of it, snatch it up.  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode from 2011, Sasha tells you all about a field trip to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival.  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.    

In this episode from 2010, Sasha interviews Deb Robson about the process of creating her magnum opus, The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook. Mentioned in this episode: Deb Robson; The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode from 2010, Sasha talks about the insane buying spree that was her one and only trip to Rhinebeck. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.    Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention links that are no longer available.

In this episode, from 2010, Sasha interviews Beth Smith about buying fleeces.  Mentioned in this episode:  Beth Smith: The Spinner's Book of Fleece You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.        Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention classes or offers that are no longer available.

In this episode, Sasha talks about the importance of value as it relates to color. Mentioned in this episode:  Deb Menz: Color Works You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha explores the difference between "blue" and "blue-green" and the relationship between different hues.  You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Click here to see the images of the hues. 

In this episode, Sasha explains the "continuum of blendiness," a rubric for understanding different ways to control optical mixing. Mentioned in the episode: Episode 101: Combination Drafting vs. Combination Spinning Debbie Held: Best Practices in Fractal Spinning Podcast Freebie: Click here to download You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.   

In this episode, Sasha explains optical mixing. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha talks about her color journey and how she went from being massively color challenged to becoming a dyer. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha reviews her brand new fiber-preparation tool, the Lock Pop from Clemes and Clemes. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha reviews the Louet two-pitch mini-combs. Spoiler alert: she loves them! Mentioned in this episode: The Fibre Garden The Woolery You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha talks about what you should consider when you are choosing hand carders. Mentioned in this episode: Etsy Shop: Fellview Fibres Etsy Shop: Lea Wild Creative Video: Hand Carding with Beth Smith You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha discusses a variety of ways to prepare fiber for worsted spinning. Mentioned in this episode: Sources for combing tools: woolcombs.com offers English, Russian paddle, and Viking combs valkyrietools.com offers a variety of viking-style comps. Caveat emptor: those teeth are sharp. Video Demos Combing Wool the Right Way tutorial with Susan McFarland Excellent short introduction to combing with mini-combs Combing Wool Good discussion of a variety of types of combs and demos of each Woolcombing (parts 1-4) Very detailed demonstration of using four-pitch English combs Demonstration of flick carding a soft Shetland fleece Other Info Kate Larson, "Flicking and Carding Painted Locks" This article offers insight into why you might choose a lock-by-lock prep method and there's a good illustration of using one hand carder to prep locks You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha indulges in a little post-retreat reflection on how spinning enables human connection. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.     

In this episode, Sasha talks about some of the downsides of going it alone when learning to spin. You can find the script for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha talks about the three things she wishes she had known at the start of her spinning journey.  You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.     

In this episode, Sasha encourages knitters, crocheters, and weavers to give spinning a try, and discusses some of the ways learning to spin will enhance their life with yarn. You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.   

Spinning Fundamentals Encore Episode  In this episode, Sasha talks about what she calls The Pillars of Skillful Spinning™, and how they can help you think about the field of spinning knowledge in a more holistic way. You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention classes or offers that are no longer available.

Spinning Fundamentals Encore Episode  This week’s episode of The Sheepspot Podcast, on The Spinner’s Journey, will help bring you clarity on where you are in your spinner’s journey, and what you might want to work on next to improve your spinning and make more yarns you love. Mentioned in this episode: Episodes 56 and 57, about Sasha’s spinning story. You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention classes or offers that are no longer available.

Spinning Fundamentals Encore Episode  In this episode, Sasha talks about five beginner-friendly wools that new spinners can use to build their spinning skills. Mentioned in this episode: The Sheepspot Podcast, Episodes 56 and 57 (My Spinning Story) The Sheepspot Podcast, Episode 44 (Meet the Down Breeds) You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention classes or offers that are no longer available.

Spinning Fundamentals Encore Episode  In this episode, Sasha talks about what you can do with your wheel, your lazy Kate, and your singles to ply your yarns for consistency. Mentioned in this episode: Sarah Anderson's DIY Lazy Kate Video - no longer available online The Sheepspot Podcast Episode 10 You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear Sasha mention classes or offers that are no longer available

Spinning Fundamentals Encore Episode  In this episode of the podcast, Sasha walks through the process of spinning even singles, from sampling to maintaining an even twist. Mentioned in this episode:  Consistent Singles Cheat Sheet  You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.  Since these episodes are encores, you may occasionally hear me mention classes or offers that are no longer available.

In this episode, Sasha talks about the strategies she's developed when spinning commercial fiber blends with mixed staple lengths. Mentioned in this episode:  Episode 15: All About Sampling Episode 66: Twist is a Choice You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha offers four crucial tips for creating wool/silk blends with a drum carder. You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha shares an easy fiber blending project; her chemo hat recipe.  Mentioned in this episode:  Episode 100: The Woolen Drafts  You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Also in The Flock, you'll find the freebie for this episode.    And if you do try this, please share pictures in The Flock or on Instagram with the hashtags  #sheepspotpodcast and #chemohatrecipe!   Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha offers some tips and resources on creating unique fiber blends. Mentioned in this episode:  Sarah Anderson's Spinning Exotic Fiber Blends The Fiber Imp: Sheepless Fiber Sampler Hand Cards:  Schacht link Clemes & Clemes link You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Also in The Flock, you can download the freebie mentioned in this episode by clicking here.    Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.

In this episode, Sasha talks about some of the resources linking handwork to happiness and healthy brains. She is joined by two members of The Guild by Sheepspot - Suzanne R. and Susan C. Mentioned in this episode:  Episode 102: Spinning and Mental Health You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha talks about the inspiring effects of community. Mentioned in this episode:  Scenius: why creatives are stronger together Wired.com, Scenius, or Communal Genius You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists. 

In this episode, Sasha talks about what to look for in a healthy spinning community. You can find the transcript for this episode HERE. You can comment on and discuss this episode here in The Flock, Sheepspot’s free online community for inquisitive spinners. Here's the link to the Podcast search page and playlists.