Counting in spinning is very different than how we count for knitting or crochet. Yes, we still (generally) use base-ten to count, but the whats and whys are very different.
Counting helps me spin a more consistent yarn. While you can make art yarn, I tend to focus on more traditional results and the resources below reflect that. Following is a small collection of links I’ve gathered that show some tips for successful counting. There are definitely many more!
WPI and grist
- Mystery Stash Yarns: Determining Yarn Weights
- Spinning 101 – Measuring Handspun: WPI and Grist
- How fine do I spin my singles to get a target WPI in my plied yarn?
- Yarn weight
- Here’s a quick and easy Spinning WPI Calculator – fill in your desired WPI and the number of plies.
Twist
- Yarn Twist | Relationship Between Yarn Count and Twist | Principles of Twist Measuring Methods
- Too much twist discussion at spinningdaily.com includes link to this helpful PDF on Troubleshooting Twist
- Twist Gauge
Wheel Ratios
- Drive Ratios & Twist Per Inch
- Ratio and Your Wheel
- Can You Explain Spinning Wheel Drive Ratios?
- A Primer on Spinning Wheel Ratios
Plying
- To ply or not to ply
- Plying for Knitting: The Lace and Cable Edition
- Navajo plying
- Plying a Balanced Yarn
Spinning consistent yarns & Control Cards
- Tracking Your Spinning – Spinning Template Cards
- Five Tips For Spinning a Consistent Yarn
- 3 Tools to Make Your Spinning Better (a WPI tool, a spinner’s control card, and a Twist card)
Merino/Tencel singles in progress. Fiber by Happy Fuzzy Yarn in Cobalt.Do you have a favourite tip for counting in spinning? I’d love to learn it, please share in the comments below.
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