Essential reading for handspinners, wool growers, and other fiber craft enthusiasts, this indispensable reference book provides a comprehensive review of the characteristics of wool from 100 breeds of sheep. Actual fleece locks are shown in full-size photographs, and knitting, crochet, weaving, and other techniques illustrate the importance of matching wool type to end use. Everything from baby-soft Merino to silky Lincoln and sturdy Karakul—the full range of nature’s miracle fiber—is represented here, with special attention given to fleece characteristics and to methods of preparation and spinning. You’ll find expert advice on: selecting top-quality fleeces; cleaning wool efficiently and thoroughly; teasing, flicking, combing, carding, and other preparation methods; and spinning and plying a variety of yarn styles.

About the authors: Nola Fournier is a master spinner in New Zealand, a land where sheep and wool are preeminent. Her daughter, Jane Fournier, now makes the United States her home. She holds the Certificate of Excellence in Handspinning. Nola and Jane are partners in the New Zealand Journey, a 17-day tour of The Woolcrafts Festival, working sheep stations, and more wool than you dreamed possible on the spectacular North and South islands. For more information about the journey, send an e-mail to:nzjourney@attbi.com

Paperbound, 7 1/2 x 10 1/4, 224 pages, black and white photographs and illustrations, ISBN 10: 1-931499-38-1 ISBN 13: 978-1-931499-38-5