It's creative, it's tactile and it's something different.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
When you hear the term "wool spinning", Sleeping Beauty pricking her finger on the distaff might be the first thing that comes to mind.
The Portland Spinstars are a little more handy though when it comes to spinning yarn to create beautiful beanies, scarves, rugs, ponchos and more.
The 13 ladies get together every Wednesday at Portland Golf Club to spin wool and enjoy each other's company.
Spinstar member Lyn Locke has been spinning since she bought her first wheel in 1975 and said she loved everything about it.
"It's almost meditative, it's got a very calming, rhythmic way to it, I can feel my blood pressure dropping," she said.
It's almost meditative, it's got a very calming, rhythmic way to it, I can feel my blood pressure dropping.
- Lyn Locke
"I took it up many years ago but there wasn't much time for it with children and work but recently I've found the time again to do something I love."
Lyn said she also had the privilege of meeting new people.
"I've met people who share the same interest as me, the best part is we all make something different and unique," she said.
She also said being a part of a group, she got to attend different events around town.
"We recently went to Moyne Farm and we're always at craft markets. Our group seems to be growing and we've only been spinning together for less than a year," she said.
Lyn said the beauty of spinning was the fact it was variable.
"There's different yarns from different fibres, some of us in the group even own alpacas and use their fleece," she said.
Read more:
She also said there were different kinds of wheels when it came to spinning.
"I think they're [wheels] beautiful.
"I've probably got about a dozen, including one I take camping and whip out at the camp fire" she said.
Lyn said there were plenty of exotic wheels around and people could spend anywhere from $80 for a secondhand wheel to thousands for something fancy.
"You've got the Ashford traveller, Ashford traditional, Rappard Weepeggy, Astrid... to name a few. The Ashford traditional wheel is the most common wheel in Australia," she said.
She said the equipment looked industrial but it wasn't a complicated task and anyone could do it.
"There are even electric spinning wheels available for those who have trouble moving their legs," she said.
The Portland Spinstars are always looking for more spinning members, anyone interested can contact Joan Applin on 0411 025 956.
Fundraiser
The Portland Spinstars will host a 'Go Pink' morning tea fundraiser for breast cancer on Wednesday, October 30 at Portland Golf Club from 10am-1pm.
Everyone is welcome to attend, and can come learn to spin, other craft groups are also welcome to come out and can contact Joan for more information.
Love local news?
Why not subscribe.