Booklist Reviews
Loving wool and all its needleworking implications, such as crocheting and knitting, doesn't necessarily add up to a love for its cousin, spinning. "It's costly," say the nay-sayers. "Requires too much equipment and knowledge," insist others. Answering all those negative reactions with an updated easy-to-use manual is British crafter and author Martineau. Her approach is simple. She streamlines the information and shows critical instructions—dyeing, using different spindles, and finishing the yarn—in colorful step-by-step photographs. Basic troubleshooting tips demystify and solve common issues. Plus, her response to equipment expense is to make your own: PVC pipes and a bit of do-it-yourself handiness will net a spindle or two and even a spinning wheel. Two other features give even rank amateurs a chance to aspire to turning pro: four separate galleries, each highlighting the work and biography of one artist; and a separate section on selling handmade yarn, with tips on photography, shipping, handling, and managing online sales. Resources (useful websites, further reading, glossary, contributors) are included. Copyright 2013 Booklist Reviews.