Try & Ply

Description

Starting to spin? Then this is the set you want by your side. When you’re learning, the fiber you use makes all the difference. If it’s too soft and slippery, or the fibers are too short, it can be hard to stay in control. That can be frustrating, especially when you’re just trying to get a feel for it.

That’s why I’ve put together a trio of beginner-friendly fibers that are just right in both length and texture. They draft smoothly, respond well to your hands, and help you build confidence as you spin. Less slipping, more success and a yarn that’s actually fun to make.

Each Try & Ply set includes three 25-gram samples in different fiber types and colors. Just enough to play, compare, and see what works for you. The color selection is intentional too: you can combine shades, ply them together, or try spinning them side by side. Even a subtle shift in tone can completely change the feel of your yarn. There’s no right or wrong here, just curiosity and creativity.

Merino Top

The merino top in this set is soft, smooth and compact. The fibers are neatly aligned, with a micron count of about 23 and a staple length of 7.5 to 8 cm. This makes it great for fine yarns with crisp definition, but it does require a bit more control when drafting, especially if you’re still finding your rhythm. But if you take your time, you’ll be rewarded with a sleek, even yarn.

Corriedale Top

The corriedale top is a bit coarser (around 27 micron) and has a longer staple length of 8 to 12 cm. It’s grippier and more forgiving, which makes it a great fiber to practice with. Drafting feels smooth and predictable, giving you plenty of room to focus on your spinning technique.

Corriedale Roving

This fiber is made from the same Corriedale wool as the top, but it’s prepared differently: it’s carded instead of combed, which means the fibers are more jumbled and less aligned. The staple length is slightly shorter than the top, and you’ll feel that difference while spinning.

Even though the preparation invites a different spinning technique, you absolutely don’t have to change your approach. If you just keep spinning the way you’re used to, for example with a short forward draw, you’ll likely notice that your yarn feels rounder, loftier, and softer compared to the yarns you make from the other two samples in the set.

Which one is the easiest?

All three are beginner-friendly, but if you’d like a gentle progression:

1. Corriedale top, lots of grip, easy to draft
2. Corriedale roving, light and open, invites play
3. Merino top, smooth and fine, needs a bit more control

“Some yarns only show up when you stop trying to make them perfect.”