Richmond – Have you ever wondered how the Egyptians made thread? Ever wanted to make your own yarn? The Fort Bend Museum is offering several classes this summer to explore the wonderfully-fluffy world of the fiber arts! Join Outreach Coordinator Allison Harrell to learn about the history of the drop spindle and how to use this simple tool to make yarn.
Harrell, whose passion for the fiber arts is matched only by her quest to find her husband the best enchiladas in Houston, said she is super excited to share everything she’s learned about making yarn the old-fashioned way.
“I was taught to spin a long time ago, and was never really that good at it, but I do it all the time for my job,” she said. “I wanted to practice more, so this year I asked for a Turkish drop spindle for Christmas. Now I am very addicted!”
Harrell’s drop spindle collection has expanded to include nearly a half-dozen different types, including one made using a 3-D printer. She has done extensive research on the history of the fiber arts, different techniques used throughout the centuries and how those skills can be used in modern times.
In the end, though, she’s mostly just excited about sharing her love of “all things fluff” with class-goers.
“Spinning is very soothing and is a great way to be creative without a lot of pressure. You don’t have to worry about color choices or if you are within the lines as you spin. You just have to spin! It’s almost meditative,” she said.
The two-hour class is geared for ages 12+ and will cover the basics of bottom whorl spindles and prepare students to learn more fiber arts skills such as spinning on a spinning wheel and weaving. Price includes a bottom whorl drop spindle and an ounce of merino wool to take home!
The beginner’s drop spindle class will take place on a variety of dates to accommodate busy summer schedules. Wednesday classes will occur on July 12, August 9 and September 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday classes will take place on July 8 and August 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. Cost is $20 per person ($15 for members of the Fort Bend County Museum Association). Classes will be capped at a maximum of 10 people, so be sure to RSVP early by calling 281-342-6478 or emailing aharrell@fortbendmuseum.org.
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE FORT BEND MUSEUM:
The Fort Bend Museum is located at 500 Houston Street in Richmond. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (62+) and $3 for children ages five to 15. Operating hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
ABOUT THE FORT BEND COUNTY MUSEUM ASSOCIATION:
The Fort Bend Museum is owned and operated by the Fort Bend County Museum Association, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The Fort Bend County Museum Association was chartered in 1967 with the mission of preserving, interpreting and sharing Fort Bend County’s rich history. The Association also manages the programs at the George Ranch Historical Park and DeWalt Heritage Center. For more information about the Association, please call 281-342-1256.