Flax workshop: Flaxland will cover the preparation and spinning of flax as well as its history.

Simon and Ann have been growing flax for over 40 years and promoting traditional skills through education and workshops at their base in the Cotswolds for almost 20. They will kick off with a talk about their work and vision restoring flax to its place in UK production, not just as a heritage crop but as a viable future contribution to the economy, then move into a workshop using drop spindles or your own wheel. Flax spinning is not the same as wool spinning so whilst experienced spinners may have a head start, the day is suitable for all including the most novice.

They will demonstrate the processing of flax from straw to fibre with participation available to those who wish it. There are plenty of small tools to learn on, play with and, if stocks allow, buy.

You may bring your own flax if you’ve grown it but there will be lots of samples, and materials such as hackled fibre to use at the workshop and enough drop spindles for all. Tamara will have her Ashford Tradional available on the day if anyone wants a go on a wheel but doesn’t wish to bring one. If you want to spend the whole time on a wheel though, bring one.

Everyone should end up with a wealth of new skills and some finished linen yarn/thread.