If you want to learn how to spin your own naturally dyed wool/yarn, join us in the Highlands for our hand-spinning retreat this Spring.
This year we thought we would combine our spinning courses with a retreat, and create an autumnal spinning getaway! Perfect for those looking to learn to spin as well as those looking for a bit of time out and relaxation. This 6 day craft retreat will run from Monday to Saturday and will include; one full day of natural dyeing with botanical dyes, one day of gentle walking in Glen Affric and two full days of hand-spinning tuition with Alison.
We will start off in the woods, making natural dyes outdoors over fires. We will make traditional Highland colours from foraged dye plants, as well as using ancient imported dye plants and household items, which have been used in the Highlands. We will mostly be dyeing local Shetland fleece, as well as fleece from our own small flock. Over the day we will make up about 5 dye pots, producing over 15 shades of stunning colour, ready to spin into our own unique yarn.
We live in such a beautiful area is it lovely to take time out and enjoy the stunning scenery around us, a visit to Glen Affric is a must when coming here, as it is known as one of Scotland’s most beautiful Glens. After a morning of checking our dye pots we will drive out down the glen. The walks are all along paths and are taken at a slow gentle pace, giving you time to enjoy the lochs, rivers and woodland areas.
The last two days of the course are spent learning to hand spin with Alison. Alison has a lovely relaxed manner and teaches spinning in easy to follow steps. Guests can have a go at a drop spindle and then move on to one of our spinning wheels. The focus of the last two days will be learning to spin with a spinning wheel.
At the end of the course participants will take home their own unique, hand-spun yarn as well as their knowledge of natural dyeing.
Guests stay at the Old Stables, which is nestled between farmland, the river and the woods. The large house has a homely feel and guests can choose an ensuite room, a double or to share a twin room with another guest.
There are also many stunning walks just outside the door, Corrimony cairn is just down the track and the RSPB reserve is across the river. A wonderful tranquil place, perfect for cosy evenings of craft.
We love to cook and provide all the meals over the week, we are happy to cater for any dietary needs. We pick all our guests up from Inverness, which can be easily reached by plane, train or bus.
Prices start at £845 (to share a twin), £945 (double), £995 (ensuite room).
