Spinning Silk: from Cocoon to Thread

Learn to spin soft, luminous silk—coaxing pale cocoons into vibrant, botanically dyed thread. This hands-on workshop explores the complete journey of silk: from the miraculous mechanics of silkworm spinners to the ancient traditions of the Silk Road, from degumming cocoons to spinning fine filaments into finished yarn.

Students will learn to prepare silk in multiple forms—creating silk hankies and roving from cocoons, then hand spinning and plying these delicate fibers into single and two-ply thread. The class covers drop spindle construction (students make their own to take home), and spinning techniques specific to silk's unique properties.

Throughout the workshop, the instructor weaves in the storied history of sericulture—both at industrial and home scales—and the remarkable biology of silkworms who spin a single continuous filament up to a mile long.

Students leave with their handmade drop spindle, spun silk thread (single and two-ply), and extra cocoons to continue experimenting at home.

No spinning experience required.