AboutBJ Heeke Expertise I can answer questions about spindle spinning, low whorl, high whorl, & supported spindles. I can answer questions about navajo plying on a wheel, & andean plying from a spindle. I can also answer questions regarding making one`s own spindles from CD`s or wooden wheels and dowels.
I have limited weaving experience, but if I do not know the answer, I surely will find someone who does!
Experience I have been spinning for 20 years. I make my own spindles. I have taught spindling classes.
Organizations Northwest Regional Spinner's Association, Texas Fiber Guild, Heart of Texas Spinners & Weavers, & Spindlitis. Past member of the Little Flock Handspinners of Seattle (disbanded) and Valley Spinners (opps, lapsed membership).
Publications I have written a series of articles for NwRSA's newsletter 'Loose Threads' for spinners about finding information on the Internet called 'Wired Threads'.
I have served as an editor for the Contemporary Handweavers of Texas as well as membership chair for 2 years. I also taught a spindling class at the 2005 conference in Austin, TX.
I will be teaching at Kid 'n Ewe in Boerne, TX November 10-12, 2006.
Question I recently received fleece from one of my alpacas that was sheared at the ranch I am boarding her at. I noticed that the fiber seems to have what looks like nits from lice....they seem to be stuck in the fiber. Is there anyway to remove these little white dandriffy things? I want to spin it into yarn.
Answer Dear Julie
I had to ask my experts on this as I have not dealt with fleeces with this problem. Unfortunately it sounds like your alpaca might be hosting a parasite like lice or fleas. This is what my sources said:
Those little white things are exactly that -- Nits. Throw the fiber away! I know that's painful, but I haven't found anywhere that will accept that fiber in any form. Make sure your animals are treated with a parasite killing agent.
and another says:
Fleas have the same thing. If you're boarding your animals, maybe go visit them and double check their stalls and living conditions. Maybe the people aren't aware of an infestation. It's not just the animal that needs to be treated.
So there you have it. Sorry to be the messenger of not so good news, but hopefully this will help for the next shearing!
