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Yarnitecture: A Knitter's Guide to Spinning: Building Exactly the Yarn You Want
Knitters are branching out and exploring options for creating their own handspun yarn. This is the book that equips them with the confidence and knowledge to realize their vision every step of the way--from fiber braid to dream yarn to knitted project.
562 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2016
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391 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 7, 2017
I got this book for Christmas, but it got buried on the coffee table after unpacking my luggage. When my spinning prompted me to ask myself questions, I pulled this book out in search of answers. Boy, am I glad I did. This is a fantastic book and I read it cover to cover.
The book is organized with an architecture analogy (in case you didn't get that from the title). When you want to make a specific type of yarn, it makes sense to consider your blueprint (your "yarn vision"), the building's foundation (considering wool breeds and other fiber materials), the frame (preparing fiber to spin), the walls (drafting fiber), the roof (plying), the paint (color!), the front door (finishing), and the landscaping (knitting with handspun yarn). There is even a chapter for housewarming, which presents 12 patterns designed to show off handspun yarn of different types.
The book really could not be more clearly written. I felt that Jillian Moreno was at my side, gently instructing me about the spinning process. I consider myself an intermediate to advanced spinner (at least with wool), and I still consumed the basic information in this book with relish. There are always little details that I've missed in my fiber education, and I got so many great tips and techniques here.
The photos clearly communicate the concepts they are meant to illustrate. At the same time, they are so beautiful I may have drooled on the pages of my book. Many times as I was reading, I held up the book to whomever was in the room with me and demanded "See! See! Look at the pretty, pretty fiber/yarn!" If only the specific supplier of each braid of fiber was identified in the photo captions... (the fact that they weren't undoubtedly saved my wallet!). Some of Moreno's illustrations pack so much information into one page that they are practically infographics. One spread shows 32 swatches made from four fibers finished eight different ways. This kind of comparison study is enormously helpful and my hat is off to her for including these experiments in her book.
I have quite a few spinning books on my shelf, but this is the one I will recommend to spinners from now on. Moreno presents her content so well, and Storey Press did a fantastic job with the book design. This is a keeper. Even if you don't spin, take a look at the knitting patterns!
The book is organized with an architecture analogy (in case you didn't get that from the title). When you want to make a specific type of yarn, it makes sense to consider your blueprint (your "yarn vision"), the building's foundation (considering wool breeds and other fiber materials), the frame (preparing fiber to spin), the walls (drafting fiber), the roof (plying), the paint (color!), the front door (finishing), and the landscaping (knitting with handspun yarn). There is even a chapter for housewarming, which presents 12 patterns designed to show off handspun yarn of different types.
The book really could not be more clearly written. I felt that Jillian Moreno was at my side, gently instructing me about the spinning process. I consider myself an intermediate to advanced spinner (at least with wool), and I still consumed the basic information in this book with relish. There are always little details that I've missed in my fiber education, and I got so many great tips and techniques here.
The photos clearly communicate the concepts they are meant to illustrate. At the same time, they are so beautiful I may have drooled on the pages of my book. Many times as I was reading, I held up the book to whomever was in the room with me and demanded "See! See! Look at the pretty, pretty fiber/yarn!" If only the specific supplier of each braid of fiber was identified in the photo captions... (the fact that they weren't undoubtedly saved my wallet!). Some of Moreno's illustrations pack so much information into one page that they are practically infographics. One spread shows 32 swatches made from four fibers finished eight different ways. This kind of comparison study is enormously helpful and my hat is off to her for including these experiments in her book.
I have quite a few spinning books on my shelf, but this is the one I will recommend to spinners from now on. Moreno presents her content so well, and Storey Press did a fantastic job with the book design. This is a keeper. Even if you don't spin, take a look at the knitting patterns!
August 18, 2016
Like me you probably have whole shelves devoted to, and have read many books about, spinning, yarn, and wool from the likes of Alden Amos, Carol Ekarius, Judith MacKenzie McCuin, Clara Parkes, and Deborah Robson among many others (I just took a quick sampling of my bookshelf, I can’t list everyone), but you haven’t quite figured out how to take all that knowledge and improve the yarn you spin. Yarnitecture is your answer.
Moreno builds on her extensive experience as a knitter and spinner and has figured out a way to break down all the parts of making a yarn in a way that makes sense and will aid the reader in producing the yarn they want to spin. This isn’t a book for those who have never picked up a spindle or sat at a wheel. It’s perfect for me as I already keep a notebook (very useful for my yarn vision) and want to move out of what I’ll call my spinning rut. Several years ago my goal was to figure out how to spin a consistent yarn of a certain size. I can. I now almost always prepare, draft, and spin my fiber the same way braid after braid.
Organized in seven sections, grouped and named inspired by phases encountered when building a house (such as foundation, frame, and paint), Moreno has written a remarkable book. I took copious notes each time I’ve read my eARC copy. I am incorporating the lessons and tips I’ve picked up into my spinning and I see a positive result in my spinning.
While many experienced spinners will likely think they should skip straight to the chapter of what’s currently causing them trouble, I urge at least one complete cover to cover read. Yes, I know my notebook about my spinning isn’t unique, but I like Moreno’s way to keep quick notes with her samples and spun yarns. It’s also nice to read suggestions on what to record, and why.
The photos of fiber preparations and clarifying woolen vs worsted and top vs roving should be required reading for all spinners and those who write product descriptions. I’m sure I’ve read it a zillion times before. I think it’s finally beginning to stick.
All of the other sections from drafting, plying, color, to finishing and actual knitting are delightful and full of tips. When two (or more) techniques are compared, I enjoyed the clear photographs to help further explain what was going on and why. The included designs are both a range of styles and fibers and a great starting point for taking the lessons in the book and turning them into something that can be knitted and not just another pretty skein of handspun that sits in a basket to be admired. I liked that notes were included from the spinner of the yarn of things they found difficult or helpful.
I recommend this to every spinning knitter. I’m eager for a time machine so I can give it to my past self and prevent many hours of spinning frustration.
I received an eARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a review. The FTC wants you to know.
Moreno builds on her extensive experience as a knitter and spinner and has figured out a way to break down all the parts of making a yarn in a way that makes sense and will aid the reader in producing the yarn they want to spin. This isn’t a book for those who have never picked up a spindle or sat at a wheel. It’s perfect for me as I already keep a notebook (very useful for my yarn vision) and want to move out of what I’ll call my spinning rut. Several years ago my goal was to figure out how to spin a consistent yarn of a certain size. I can. I now almost always prepare, draft, and spin my fiber the same way braid after braid.
Organized in seven sections, grouped and named inspired by phases encountered when building a house (such as foundation, frame, and paint), Moreno has written a remarkable book. I took copious notes each time I’ve read my eARC copy. I am incorporating the lessons and tips I’ve picked up into my spinning and I see a positive result in my spinning.
While many experienced spinners will likely think they should skip straight to the chapter of what’s currently causing them trouble, I urge at least one complete cover to cover read. Yes, I know my notebook about my spinning isn’t unique, but I like Moreno’s way to keep quick notes with her samples and spun yarns. It’s also nice to read suggestions on what to record, and why.
The photos of fiber preparations and clarifying woolen vs worsted and top vs roving should be required reading for all spinners and those who write product descriptions. I’m sure I’ve read it a zillion times before. I think it’s finally beginning to stick.
All of the other sections from drafting, plying, color, to finishing and actual knitting are delightful and full of tips. When two (or more) techniques are compared, I enjoyed the clear photographs to help further explain what was going on and why. The included designs are both a range of styles and fibers and a great starting point for taking the lessons in the book and turning them into something that can be knitted and not just another pretty skein of handspun that sits in a basket to be admired. I liked that notes were included from the spinner of the yarn of things they found difficult or helpful.
I recommend this to every spinning knitter. I’m eager for a time machine so I can give it to my past self and prevent many hours of spinning frustration.
I received an eARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a review. The FTC wants you to know.
Read
May 5, 2016This beautiful book begins with a gorgeous cover, and is filled with photos of handspun yarn and various items knitted from handspun yarn.
The book begins with the usual introductions, and of course talks about the various types of wools. Naturally you'd expect that in any handspinning book. The book also talks about spinning with intention, which I think made some interesting points. The book also covers preparing fiber for spinning, and talks about the importance of twist, types of plying, finding balance, etc; again, with photos that can't help but inspire you (and makes me wish I was a much better spinner, with an actual spinning wheel and not just a hand spindle!)
Then there's a lot of information about color, color theory, etc., followed by finishing your yarn.
Lastly, there's a small, but nice, section of patterns specific to handspun yarn, by well known designers.
All in all, I think this is a must for any hand-spinners library, especially those that may not be spinning for a long time.
The book begins with the usual introductions, and of course talks about the various types of wools. Naturally you'd expect that in any handspinning book. The book also talks about spinning with intention, which I think made some interesting points. The book also covers preparing fiber for spinning, and talks about the importance of twist, types of plying, finding balance, etc; again, with photos that can't help but inspire you (and makes me wish I was a much better spinner, with an actual spinning wheel and not just a hand spindle!)
Then there's a lot of information about color, color theory, etc., followed by finishing your yarn.
Lastly, there's a small, but nice, section of patterns specific to handspun yarn, by well known designers.
All in all, I think this is a must for any hand-spinners library, especially those that may not be spinning for a long time.
May 8, 2017
If I could have only one spinning reference book, this would be it. Yes, the info here is available elsewhere, in bits and pieces, worded in various ways. But this is clear, not too concise, and has a friendly presentation. The photos are better than eye candy - the series on how each finishing technique affects FOUR different yarns AND how they knit up cannot be beat. The patterns are a wealth of info as well, explaining how everything Moreno talks about in the first part of the book applies to these various items. The spinners notes are very helpful. I might not make these items, but I WILL refer to these pattern notes when I spin a sweater/shawl/etc in future.
September 8, 2019
I skim-read* this one as a library book, and have added it to my wish-list so that I can add it to my permanent collection. There are some patterns I want to make, but more importantly some spinning techniques that I want to remember.
* Most of what I read was the technical part of how the spinning method changes the resulting yarn; most of what I skimmed was the cute-but-not-actually-spinning metaphor part that seems meant to connect with people who want a story to go with their spinning. (Note: the book needs this part to make it cohesive and useful to the most people. But it wasn't what I needed to read at the time in order to improve my color-handling when I spin yarn.)
* Most of what I read was the technical part of how the spinning method changes the resulting yarn; most of what I skimmed was the cute-but-not-actually-spinning metaphor part that seems meant to connect with people who want a story to go with their spinning. (Note: the book needs this part to make it cohesive and useful to the most people. But it wasn't what I needed to read at the time in order to improve my color-handling when I spin yarn.)
April 25, 2021
Great pictures, many samples. There's a lot of variation in spinning so it's good to see which different approach does what.
August 10, 2021
What a wonderful resource. This book is not only worth purchasing but worth purchasing in a physical form to allow for highlights and ink pen notes. Yarnitecture is to spinning what an anatomy book is to a Pre Med student.
October 19, 2024
Extremely helpful book dang!!! Best book for new spinners and honestly even for just knitters who want to pick yarn smarter.
August 4, 2019
Great reference text for spinners! I will keep looking back to this text as I spin more and more yarn.
March 21, 2017
If I ever get the urge to learn how to spin I will turn again to this book for inspiration and very useful tips.
July 15, 2019
Lots of great technical info for the intermediate spinner, well broken down and accessible. I particularly like the discussion on grist and feel that anyone who uses yarn could benefit from reading that section. The book is visually attractive with loads of pictures - totally fun just to look at it.
My complaint is that I wish the close-up photography of the yarns and sample swatches had been better, in two ways. First, they needed to be closer up than they were. For pictures that were supposed to demonstrate the differences in yarn texture or swatch texture, these really didn't do a great job because they were not close up enough. Second, I would like them to have been organized differently. There were sections with groupings of four different fibers that had all been treated in 1 way. Conceptually to show the differences in the result of that treatment. But the results of the treatment would have been much clearer if the groupings were of the same fiber shown with all it's different treatments, so that you could see the difference it made on the SAME fiber, since the *treatment* was supposed to be the variable.
Because this book was supposed to largely be about the differences in outcomes of various techniques, I feel the photographic failings of this book were substantive, which is why it earns a 3 out of 5 rating.
My complaint is that I wish the close-up photography of the yarns and sample swatches had been better, in two ways. First, they needed to be closer up than they were. For pictures that were supposed to demonstrate the differences in yarn texture or swatch texture, these really didn't do a great job because they were not close up enough. Second, I would like them to have been organized differently. There were sections with groupings of four different fibers that had all been treated in 1 way. Conceptually to show the differences in the result of that treatment. But the results of the treatment would have been much clearer if the groupings were of the same fiber shown with all it's different treatments, so that you could see the difference it made on the SAME fiber, since the *treatment* was supposed to be the variable.
Because this book was supposed to largely be about the differences in outcomes of various techniques, I feel the photographic failings of this book were substantive, which is why it earns a 3 out of 5 rating.
January 4, 2021
I got this book for Christmas and I just read through it cover to cover but expect to refer back to it many, many times and knit some of the patterns with my handspun yarn! I am a Knitter (for years) and a new Spinner (since Fall of 2020) and this was one of the books recommended to me when I started spinning! This is not Beginner’s Learn-To-Spin book but with a couple months and a couple handspun yarns under my belt, I easily soaked up a lot of the information in this book!
The book is divided by sections: Yarn Vision or Idea; Fiber Prep; Drafting; Plying; Color Management; Finishing; Knitting (12 Patterns). I especially loved the references to Sampling/Keeping track of the yarns you make (I am just starting to keep a notebook of the yarns I make and the information I want to record about each one) AND all the sampling/photos that Jillian made to reference what she is talking about in each chapter (I am a visual learner and these helped cement in my head what she was talking about in each chapter)!
I have already referred to it numerous times in practicing my spinning! It is very clearly written and laid out in sections that you can just go to if you have a question! I highly recommend this as a reference book for all spinners (even newbies like me)!
The book is divided by sections: Yarn Vision or Idea; Fiber Prep; Drafting; Plying; Color Management; Finishing; Knitting (12 Patterns). I especially loved the references to Sampling/Keeping track of the yarns you make (I am just starting to keep a notebook of the yarns I make and the information I want to record about each one) AND all the sampling/photos that Jillian made to reference what she is talking about in each chapter (I am a visual learner and these helped cement in my head what she was talking about in each chapter)!
I have already referred to it numerous times in practicing my spinning! It is very clearly written and laid out in sections that you can just go to if you have a question! I highly recommend this as a reference book for all spinners (even newbies like me)!
May 9, 2018
When Yarnitecture came out, it created a fair amount of buzz in the knitting and spinning world. I picked it up after first learning how to spin, but didn't really get very into it, as it was way above my skill level as a novice spinner. Instead, I bought a copy for Natalie, got better at spinning, and then signed up for a class by the author. After an amazing class experience, plus a stellar review (seriously, I think Natalie called me up randomly just to tell me how awesome this book was), I finally picked up a copy from the library.
It completely blew me away. Moreno very clearly laid out what happens to your a. single, b. plied yarn and c. finished knitting project if you do X technique while spinning, which is exactly what I'm looking for at this point, as I know how to spin pretty well, but don't always know what to do to get a distinctive finished product. I also think that large sections of this book are great for knitters who don't want to make their own yarn, but sometimes need help choosing the right yarn for their next project. The photos were all really clear and definitely added to my understanding, and the explanations really clicked in my brain. Honestly, the copy of it I got from the library is currently overdue, because I loved it so much and don't want to return it until I can buy myself a copy. I definitely imagine myself coming back to this book again and again anytime I want to start a new project and spin it intentionally.
It completely blew me away. Moreno very clearly laid out what happens to your a. single, b. plied yarn and c. finished knitting project if you do X technique while spinning, which is exactly what I'm looking for at this point, as I know how to spin pretty well, but don't always know what to do to get a distinctive finished product. I also think that large sections of this book are great for knitters who don't want to make their own yarn, but sometimes need help choosing the right yarn for their next project. The photos were all really clear and definitely added to my understanding, and the explanations really clicked in my brain. Honestly, the copy of it I got from the library is currently overdue, because I loved it so much and don't want to return it until I can buy myself a copy. I definitely imagine myself coming back to this book again and again anytime I want to start a new project and spin it intentionally.
May 25, 2021
This book is an incredible resource for the knitter who wants to take up spinning. I love how this book helps you envision the yarn you are wanting to build, from the "blueprint" planning stages, to choosing fibers, to preparing those fibers. Then onward to drafting, plying, dyeing and- finally- finishing. This book has a vision, and it's to get you spinning the perfect yarn for you.
I only take a star away because, though I don't believe most makers are buying this book for the patterns, the patterns are not size inclusive up to a 5x/62" bust. Two patterns are only sized small to 2x, and one is sized small to 3x. They are close, but not completely inclusive. There is, however, one garment pattern sized extra small to 4x. Again- SO close, but just shy of completely inclusive.
Despite that, this is a wonderful resource for the new spinner. And I guess it's rather pretty to look at, too!
I only take a star away because, though I don't believe most makers are buying this book for the patterns, the patterns are not size inclusive up to a 5x/62" bust. Two patterns are only sized small to 2x, and one is sized small to 3x. They are close, but not completely inclusive. There is, however, one garment pattern sized extra small to 4x. Again- SO close, but just shy of completely inclusive.
Despite that, this is a wonderful resource for the new spinner. And I guess it's rather pretty to look at, too!
February 11, 2020
This book is awesome!
First of all, it's beautiful. The photography is stunning. I can almost feel the yarn and fiber running through my fingers as I turn the pages.
Second, everything is explained so we'll, both visually and by word that everything just clicked as I was reading. I'm a new spinner (just got my wheel for Xmas) and I now know what I was spinning like intuitively (semi-worsted & semi-woolen) and what I can do to better my spinning right away.
Third, I've been knitting and crocheting for more than 20 years, I consider myself proficient, and this book opened my eyes to understanding yarn in a way I never have before.
Even if you are a knitted who doesn't want to spin your own yarn you should read this book and have your eyes opened.
Fiber arts... The possibilities are endless! I will certainly be referencing this book continuously.
First of all, it's beautiful. The photography is stunning. I can almost feel the yarn and fiber running through my fingers as I turn the pages.
Second, everything is explained so we'll, both visually and by word that everything just clicked as I was reading. I'm a new spinner (just got my wheel for Xmas) and I now know what I was spinning like intuitively (semi-worsted & semi-woolen) and what I can do to better my spinning right away.
Third, I've been knitting and crocheting for more than 20 years, I consider myself proficient, and this book opened my eyes to understanding yarn in a way I never have before.
Even if you are a knitted who doesn't want to spin your own yarn you should read this book and have your eyes opened.
Fiber arts... The possibilities are endless! I will certainly be referencing this book continuously.
January 3, 2021
This is a great book, but there’s a heavy focus on crazily colored and variegated yarns (like in all American spinning books?). Not really what I’m most interested in, but that’s ok. And what I wouldn’t give for a book that uses metric!! The only thing imperial is ever good for is sewing, for spinning it sure is very clumsy.
The author is also partial to buying already prepared wool tops or roving. She doesn’t like to process her own wool. I’m ALL about processing my own wool and don’t particularly like the idea of buying something already prepped by someone else. I like natural colors and stuff that’s a bit more subdued (no horrendous art yarns here), so in that respect this book was not perfect for me. Still, there’s lots of great information!
The author is also partial to buying already prepared wool tops or roving. She doesn’t like to process her own wool. I’m ALL about processing my own wool and don’t particularly like the idea of buying something already prepped by someone else. I like natural colors and stuff that’s a bit more subdued (no horrendous art yarns here), so in that respect this book was not perfect for me. Still, there’s lots of great information!
October 30, 2019
The photos and experiments in this book really make it stellar as educational material. I was pretty disappointed in the material until I got to section three and different concepts were being demonstrated in test pieces and photos. I learned a lot about yarn construction and recognizing the outcomes. Definitely a worthwhile read. That said, the book is similar to other knitting books that are not written technically, as for someone who has some college understanding of material properties and mechanics of materials. I am still looking for something more technical than 'twist gives yarn energy' and less technical than mathematical models of yarn twisting dynamics.
December 24, 2016
This book is great for beginners, seasoned spinners, and everyone in between. The pages are full of helpful tips and tricks on how to get the perfect yarn for your project. I have only read it once, but I know this book will be put on my reference shelf to be referred to on a regular basis until I have the pages memorized. This is defiantly a book worth a read for any spinner! I would even recommend this for a knitter or crocheter who just wants to know how to pick the perfect yarn for their projects.
November 16, 2017
I LOVED this book. The organization made sense to me, the writing was conversational and pleasant, and Ms. Moreno's approach to spinning was very accessible. I checked this book out from my library and loved it so much I went and bought my own copy. The photographs are very nice, too, as there are samples and swatches for every topic covered in the text as well as a number of very nice projects to create with your own handspun yarn. Really, this book is worth it if- whether a new spinner or a seasoned veteran, this book is a great reference.
December 30, 2016
This book must be in the library of every spinner everywhere. It's fantastic. If there is anything you want to know about how each aspect the yarn you spin affects your finished project, this book has that answer. I've been spinning for over 10 years, and this book has turned me from a "well, let's see what this yarn wants to be" spinner into an intentional spinner.
Seriously, go buy this book.
Seriously, go buy this book.
May 10, 2017
This book is great for spinners of fiber who knit. Jillian Moreno uses residential architecture plans as a blueprint to organize the process, start to finish. I like that she took the time, throughout the book, to make detailed samples and photograph them so the reader can visualize her descriptions. I'm thinking of spinning and then knitting the mitten pattern included. 5⭐️ are well deserved.
July 15, 2018
This is a terrific book! I never knew just how much about yarn I didn’t know! I will be referring back to this book many times in the future. I am a new spinner with so much to learn. I am fairly certain I will never get to the skill level of the author but it’s great to have this as a reference.
January 27, 2024
Great book for the beginner, intermediate or seasoned spinner. I began spinning and knitting back in 2008, but I enjoyed reading through this book. If you want to learn about the art of processing a fleece and spinning (and everything in between) I recommend grabbing this book. Great pictures as well.
Read
August 24, 2024An incredibly useful book filled with good information. I read it slowly and that was for me the best way to take everything in; my understanding of spinning has gotten a lot better. I am glad I got the book from the library as I don’t think it would be a good permanent addition to my personal craft book collection.
September 6, 2025
A really in depth guide for those looking to take their spinning to the next level and work on getting the yarn you want for specific projects. As a complete beginner a lot of the advice is beyond me right now but I plan on buying the book because I know it is all advice I will need eventually. I loved the detailed pictures and the knitting patterns.
July 6, 2020
A really amazing comprehensive book for anyone new to hand spinning or anyone wanting to develop their spinning techniques. It also gives great detail on what methods and fibres create what types of yarn. A very valuable and worthy book that will be a staple in any yarn lovers book collection.
July 26, 2023
Covers everything you think you need to know and more. Has detailed close-up pics of every step of the process and the product. I cannot imagine how much time it must've taken to spin and knit all the samples.
January 12, 2025
This book really shines in explaining the results of making different spinning choices, with lots of photos comparing the same fiber spun in different ways. I found the finishing and color chapters to be especially helpful. My only wish was that it went into more detail in some places.
May 8, 2017
A must have reference for any fiber artist at heart. Loved it.
August 1, 2017
Great book. detailed without going over your head. lots of wonderful ideas. got me back in the mood to spin!
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