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Tussie Mussie Preparation Resources for Spinning Silk

Topic Tools & Equipment, Plying/Yarn Design, Fiber Prep, Spindle
Fiber Silk
Author Kim McKenna, Kate Larson
Format Video

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A seasoned silk spinner, Kim McKenna discovered that modern advances in silk degumming and fiber processing resulted in eri silk top that is soft with a delicate pearly sheen. However, these advances required her to make changes to how she manipulates eri silk prior to spinning. Kim developed the tussie mussie method of silk preparation, which allows her to maintain control over the slippery fibers and spin fine, consistent singles.

This compilation of resources includes:

  • Kim’s article “A Spinner’s Tussie Mussie: Preparing Eri Silk Sliver” that first appeared in Spin Off in Winter 2023
  • Kate Larson’s video “The Tussie Mussie Fiber Preparation” that walks you through the process of preparing your own tussie mussie

Spin Off has pulled together together text instructions and video instructions to help spinners of all levels discover the joys of spinning eri silk.

About: Kim McKenna says her journey is a delicate balance between science and art. Her research helps her to understand the intrinsic nature of the material, and practice helps to improve upon the mechanics of skill. However, she sees a point where the mind must be turned off and her hands and intuition be allowed to guide her. Kim shares her passion and journey at claddaghfibrearts.com, on Instagram as @claddaghfibrearts, and in lectures and workshops, including online.

About: Kate Larson, editor of Farm & Fiber Knits, was the editor of Spin Off from from 2018–2025. She's excited to continue serving Spin Off as content editor. Kate teaches handspinning around the country and spends as many hours as life allows in the barn with her beloved flock of Border Leicesters.

All items in the library are intended for personal use. Please do not distribute without written approval.