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Are you stuck in a spinning rut and not sure how to get out of it? Or do you long to build your spinner’s toolbox with new and exciting skills? Either way, there’s something for you at this year’s Spin Off Autumn Retreat (SOAR). This year’s class list is now live, and I wanted to highlight three classes that you may not have considered yet.
Expand Your Spinning Skills with Maggie Casey
We hear a lot of spinners say, “I’d love to attend SOAR, but I’m just not good enough.” Banish the thought! Everyone who comes to SOAR, from students and teachers to the staff, is an enthusiastic learner. But if you’re looking to hone your skills, Maggie Casey’s Beyond Beginning Spinning is the class for you.
“Maggie was so very supportive and patient. The first half hour made the whole event worthwhile!!” –Lora
First, Maggie will show you how to tune up your wheel. As an experienced teacher, she’s seen just about every wheel there is and knows the ins and outs of each one. After getting your wheel up and running, you’ll prepare and spin a variety of fibers, play with different drafts from woolen to worsted, and work on consistency in size and twist. Maggie will also walk you through some finishing techniques and help you think about planning a project and designing the yarn for it. You will take home a variety of samples and plenty of ideas for using your beautiful handspun.
After taking this class myself, I can share that even if you don’t consider yourself a beginner, I think you’ll find a lot of useful insights that you’ll want to return to again and again!
Learn from Maggie Casey in Beyond Beginning Spinning.
Supercharge Your Supported Spindling with TJ King
If you don’t love the “drop” in drop spindles, or if you’ve noticed other spinner’s display of full supported spindles on social media, like I have, you should take a look at the “Gentle Art of Supported Spinning” with TJ King.
While supported spinning can look effortless in experienced hands, the skills take practice to develop. Luckily, TJ (a.k.a. The Peahen) is here to help! In this two-day class, you’ll explore supported spindle and bowl styles, fiber choices and preparation, and techniques for starting, spinning, drafting, and plying. TJ will guide you through ergonomics and strategies to help refine your practice, whether you’re new to supported spindles or building on prior experience.
Spin Boldly in Core Spinning Basics and Beyond with Charan Sachar
If razzle-dazzle is more your style, and you want to spin stunning designer yarns, check out Charan Sachar’s Core Spinning Basics and Beyond. I first became familiar with Charan through the mugs he makes with irresistible knitted textures. Since then, I’ve followed him on social media and am constantly amazed by all the beautiful works of art he creates—not just pottery, but also quilts, knits, and breathtakingly stunning handspun art yarn. His latest project? A giant mural in partnership with Seattle’s Sound Transit!
This year, we’re delighted to welcome Charan as a returning SOAR instructor. In his intensive, “Core Spinning Basics and Beyond,” you’ll start with the basics of creating a core spun yarn, then you’ll build on those fundamentals as you explore more complex yarns, including several autowrap yarns and ply structures. You’ll learn all about how to choose the right core material, when to pre-twist it, and essential troubleshooting tips. Most of all, you’ll enjoy Charan’s adventurous and open spirit as a teacher.
What is SOAR?
SOAR is a spectacular all-inclusive retreat that allows you to break away from everyday life. You’ll arrive at the Heritage Hills Resort in York, Pennsylvania, on October 11, 2026, and have the afternoon to get settled, meet other spinners, and enjoy a happy hour and dinner. The next morning, immerse yourself in the first of four days of spinning classes. Start with , with a two-day deep dive into one topic, followed by four half-day sampler classes over two more days of learning. In the evenings, there are captivating keynote speakers, a fashion show, and of course, shopping. Many spinners return year after year, and after attending my first two SOAR events, I can see why. It’s truly a spinner’s paradise!
These are just a few of the two-day classes—for more, head on over to the SOAR website.
Will We See You at SOAR?
If you’re considering joining us, note that fewer than 10 spots remain, so you’ll want to make sure to register soon. We can’t wait to see you at SOAR!