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Watch our newest free braid lesson, then take your fractal spinning to the next level to create complex and interesting colors.
Spin Off Contributors8 min read

In the third lesson of 5 Ways to Prep and Spin a Braid with Kate Larson, we’re exploring fractals. (Are you new to the series? Start here.) Fractals are never-ending patterns that repeat at different scales. In everyday life, they can often be seen in branching and spiral patterns such as trees, river networks, the shape of our lungs, and even galaxies. Fractals are simple but stunning, and fractal spinning is no different!
To start, check out this quick video, where Kate Larson walks us through how to spin a three-ply fractal yarn.
Fractal spinning is a method for managing color in multicolored dyed top or roving. It applies the idea of repeating patterns at different scales to handspun yarn, combining the different scales in the plies for subtly layered stripes. In this skill guide, we’ll walk through the basics of fractal spinning and then dive deeper to discover more ways to play with fractals.
Adapted from “The Fractal Stripe” by Janel Laidman
Color is complex, but there are a few simple guidelines that can help you plan your fractal stripe projects.
The first aspect to notice is the scale of the color repeats in the dye job. Here are some questions to ask about your roving that can affect the outcome.
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