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Our annual natural fiber issue is back—we'd love to hear your ideas!
Kate Larson2 min read
Truly, the natural world is brimming with inspiration. From golden winter grasses silhouetted by the fading sunlight to the dizzying array of patterns in animal markings, there’s always something to delight the senses. Then comes the challenge of translating that inspiration to fiber—whether it’s finding the perfectly dyed braid, or designing a new pattern, or learning a new technique to bring that inspiration to life. For so many of us fiber folks, natural fibers provide comfort, relaxation, and connection in times of dizzying change.
We are excited to start planning our annual natural-fibers issue, Spin Off Winter! We've chosen Flora and Fauna as our theme and inspiration this year. The phrase "flora and fauna" often evokes a heady mix of science and poetry—a happy crossroad for so many spinners! What natural fibers inspire you? We hope you will share your article and project ideas with us.
Are you exploring the natural fibers that are local to you? Have you been down in the weeds (haha) studying a plant fiber that you think more spinners should experience? Have you taken a deep dive into natural dyeing with flowers or fungi? What kinds of textiles were (and are) made using llama fiber? And how do you dehair llama for a great spinning experience?
Left: Silky llama locks from Misty Morn Llamas; photo by Matt Graves. Right: Kornerstone’s Lucky Ace—call name: Ace; photo by Vick Barylak
How could you spin your own naturally colored cotton for a soothing cross-stitch project? Do you want to share a new method for creating a glimmering mix of silk and other natural fibers? There is so much to explore.
We are also looking for projects that make the best use of natural fibers. Do you have a cozy winter hat pattern that makes natural fibers look and feel like velvet? Do you have a design for a lush pile weave to make use of thrums or other handspun leftovers? Maybe you are inspired by nature’s structures and want to design a lace shawl so you can wrap up in glorious texture.
Share your article and project proposals for the Flora and Fauna issue of Spin Off.
Have an idea that doesn’t fit our theme? Send that to us, too! We may be able to use it in an upcoming issue.
Use our convenient online submissions form to send us your article and project proposals and attach photos and sketches, too.
Questions? Contact us at spinoff@longthreadmedia.com.
Online Submissions Form Spin Off Winter 2026
Do you want to be added to the Spin Off Call for Submissions email list? Sign up here.
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