CC (Chase Combing)

CC, or Chase Combing, is a technique used in hand spinning wool fibers into yarn. The goal of CC is to blend different colors or types of wool fibers together to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing yarn. In this process, the spinner "chases" the different fibers by combing them together as they spin the yarn.

To begin the CC process, the spinner will select the wool fibers they wish to combine. These fibers may be different colors, different types of wool, or even fibers from different animals (such as alpaca or silk). The spinner will then prepare the fibers by carding them. Carding is the process of brushing the fibers to separate and align them, making them easier to spin. Once the fibers are carded, the spinner will create a rolag, which is a roll of wool fibers that is easy to spin.

Next, the spinner will begin spinning the rolag into yarn. As they spin, they will hold the rolag in one hand and a combs in the other. The combs used in CC are typically small and have long, thin teeth. The spinner will use the combs to comb through the wool fibers in the rolag as they spin. This process of combing the fibers together as they spin is what gives CC its name.

As the spinner combs through the rolag, they may choose to add in additional fibers or colors. For example, they may add in a bit of red wool to the rolag, combing it through to create a subtle blend of colors. The spinner may also choose to change the direction they are combing, which can create different effects in the final yarn.

One of the benefits of CC is that it allows the spinner to create a wide range of colors and textures in their yarn. By blending different fibers together, they can create a yarn that is unique and one-of-a-kind. CC can also help to make the yarn more durable, as the different fibers are more evenly distributed throughout the yarn.

There are a few different techniques that can be used when practicing CC. One technique is called "inchworming," where the spinner will comb through a small section of the rolag before spinning that section into yarn. This allows for more control over the blending process, as the spinner can ensure that the fibers are evenly distributed.

Another technique is called "long draw CC," where the spinner will hold the rolag further away from the spinning wheel and allow the fibers to pull out as they spin. This creates a more uneven and textured yarn, with different fibers blending together in unpredictable ways.

CC can also be combined with other spinning techniques, such as plying. Plying is the process of spinning two or more strands of yarn together to create a thicker and more durable yarn. By using CC in combination with plying, the spinner can create a yarn that is both visually interesting and functional.

Overall, CC is a technique that allows hand spinners to create unique and beautiful yarns. By blending different colors and types of wool fibers together as they spin, they can create yarns that are visually interesting and one-of-a-kind. Whether used on its own or in combination with other spinning techniques, CC is a valuable skill for any hand spinner to have.

There are a few different tools that can be used in CC, depending on the preferences of the spinner. Some spinners prefer to use hand-held combs, while others prefer to use drum carders or blending boards. Hand-held combs are useful for inchworming and creating more precise blends, while drum carders and blending boards allow for larger amounts of fiber to be blended at once.

When practicing CC, it is important to pay attention to the tension of the yarn. The tension refers to the amount of resistance that the yarn has as it is spun. If the tension is too tight, the yarn may break or become too thick. If the tension is too loose, the yarn may become thin and weak. Experienced spinners will adjust the tension as needed while spinning to create the desired thickness and strength in the yarn.

CC is not limited to wool fibers - it can also be used with other types of fibers, such as silk or alpaca. Combining different types of fibers can create interesting textures and visual effects in the final yarn. However, it is important to note that different fibers may require different spinning techniques and tension adjustments, so it is important for the spinner to experiment and practice with different fibers to find what works best for them.

In addition to creating unique and visually interesting yarns, CC can also be a sustainable and eco-friendly way to create textiles. By using natural fibers and hand spinning techniques, spinners can create textiles that are free from harsh chemicals and are more environmentally friendly than mass-produced textiles.

In conclusion, CC is a valuable technique for hand spinners who want to create unique and visually interesting yarns. By blending different colors and types of wool fibers together as they spin, spinners can create yarns that are one-of-a-kind and visually appealing. CC can be combined with other spinning techniques, such as plying, to create functional and durable yarns. With practice and experimentation, hand spinners can master the art of CC and create beautiful textiles that are sustainable and eco-friendly.