Rambouillet (part 1)

I was gifted samples of Rambouillet wool by a local spinner who also likes to encourage new spinners.

Top down: scoured black Rambouillet, white Rambouillet roving, raw white Rambouillet

Getting started on this stash was precipitated by the acquisition of my wool combs. I love my mini Louet wool combs. They make such a nice preparation of the wool for spinning.

Combed black Rambouillet (left), uncombed (right)

I spun the combed wool with my latest 3D printed spindle as I walked the neighborhood. Not only did the Rambouillet spin like a dream, my spindle didn’t break when I dropped it. Huzzah! I can give extra weight to my spindle by putting stone beads in the center cavity. To keep the beads from jumping out, I cap the space with a bit of wool. Easy to tuck in, easy to remove with a crochet hook.

Black Rambouillet single spun on my 3D printed spindle

I plied the single right after spinning, using the same spindle. I slid the cop of yarn off the spindle, found the center end and joined it with the outside end, then two plied the yarn with an opposite spin. The spindle performed admirably, and the yarn is lovely.

Using a different color leader to start the spinning makes it easier to find the center end
Two-ply cop of black Rambouillet yarn

I’ve divided this post into parts because I have loads of information to share! I understand why two thirds of the sheep in the US are Rambouillet (Brittanica), it is cottony and fine and absolutely a pleasure to spin.