The Sagebrush Spinners and Weavers were at Nicola Canford Elementary School April 28 to demonstrate spinning and to give students in grades four and five an opportunity to try it for themselves.

The demonstration was part of a simple machines unit for the grade five classes with librarian Kim Walter, but many students from other grades took part in the activity.

“It's a grade five science unit,” said Walter.

“The kids get an introduction to simple tools and machines like pulleys and levers.”

Other classes were learning about spinning through social studies.

About 75 science and social studies students took part in the activity, according to Walter.

“We set up in the library and the kids came down, not only to watch, but also to try spinning for themselves,” said Sagebrush Spinners and Weavers member Andrea Lawrence.

“We are a group of 12 members, open to anyone in the public who is interested in spinning and weaving. We spin all kinds of natural fibers; wool, alpaca, llama, and silk. The wool becomes a two-ply yarn that is ready for weaving.”

The group, which meets every second week, produces scarves, hats, mittens, blankets, and shawls.

Some of these products will be available for sale on June 19 in the Bailey House garden as part of International Knit In Public Day. The Sagebrush Spinners will be there from 10am to 2pm.

“Everyone is welcome to bring a project and join us,” said Lawrence.