Frequently asked questions:
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Fiber loses weight as dirt, grease, vegetable matter, and short fibers are removed. We believe that using stage‑based weights keeps pricing fair and transparent. The handspinner package is an exception that may better serve those needing single fleece processing only.
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Washing is billed on incoming (raw) weight, which includes dirt and grease.
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Picking, fiber‑separator and carder passes are billed on washed weight at that stage of the process.
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All carded products and finished yarn are billed on finished weight.
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Yes, this is one of the best ways you can contribute to the success of your fiber processing! It is strongly recommended that you skirt your fleece aggressively before sending. Well skirted fiber will expedite processing time and cost and produce the best result.
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We will perform an inspection and do a light “safety skirting” when your fiber arrives as part of our service, but if heavy skirting is required due to fiber condition this will be charged as an hourly rate for the additional labor.
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Yes, we wash all incoming fiber to ensure that we are able to produce consistent, predictable results for your fiber as well as to protect our equipment.
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We strongly advise that you do not pre-wash your fiber. Our processing is set up to gently and effectively wash your fiber at the correct temperature to ensure quality processing. Let us save you that step —spend that extra time doing a really thorough job skirting your fleeces!
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Add‑ins are fibers (such as silk, bamboo, or cotton, Firestar, etc.) that can be blended with your wool at the picker to create custom blends.
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A blending fee applies, plus material cost if we supply the add‑ins. Please note that we may not have all add-ins in stock at all times. As an option, you may choose to provide the add-ins with your shipment and we will only charge the additional labor.
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Some fibers won’t hold together as roving due to staple length or structure. If, upon inspection your fiber will not produce good roving we will talk with you to recommend that we only process to the cloud stage. Cloud is still excellent for handspinning. Our goal is to return the best product for your fiber.
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When capacity allows, rush service may be offered at a premium but we will not displace scheduled work.
