Arran Open Studios

15th – 18th August 2025

For the very best in contemporary art and craft on the Isle of Arran

Arran Open Studios on Instagram

Thank you to Lochranza Distillery for your support again this year. We could not put on such a successful event were it not for the support of local businesses.
#arranopenstudios25
#arranwhisky
#lochranzadistillery
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Today, I am plying. After spinning two bobbins, it’s time to combine these two ‘singles’ by plying them together (turning the wheel in the opposite direction). This adds extra strength to the finished yarn, and also, especially if you’ve spun particularly fine, makes a thicker gauge of yarn which is easier to work, especially for knitting or crocheting. After this, I will transfer the bobbins into skeins, set the yarn by briefly soaking in cold water, and once dry, the final step is to wind it into balls, and then it’s ready to be woven, crocheted or knitted.
#spinningyarn
#plyingyarn
#arranopenstudios25
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Today, I’m all about the handspun yarn! Here are 4 types: Bluefaced Leicester and Dutch Spot from flocks raised on Kildonan, a blend of the two, and two balls of merino in pink and in yellow - other colours of merino will be available in house over the weekend. You might well find me spinning any of these if you visit.
#handspunyarn
#bluefacedleicester
#dutchspot
#arranopenstudios25
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If you visit me in my studio , number 4, here’s an example of something you might find me doing. These have been handdyed using daffodil, copper, blackcurrant, red onion, indigo extract and dogwood. What local plants would you suggest, or like to see being used?
Kat Sparshot.
#plantdyes #naturaldyeing #arranopenstudios25
#spinninganddyeingyarn
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Exhibition at Lochranza Inn
#drumadoon
#artandarchaeology
#lochranzainn
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