Many spinners are gearing up for Spinzilla, a spinning event hosted by TNNA (The National Needlearts Association) that runs from October 1st through October 7th.  This global event is not only to challenge spinners to see who can spin the most yarn in a weeks time , but to challenge spinners of all levels to try new fibers, new spinning methods, new spinning tools (wheels and spindles), new techniques, and really just to bring awareness to the hand spinning community.  While this is truly a fun event, like Tour de Fleece it’s quite competitive in some groups but the end result is the celebration and joy of spinning.   

Key Dates 
August 1 – 30: Team registration 
September 4 – 27: Spinner registration 
October 1 – 7: Spinning Week 
October 19: Yardage Results Posted

Speaking of competitive, Kate Larson’s post on Spinzilla: Tips for Spinning Under Pressure is very good to read, especially if this is your first time joining Spinzilla.  I have always loved Kate’s approach to spinning.  She shares the best tips and techniques!

Don’t forget to take breaks, stretch, and take a deep breath every once in a while. Release the Spinzilla stress! ~ Kate Larson

Anne Merrow also has written a great article, 5 Ways A Busy Spinner Can Rock Spinzilla. While I love Anne’s approach, I have joined several Spinzilla events since it started and usually joined as a Rogue member.  I like to take my time and spin for the pure enjoyment of spinning and not to be rushed.  I have found that if you join certain teams you are trying to keep up with the teams spinning goals, making it not only challenging but exhausting, especially if you work.  

So just do it. Sign up for Spinzilla. Challenge yourself to find a group, and remind yourself of this: You deserve to be there just as much as anyone. ~ Anne Merrow

Be sure to check out the Spinzilla Ravelry Group too.  This is a great place to check out teams, tips, fiber sales and more.

Links to great articles from past years:

• The Seven Days of Spinzilla – Elizabeth Prose
• Ply Like An Eagle – Jacey Boggs
• Fiber Prep For Production Spinning – Beth Smith
• Productive Spinning – Sara Lamb
• Spinzilla: How Much Fiber Do I Need – Kate Larson

Due to so much going on in my life, I have opted to sit out this years Spinzilla but plan to cheer on all the spinners who are competing in this fun event.  Oh course the more I read online about Spinzilla, I may change my mind and join as a Rogue Spinner again.