Finally, I’m getting around to showing off one of my Christmas gifts – from my DH.  He didn’t know what this was for, but it was on my list, so it must be something that would make me happy, no matter how evil it looked!

Valkyrie wool combs

This is my set of Valkyrie wool combs.  These are the double row mini combs, and are just the right size for me.  The tines are 4 1/2″ long, and yes, they are as sharp as they look!

One of the combs on the pad, which I can clamp to a tabletop.

I decided to try them out on my Grand Champion fleece… here are a couple of locks to show you what it looks like raw and washed.

Before, and even before that!

And this is how wool combing is done (one person’s technique, anyway):

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae6aZwswrWs

I drew the top off without using a diz, but didn’t have any trouble making my top acceptably consistent.  I could always rummage around for a large washer to use if I felt inclined, but I’ll eventually make or buy a diz that is as pretty as it is useful.

L to R: Combed top, washed, raw

This picture really shows off the fineness of the wool.  It’s ‘finished’ for this stage, but there’s a lot more to do before it’s really a finished product!  First I’ll have to comb more wool, then spin it, ply the yarn, then maybe dye it, then knit whatever I decide to make.  And THEN I will have a finished item!

A closeup of the result.

When I showed off my creation to above-mentioned DH, he first looked pretty blank (it has been a while since Christmas), and began to nod slowly.  I saw his gaze flick from the combs in one hand, over to the puffy coil of wool I was holding out in my other hand, and up to my smiling face.

Only then did he smile back.