"In pursuit of resurgence: Oberbayerin aims to boost traditional handicrafts' prominence"
Unleashing Creativity and Tradition: A Spinning Revival in Sindelsdorf
Take a spin through Sindelsdorf, where the soothing rhythm of spinning creates a unique community of craftspeople, enthusiasts, and learners. Originally sparked by the needles, the town's spinning movement is now led by Ute Mattern, a passionate spinner with a tenacious love for her craft.
A woman of many yarns, Ute can't remember when she first started knitting, her life seemingly woven around it. Her dedication transcended the needles, as she yearned to delve deeper into the origins of her beloved yarn. With parallels to her mother's unrealized dream, Ute embarked on a journey that led her back to the raw fibers.
Through a lucky encounter and a friend's advice, Ute discovered her first spinning wheel. Eager but inexperienced, she only managed to create frustration rather than yarn. Help came in the form of a spinning mentor, launching Ute into the world of spinning groups. Connecting with other enthusiasts in Deisenhofen and joining the Handspinning Guild, Ute found not only a passionate community but also a platform for her helping hand in the nationwide organization for over a decade.
Ute and her family moved to Sindelsdorf a year and a half ago, her heart longing for roots in the new town. Not only is her love for spinning the driving force behind the founding of the Sindelsdorf spinning group, but also her desire to contribute to the preservation of this cherished craft. Spinning is not merely a craft—it's a bridge that connects people. "I've met countless people through spinning," says Ute with a smile.
"Spinning is an integral part of our history," Ute emphasizes, sharing a smile. Humans have been plying fibers into yarn for thousands of years, an essential material for making clothing. In her own words, "It all started with a thread." What attracts Ute to spinning? "The movement, the grounding effect, the immense focus, and the concentration required unite to create a fascinating sensation."
Don't be fooled—spinning is highly addictive. Ute's passion has grown into a collection of over ten spinning wheels, each serving a unique purpose, be it courses, museum exhibitions, or cultural events. From experience and teaching, Ute knows that spinning engages not just the mind, but also the fingers. Initially, the thought process takes over, teaching the hands the mechanics. "Sometimes it takes one kilogram of wool to figure it out," she laughs.
The Sindelsdorf spinning group, dubbed the "Spinnkreis," isn't a course, but rather a gathering of enthusiasts who come together to draw inspiration, share knowledge, and support each other. Participants may watch as others process wool, learn to knit, or simply find solace in the calming presence of spinning. A donation box in the center of the group covers the cost of the community space graciously provided by the parish house.
In the Spinnkreis, politics and religion take a backseat. Instead, the conversations focus on topics like animal husbandry and types of wool, fostering an environment of positivity, relaxation, and shared experiences. Ute grew up with chickens and even had sheep to provide her with wool for her own creations. Today, Ute processes not only local wool but also silk, linen, and other materials. Her most prized wheel is a foldable, modern ball-bearing wheel that she can take with her on her global spinning adventures.
Ute hopes that the Spinnkreis will generate synergy and foster a community that supports one another. "We are on our way," she exclaims after the first meetings. "It's important that everyone has a good time," she emphasizes. "A break from the everyday, away from stress and negativity." Spinning is more than just a craft; it's a means to unwind, connect, and celebrate the rich history and tradition of a bygone era, alive and well in the heart of Sindelsdorf.
- With her passion for spinning expanding, Ute now curates a lifestyle that incorporates her love for fashion-and-beauty, seen in the hand-spun yarns she uses to knit her personal clothing.
- In an effort to preserve the traditional art of spinning, Ute has extended her home-and-garden projects to accommodate more spinning workshops, welcoming beginners and experienced spinners alike.
