If you're new to the world of spinning and fiber preparation, you might think blending boards, drum carders, and hand carders are different versions of the same tool. While there is some overlap between them, they all have their own unique uses and limitations. This blog focuses solely on blending boards, because ironically, the term 'blending' is a bit of a misnomer and it's easy to get confused on exactly what they're used for. We’ve created a simple chart with the basic differences between blending boards, drum carders, and hand carders.  

Imagine a canvas where you can blend an array of fibers, colors, and textures, turning them into a completely custom creation that spins into yarn that is uniquely you. That's the blending board for you! 

A blending board is a flat, rectangular or square board covered with carding cloth, a surface with tiny wire teeth that helps to align fibers. When selecting a blending board, consider factors such as the size of the board, the type of carding cloth, and the handle's comfort. Smaller boards are ideal for portable spinning, while larger ones provide more surface area for intricate designs. Additionally, the tooth count on the carding cloth affects the yarn's texture. 

The biggest thing that differentiates blending boards from drum and hand carders is that blending boards cannot process fleece. In order to be used, the fibers must be opened up before they can be layered on the board. It may be easier to think of a blending board as a ‘mixing’ board because you use it by layering fibers on top of each other before you can roll it into a rolag. 



Because the fibers aren’t blended and only layered, a spinner has to be very careful when spinning the fibers so as not to spin each layer separately, particularly if there is a pronounced difference in the lengths of the fibers used.Blending boards are particularly excellent for creating layers of fiber and color to create interesting effects in the finished yarn.This layering technique is what makes them suitable for: 

Color Mixing: Colors can be laid out in stripes and the resulting rolag can be spun from the end to create a self-striping yarn with a smooth gradient effect. 

Texture Blending:  Blending boards are perfect for creating chunky and textured rolags that you can spin into art yarn. Combining short and long fibers or adding in textured elements like locks can create stunning results and it's also a great way to use up left over bits and bobs of fiber that would be difficult to use otherwise!

Different Fiber Types: Mix and match various fiber types to play with the characteristics of each. Combining soft merino with lustrous silk or adding a hint of mohair can lead to fascinating yarn combinations!

Using a blending board open up a world of creative expression for spinners, allowing them to craft personalized and unique yarns. Whether you're a seasoned spinner or just starting, the blending board is a tool that invites experimentation and innovation. Embrace the endless possibilities and let your imagination run wild as you blend fibers into beautiful, handcrafted yarns that tell a story with every twist and turn. The Woolery carries a few different blending boards which you can explore below:

Ashford Blending Board

$239.00

Ashford Blending Boards give yarn designers complete control to produce rolags with repeatable patterns. Add this yarn blending board to your cart today! Specifications: Rotating and...… read more

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Majacraft Blending Board

$259.99

Majacraft Blending Board Majacraft blending boards have several extra features to set them apart. The cloth is securely bonded to the board and there are...… read more

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Golden Fleece Table Carder - 72 tpi

$279.99

Imagine, one product for both carding and blending wool and other fibers. The Table carder allows you to card fibers with a single hand carder...… read more

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Louet Blending Board

$257.25

Louet Blending Board Using these boards as a fiber processing tool, allows one to produce rolags and batts consistently. The board has 72 teeth per...… read more

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Rosie's Blending Board

$175.00

Hand made in the USA of premium birch plywood, the Rosie's Blending Board features carding cloth specially fabricated for controlled blending and fiber preparation.  The...… read more

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