I don't even have time to knit the stuff, let alone spin it!  However, I've always wanted to learn.  No problem, as I suffer from the Yarn Harlot's "Start-itis!"

I got a spinner kit at the Makerfaire a few weeks ago and although it came with instructions....I need some more help!  Anyone know of good spinning videos, too?

I am trying to learn as well.  I got my spindle and some roving at the Dixon lambtown fair.  I have some links tagged on delicious.  Here is the link to those:

del.icio.us/.../spinning%2Bvideo

Try "pre-drafting" the fiber a little, like they do when using a wheel....it makes it easier when you get to it.  Drafting is the big issue, when it comes to spinning....once you can master getting that fiber thinner without pulling it all the way off....it gets much easier!  I've been doing it a little over a month now...and its getting much easier.  

It actually got ALOT easier, once I purchased a "real" spindle.  The cd one was just too cumbersome.

Just took a spinning course this month.  This is a very cool refresher.  Need a kniddy knoddy though....

You tube has alot of videos of people showing you how to spin with a spindle or a wheel, and all facets of fiber preparations. It is how I learned.

i've been spinning for about 7 years now.  You'll get it.  If *I* could learn (self taught) anyone can, lol.

I agree with Indulgence, on both counts.  A CD spindle tends to be very light, and isn't exactly the best for the heavier, 'begginers yarn' that most folks who are just starting out end up with.  

I haven't looked at this file yet (thinking about using it as a base for teaching some Girl Scouts), but I had found that using the 'park and draft' method to help a lot while learning to draft.  Eventually, you'll be spining without having to stop the spindle for anything but winding on.  

Also, don't get discouraged if it comes out totally different than what you want.  Get the idea down first, then refine your technique to obtain the style you like.  

Probably two of my favorite sites are www.joyofhandspinning.com and http://www.ispindle.com/.  

HTH

If anyone has a Scottish Highlands festival near them, or a Renaissance, fair, the spinners, knitters, and weavers, abound there, it's a great source of hands on, and the demonstrators don't mind  sharing. That's where the bug really bit me bad. and that was 14 years ago.