Spinning is an ancient textile art where fibers are drawn out and twisted into a yarn. The “spindle” was the first tool and the simplest method of spinning. After the invention of the spinning wheel and its increased use during the Industrial Revolution, mass production of yarn grew dramatically. However, handspinning remains a popular craft. Handspinners spin to control qualities not available in commercial products, for a sense of accomplishment, or for a connection to history and the land.
To spin you need 2 things: FIBER to spin, and a TOOL to introduce twist to the fibers. The tool we are going to work with is a “spindle”. It is a straight spike, about 10″, and usually made of wood. They are called a “drop” spindle because they spin while being held n the air by the prepared fiber you are spinning. A “whorl”, or weight of some kind, is either at the top or bottom of the spindle stick. The weight of the whorl keeps the spindle spinning while twisting the fibers forming the yarn. And finally, the twisted yarn is wound around the stick while the process is repeated over and over.
In the next session directions will be given to make your own drop spindle that actually works!!…with practice.
