Fibre Spinning: Transforming Loose Fibres into Yarn

Spinning is an ancient craft that transforms loose fibres into yarn using a spindle or spinning wheel. As the spindle rotates, it twists the fibres together, creating a strong and continuous thread. This process, while seemingly simple, requires patience and practice. In this guide, we will focus on spinning with a drop spindle, a traditional and accessible tool for beginners and seasoned spinners alike.

Published:

March 27, 2025

Step-by-Step Guide to Spinning with a Drop Spindle

1. Tie Your Lead Yarn to the Spindle

Begin by taking a woollen yarn about 1.5 metres long and tying it securely to the spindle. Wrap it around the shaft, passing it through the hook, and leave approximately 40–50 cm free. Unravel the ends slightly so that the loose fibres can easily attach to the fibre you will be spinning.

2. Position Your Hands

Hold the spindle from the top of the shaft with your right hand. Your left hand will manage the fibre supply and pinch the point where the fibres twist into yarn. This pinching point is crucial in preventing the twist from moving up too quickly and tangling your fibre source.

3. Draft the Fibres

Once the spindle is suspended and spinning, move your right hand closer to your left hand to start drafting the fibres. Open your left thumb slightly and allow your right hand to gently pull and draft the fibres you want to incorporate into the yarn. As long as the spindle continues spinning, keep drafting the fibres to form an even thread.

4. Maintain the Spindle’s Rotation

As you draft, your spindle will begin to slow down and may even start spinning in the opposite direction. Before this happens, pinch the fibres again with your left thumb and let go of the spindle with your right hand to give it another spin. Maintaining consistent rotation is key to producing even yarn.

5. Repeat the Process to Spin More Yarn

This cycle of spinning the spindle, drafting the fibres, and creating yarn is repeated continuously until the yarn reaches approximately the width of your arms. At this point, you will need to stop and wind the yarn onto the spindle.

6. Wind the Yarn onto the Spindle

With the yarn stretched between your arms, remove it from the hook and start winding it onto the shaft. Use your right hand to wind while your left hand moves up and down to create a zig-zag pattern. This ensures that the yarn remains securely in place and does not slip off. Leave about 50 cm of free yarn, wind it onto the hook, and resume spinning.

7. Continue Spinning Until the Spindle is Full

As you continue spinning, your spindle will gradually become fuller and heavier. Once it reaches capacity, you will need to remove the yarn and prepare it for further processing, such as plying or setting the twist.

Fibre spinning is a rewarding skill that requires consistent practice. With time and patience, you will develop the ability to spin finer, more even yarn.

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