DIY Drop Spindles!

Shetland wool, Alpaca, Angora and silver sparkle!

Though I own a spinning wheel, I still like to use a drop spindle depending on what weight of yarn I'm wanting to make. Drop spindles can either be made (from odds and ends you probably already have) or purchased if you prefer. And there are a lot of reasons to use a drop spindle, even if you already have a spinning wheel.

For one thing, they are a lot more portable than a spinning wheel, though there are spinning wheels made for traveling. I like that a basic drop spindles can be easier on the wallet than a wheel, though there are some spindles out there made of exotic materials that can cost you as much as a wheel.

And of course, when you are brand-new to spinning, starting out with a drop spindle might be less confusing and/or overwhelming than a spinning wheel (though every person is different in their learning style, I started out with a spindle myself and am glad I did!)

So, here's a link to a tutorial that shows you how to make the basic CD and wood dowel spindle.

And thisYouTube video of a 'no cost' spindle (made from cardboard, a pencil and a hook) is another great option for those on a budget or if you want a simple, quick spindle:

Now, once you've made your spindle, hopefully you know what to do with it! And if not, here's a lovely tutorial with pictures on how to getting started spinning yarn on your drop spindle.

And for those of you who are more visual learners, here's a quick YouTube vid that explains the process nicely:

I hope you'll find this information useful whether or not you're new to the world of hand spinning yarn. And if you are a newbie, hopefull this is a good starting point for you!