Years ago. I was so poor and eager to learn spinning I made a drop spindle out of a whittled stick and a plastic drink lid and tape. Wasn't pretty, but it worked! You do not have to spend lots of money to spin (though i love my spinning wheel now) and you can create beautiful yarns all the same. Drop Spindles are so wonderful!
Very recently my ADHD told me that I need to learn all things about making thread/ yarn/ weaving. So far, these videos have been the best at explaining the what's and the why's. And the videos are so charming and engaging I'm doing one or zero things while I'm watching.
I followed this tutorial from beginning to end as a first time spinner- literally my first skein of yarn from a bag of (free, of course) raw wool that I decided I was going to process myself. This made the spinning feel so easy! I am now the proud owner of a skein of really crappy yarn (seriously I'm so proud), and this video made it frustration-free. Thank you Jillian! I look forward to getting more practice. Because I'm such a first timer, I did make the small substitution of using a plastic tupperware lid to wind my single-ply yarn onto and then again as a makeshift niddy noddy, but now that I've completed my first project I'll probably invest in both to make my life easier.
You should be proud! that is awesome. =] If you are still looking for one, I made a niddy noddy out of some pvc pipe with removable caps so I could get the yarn off more easily. cost me about $5 total, can be submerged in water with no issues and works a treat!
@@sassysuzy4u For beginners, you'll spin a spindle-full of yarn, then what? You wind it into a skein using a niddy-noddy. Let's make one. You'll need about 5-6' of pvc plumbers pipe, 2 T-connectors, 7 end caps, and a 5-way elbow fitting, all for 25mm/1" pipe. Cut a length off about 25cm long. Put the middle of each T on either end. Cut 8 lengths of pipe 10cm/4" long. Guess where they go? 4 in the c ross-bars of the 5-way fitting, 4 in each of the T-bracket ends. What's left goes in the middle socket of the 5-way. You should have one H-shaped niddy-noddy, and one spindle holder. Put an end cap on each cross-leg of the holder, leaving the top open for the spindle, then put the end caps on the niddy-noddy. Woah, there's one missing! No there isn't, it's left off to make removing the skein easier. Use a knife or sandpaper to scrape the rough bits off the open tubes. Now twist one end of the niddy-noddy so it's cross-wise to the other. If you need to collapse the niddy-noddy, just pull the cross-bars off. So, how do you use it? If the yarn's on a bobbin, put it on a Lazy Kate, if on a spindle, put it in in the holder. Put the same lark's-head knot in the end of the yarn you used to put the leader onto the spindle, and pop it over the open leg of the niddy-noddy. Hold it roughly in the middle with your lead hand, and start to feed the yarn with the other. Over the cross-bar at the other end, back to the other crossbar at the first end where you started, back to the start, round and round and round. Each loop's a meter. You won't notice it, but to an observer, the ends of the holder nod up and down regularly. Which just leaves the niddy...who's holding it. So, you've run out of wool, and the niddy's full. Snip 16x 6" lengths off, and tie one around each part of the skein, near the cross-bars, using the same lark's-head knot (fold in half, loop around the skein, put the tail through the eye). Find the open tube, stick your hand through the opposite gap, and grasp the shaft. Now ease the hank off the open crossbar, and you'll have the empty niddy-noddy with the skein hanging from your arm. Put the beast aside, grasp the loop with both hands, and twist into a hank - if you stick one eye through the other, it won't come undone. Good for storage, dyeing, whatever. One reason to do this is to allow the inevitable slight differences in tightness of twist.to even out, leave it at least overnight before processing further. A skein-holder will then hold-it when you wind onto a ball-holder. Or you can recruit a family member!
I use a pair of carders to open the wool out. They make all the difference, however far you prepped the fleece: I want a nice flooofy, airy rolag to work from. What's a rolag? The combed fibre you're going to spin from. Whether on a distaff, or loose in your lap, you'll find one end gets gently pulled by your lead wrist, while the fingers control the volume fed, and the other hand controls the twist. Pinch to build up, release so some spins up the dozen or so fibres coming out of the lead hand, which has pinched down to stop the spin getting into the rollag. Both hands come together, the follower hand draws the next length through the lead hand, and around we go. If you've got an airy feedstock, you can easily allow more into the spin. If you've got a more condensed roving, it's the devil's own job.
This video was an accident. I didn't even know this sort of thing existed. I live near miles and miles of cotton fields. Bails fall off of trucks and I never stopped because I never knew this was possible. I love cotton. And I would love to make my own yarn!!!! Thank you!!!!
I just watched your video because I bought a beginner drop spindle kit. Their institutions were a little confusing and they didn't tell you what to do after you spun your single. They did tell you to watch videos to learn how to use it. The written instructions were confusing because I had no idea what they were talking about. I feel more confident to try now. If I had tried after reading they're instructions and had succeeded I would have ended up with a single ply yarn on the spindle and no idea what to do next.
I love your tutorials 💜 Just aquired a small flock of Icelandic sheep...restoring my grandmother s Québec production wheel. You've inspired me. The way you convey information is easy and clear...you are a fantastic teacher. Thank you.
I’ve watched so many tutorials on spinning, but yours is the only one that made the whole process make enough sense that I feel like I can jump in and try it. Thank you so much for this great video!
I met my best friend while she was spinning wool with a drop spindle. She taught me how to do it and this skill has blessed my life. It's great to have skills. What fun!
Gasp, I'm spinning!! I watched a bunch of your videos, tried it out, and it worked! I used an old wooden spoon and some mixed-breed wool in fluoro safety orange (so I wouldn't get precious about it). Now I have some (lumpy) yarn. So satisfying! 😃
I have been knitting for over 20 years, and have just recently discovered how amazing it is to work with unspun wool. Your video is so helpful, and it also fills my heart with a ridiculous amount of joy to see your face light up when talking about your passion. I don't think I can wait to buy a spindle anymore after watching this, so I might be creating my own tonight. Thank you!!
Wow, lovely tutorial! Way back when I was in art school, my most challenging class was "fiber and dye" which ought to have been worth 6 credits not just 3. But anyway, we learned about all (most) fibers, had to learn to spin w a drop spindle, and a spinning wheel, we also had to learn all the dye methods and materials, from the most industrial to the most natural, and dye, spin, and create things with the yarn!! It was actually thrilling! I did make yarn for a couple years afterwards, but when I gave the spinning wheel to the person who'd lent one to me, a friend made me an amazing and huge drop spindle of wood. hand turned the wheel and everything. I'm so happy to see the yarn that people are making now, so much wonderful stuff and I just love having found your channel, you are such a good teacher!
I loved hearing about your first spindle experience and how it was a self-made piece. I first learned how to knit on pencils because we didn't have any needles and my mom needed to find something to keep me entertained on long days! 15 years later and I love knitting more than ever! Your videos are so approachable and inviting and really are making me want to try my hand at spinning. With this tutorial, maybe I will!
My mother crocheted, but she didn't knit. The first time I ever witnessed knitting, I was 4 years old and I spent the day at my babysitter's house, watching the magic of her making a green knitted something-or-other (possibly the back of a sweater). I saw how she worked the needles one way going across a row, then her method changed on the next (knitting and purling). By the end of the day, when my parents brought me home, I desperately wanted to try knitting. I'd already figured it out: since I had no knitting needles, I could use pencils! I asked my father for two pencils, but he only gave me one. "I need another pencil!" He didn't understand, but he finally handed me a second pencil. I immediately started "air knitting," moving the pencils exactly as I'd spent hours seeing my babysitter do. Then I switched to "air purling" -- with my father staring at me as if I'd taken leave of my senses. "What ARE you doing?" he asked. "Knitting!" I said proudly. Unfortunately, nobody ever allowed me to have any yarn; if they had, I could have learned to knit at age four. Decades later, I bought a copy of "Knitting for Dummies" and finally began knitting at age 54!!! Now, after seeing this fantastic video, I get the feeling that I could actually MAKE some yarn, although today I'd use real needles to knit with. 😺💕🐾
The first time I tried spinning was cat hair on a drop spindle made of a pencil stuck into a potato. I kid you not. I didn’t get much of a yarn, but I released a demon! I looked into buying a spindle, which came by post with a small, complementary collection of tops. I was off. BTW I prefer to make my own drop spindles - I’ve lost count of the number. Niddy-noddies,made them, Lazy Kate’s, too, but now I spin two spindles with approximately the same length of single, pop them into to separate medium sized carrier bags (the supermarket’s cheapest or tie handle freezer bags) and hang the loaded bags on door a handle, then, using a third spindle, I ply, spinning the opposite direction to that in which I spun the singles. I always spin singles clockwise and ply anticlockwise (counterclockwise in US speak 😉), but that’s so I don’t get it wrong when spinning many skeins of the same fleece for the same project!
Hello JillianEve. Greetings from Germany. Today RUclips offered me this video. How much luck die I have? Since over half a year I'm thinking, about spinning. I have a big bag of merinowool. Before 15 years I tried to felt, wet and with needles. But thats Not my pair of shoes. And this video I rushed through our House and Garden and crafted my first Spindel, from a plantstick, a wooden brick from my Kids, a hook and some hot glue. And it works!!!!🎉 I can't belive it! It is so easy! I'm so happy, that I saw your video. Thank you!❤ (Pleased excuse my mistakes. I hope you understand, what I want to say.😅)
Thank you so much! I'm writing a short story about a literal spinster, and I was looking for a crash course in drop spindles. You not only set me straight immediately, but now I kind of want to spin my own yarn XD
I want to get into spinning and starting with a spindle seems…a responsible way to start ($$$ otherwise!) I was so worried about how plying would work on a spindle. It’s much easier than I thought! Thank you.
Thank you so much for this fantastic tutorial. I started spinning for the first time today while watching it. I was a textile artist specialised in embroidery and wet felting and my stash is huge. Years ago I had to move back to my hometown in Europe when I was diagnosed with a long term disability and needed affordable medical care. Few people here have heard of felting or care to learn about it. As I got older and the illness became more debilitating, I tried to sell, give away my stash. It wasn’t wanted. I recently moved to a small flat, barely room enough for the carder! I decided I would not waste all that beautiful fibre. I ordered a louët top whorl spindle, it arrived today. My sister dropped-off some tops that were in storage, and here I am, watching you as I spin for the first time ever. Thank you again, your tutorials are great and you have saved an artist’s soul from giving-up on arts and crafts and therefore my entire life, which , in spite of the teenage-ish avatar, is running towards her mid-fifties... Well inching towards, can’t really run anymore, so welcome spinning and creating again! 🥰
Yes, I agree as well. I just made my own spindle and I wanted to see more of a demo. You outlined the process and how to troubleshoot errors beautifully. Thank you!
Hallelujah for a beginning to end video! Thank you so much. You make it seem achievable for a complete newbie! I have my first spindle and roving arriving in the mail soon and I am SO excited to get started. Fingers crossed that I’ll have a decent ball of yarn to present to my mum for her birthday in Feb! With your help I think it’s achievable! ❤️
Thank you for using that particular spindle. It is so cool! Also , great information and demonstration. It all moves along just fast enough that it's not drawn out but slow enough that its clear.
I came here from a primitive technology video were the host was using a drop spindle to make bark fiber yarn to then weave into a mat. I couldn't figure out how the spindle was working from what I could see in his video but your tutorial cleared my confusion right up. Thank you.
Thank goodness! I was searching the comments to find someone else who recognized it!!! The traditional colour, too, at least 'round here! Having to use a 45 insert made playing the old records a little more special :) Hi from New York!
I will have to watch again because at first I wasn't sure what was going on. But I get it now. And this could change my financial problems when wanting new yarn. Yes and I'll be so much happier. I'm sure of it.
thanks for the video, I grew up as a shepherd and had to do this as a kid, now as an adult, I have been asked to bring my fiber art knowledge for a demo. after all those years I completely forgot how to drop the spin so thank you for reminding me!
Finally!!! After watching a bazillion tutorials, and being so frustrated, this was the video that actually put all the pieces together. I bought a drop spindle to see if I liked spinning (before committing to an expensive wheel) and I am so glad I did. My first yarn isn't the best, but due to your excellent tutorial, there actually IS a ball of yarn. Many, many thanks!
I'd given up on spinning a few years back. I have a few drop spindles and two wheels. I took my granddaughter last weekend to a Fiber Festival near me and got reenergized to give spinning a try again. I've watched two of your drop spindle videos and really enjoyed them and think I'm ready to give it another try. I also bought the Nano 2 eSpinner.
Hi Eve. I am Irene from Greece. I have been weaving for some years, and as you said, I also like getting to know more krafts. Lately I realy am thinking about spinning and dying. Your tutorials are very detailed and you give me answers to questions I had. Keep up the good work.
You have inspired me to get my drop spindle back out of hiding and finish spinning the wool I bought ages ago to learn this craft. You have are a great teacher!
Thank you so much for this tutorial! It really helps that you go through finishing the yarn. I can't tell you how many tutorials I have watched about spinning with a drop spindle, and they all end in the middle of the project.
I know this is an old video, but I wanted to comment to say your videos got me interested in spinning, and today I bought my first drop spindle. I'm so happy and excited to engage with this ancient craft and learn how to draft yarn. Thank you for making your content and doing what you do!
Thank you so much for this GREAT tutorial! I can't wait to watch your other ones! You are a terrific teacher and you're so pretty. You look very much like you could be speaking to us from the 40's, you've got that "glamorous" look.😊 ( maybe it's the red lipstick?) Anyway, such fun! Even my son wants to help! He said " I'll hold my hands out, holding the yarn, like in a movie, while you wrap a yarn ball" Maybe we'll both learn how to knit next. Thanks again! Have a lovely day! 🌻
So I have had a drop spindle for many years. I bought it before I ever bought a spinning wheel because I wanted to make sure that I was SURE I liked making yarn before spending hundreds of dollars on a wheel. I hated the spindle. I couldn't get it right no matter how many tries I did. I bought the spinning wheel anyway and loved it (still do) Flash to a month ago. I find this tutorial and it just CLICKS. All of a sudden my spindle is in my hand I am making so much yarn on it. Spinning singles and plying them become such a great experience. I bring my spindle to work now and spin up batts I've blended on my drum carder during slow times and lunch breaks. I'm teaching my sister. I just bought myself a Turkish spindle and can not wait to try it out. Super long story short (too late) Thank you! Thank you so so much. You have done such a great job with your tutorial and you have me inspired and creating daily. Thank you thank you.
Just wanted to say - I saw this video last December (2021) after my MIL gave me a fleece batt I had no idea how to use. I googled for a drop spindle video, watched yours and got started. Rabbit hole indeed... only a month later I had an EEW nano and started natural dyeing... lol. Thanks for your great video. :)
This is a great video, thank you! 🥰 I’ve had some of my gran’s old spindles for years and had no idea what to do with them, but I’ve managed to spin some of my home produced longwool fleece with this! Very excited 😍
Excellent teaching and clear demonstration. Have just successfully made my first (quite small skein) of 2ply! So glad I came across this tutorial. Thank you!
Best beginner tutorial I have found for the drop spindle! Others claim to be beginner friendly but act as if you have tried already. I have tried, but lots tangling and breaking and frustration! Thanks for teaching me. I eill now share what I learned with my daughter. So fun! And thank you for sharing your hat, I had wondered if I could make any usable yarn... Very encouraging! P.S. Now I know that Snow White liked to spin and what she looked like when she grew up. Just beautiful! Keep spinning, keep shining! Proverbs 31
Have you read Respect the Spindle by Abby Franquemont? I'm reading it now and it's awesome. It's helped me understand how to spin on a spindle almost as much as your tutorials have. Thank you for these videos!
I can't thank you enough for all your videos and live chats!!! I just spinned my first section of merino top on my new Kromski. I am intrigued that so much of this is by feel. I'm very tactile, so this fits me so well. So sorry I didn't take up spinning earlier. It's my new meditation. I must have watched this video 5 times.
This is the first time I have seen someone explain the entire process beginning to end! Amazing, thank you!!! I have tried spinning about a year ago, filled a spindle, and then didn't know what to do next :D so it's just been sitting on my shelf ever since. I'm so excited to try again! Thank you for showing me the way back to the magic of spinning ❤
I was looking up how to make a drop spindle and I came across your video after a successfully making my own and now out of scrap yarn I've made my own batting! And hopefully with your tutorial I'm going to make some beautiful yarn. This is amazing❤ you explain everything so well
I absolutely am committed to learning how to spin. I have a spindle and fiber. I keep trying but it is not working for me. I wish I lived closer so I could take lessons from you. Not discouraged just a little frustrated. I do love your videos and how thoroughly you explain everything. It just may be one of those things that I have to keep trying until I get it. I would settle for even a krappy yarn right now compared to what I have. Thank you for your videos.
I watched this video so many times, My hubby thinks you’re a bad influence. But I did it! The first try is ugly snd uneven, the second was better. And because you lovely RUclipsrs share your knowledge I will be able to learn more. Thank you!
Hello Eve, this is the first time a write a comment to you. thank you very much for this tutorial. You have motivated me to buy my first spindle a Top drop spindle and some Coridale top. I started in August this year and have spinned about 8 oz of fiber. I am still drafting and parking because my spins don't last enough for me to draft while it spins. My single is pretty even with some areas of extra fine yarn and others a little thicker. I also bought the Respect the Spindle book by Abby Franquemont and am enjoying reading it. Thanks again. I am now considering buying a spinning wheel in the future, but for now I am enjoying using my drop spindle. I still need to learn to ply my single because it is way too thin to use as is.
I stumbled on to your videos because being a beginning crocheter i was curious what the big skein of showstopper yarn at hobby lobby was used for. Well now not even watching two full videos i am hooked lol. thank you
Lovely tutorial video! You're amazing. I used to teach drop spindle spinning and I delighted at all the tips & tricks you provided. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and passion! Take care!
Thank you so much! I just couldn’t get how to use the drop spindle but after watching your tutorial it just clicked, and now I just want to spin all the time. Brilliant tutorial 👏
If you're wearing a long sleeve shirt you can tuck the excess fiber into the sleeve. I've also used small bungee cords as a shoulder distaff, especially when walking around and spinning
Love your delivery, your expertise, your teaching skills. All around, you are so professional and lovely to watch. Thank you for being my favorite fiber creator.
Thanks for your video. I wish you were on a couple of years ago. I struggle with learning on my own. I’m going to watch all of your videos now that I have a full size spinning wheel. Blessings! You are awesome!
Hello! I was listening in on Granny Dee’s live yesterday while she was introducing you to the group, so I came over to your channel to check out your spinning videos. I have a 16 year old Persian cat named Rusty (named after the rusty tones in his fur which is beautiful), and we have to shave him a couple of times a year or he gets very matted. Call me crazy, but I have been saving his fur. That’s what yarn/fiber lovers do, right? It is so fluffy and his underfur has that texture that would make it purrfect (see what I did there lol) for spinning into yarn. I want to have some yarn or make something to remember him by, because he is very old, we don’t know how much longer he is going to live. I do not have a spindle, but I do have access to a 3D printer at the school where I work. I am totally going to print a spindle to use and try to spin his fur now that I have watched this video! I also have a RUclips channel and whenever I post that video, I will give you total credit for teaching me how to spin! Wish me luck!!!
Have been dealing with a wrist injury recently so couldn't crochet and knit, but discovered yarn spinning and immediately wanted to try it. I've read and watched a few guides and this is the only one to make sense, you're very cheerful too which makes for an engaging tutorial! Drop spindle and some roving coming in a few days so I'm looking forwards to having a go; many thanks!
I have a long hair Ragdoll cat that I get really soft white fluffy cotton ball like hair when I comb him. I hate to waste it so have been bagging it. I want to make some yarn to crochet a beaded bracelet. Your tutorial is so clear in the instructions and I feel confident I will be able to create yarn following your video.
Phew. What a good hour. I tried to do it all at once for like 20-30min in a supported spindle. Than I gave up and tried this. After an hour or so I get pretty consistent yarn. It's thicker than my hair, but still, mostly thinner than the yarn I weave with. (I guess its a bit thicker than 1/4 mm, because in my tablet weaving I get approx. 1mm per card = 4 strands of yarn. This single is thinner. But when I ply it, I am convinced it will be thicker) Anyway. Often enough it gets so thin, that it breaks on me, because of the built up twist. Oopsie. But it's fun. My first try is with cotton, since I am allergic to wool. I got myself a samplet package of different plant fibers and cotton seemed to be the most and the most inexpensive choice. I am looking forward to plying and weaving this wonky beginners yarn :D
I love your videos. You have such a nice scientific approach to everything, all the while being able to explain things so that everyone understands the points you are making.
I'm joining TdF this year, and it'll be my first ever time spinning! I ordered a mini spindle thats painted to look like a mushroom and 2 ounces of BFL, i'm very excited! Thank you so much for this tutorial, It's incredibly clear and answering questions I didnt even know I had!
I LOOOOOVE your video!!! I’m so excited to get my first drop spindle kit that I ordered. I have definitely subscribed to your channel!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!! 💙💙
Thank you for a succinct, yet complete, tutorial that takes the mystery out of spinning with spindle. You surely have saved me a lot of time and boosted my confidence in starting my first try. Thank you! Love the hat!
![Natanael Cano - Amor Eterno [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EO4prCs6WpM/mqdefault.jpg)
![KSI - Thick Of It (feat. Trippie Redd) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/At8v_Yc044Y/mqdefault.jpg)
Years ago. I was so poor and eager to learn spinning I made a drop spindle out of a whittled stick and a plastic drink lid and tape. Wasn't pretty, but it worked! You do not have to spend lots of money to spin (though i love my spinning wheel now) and you can create beautiful yarns all the same. Drop Spindles are so wonderful!
Very recently my ADHD told me that I need to learn all things about making thread/ yarn/ weaving. So far, these videos have been the best at explaining the what's and the why's. And the videos are so charming and engaging I'm doing one or zero things while I'm watching.
Same.
The tutorial I never knew I needed. Thanks ADHD!
Same. I went from sudden special interest in crochet into watching videos of yarn making.
Same ! I want a specific colour yarn and couldn't find it. So now I mist make it 😂
🤣🤣🤣🤣 this is 💯 me at this very moment.
Did it help I have adhd it’s difficult
I followed this tutorial from beginning to end as a first time spinner- literally my first skein of yarn from a bag of (free, of course) raw wool that I decided I was going to process myself. This made the spinning feel so easy! I am now the proud owner of a skein of really crappy yarn (seriously I'm so proud), and this video made it frustration-free. Thank you Jillian! I look forward to getting more practice. Because I'm such a first timer, I did make the small substitution of using a plastic tupperware lid to wind my single-ply yarn onto and then again as a makeshift niddy noddy, but now that I've completed my first project I'll probably invest in both to make my life easier.
You should be proud! that is awesome. =] If you are still looking for one, I made a niddy noddy out of some pvc pipe with removable caps so I could get the yarn off more easily. cost me about $5 total, can be submerged in water with no issues and works a treat!
@@sassysuzy4u For beginners, you'll spin a spindle-full of yarn, then what? You wind it into a skein using a niddy-noddy. Let's make one.
You'll need about 5-6' of pvc plumbers pipe, 2 T-connectors, 7 end caps, and a 5-way elbow fitting, all for 25mm/1" pipe. Cut a length off about 25cm long. Put the middle of each T on either end. Cut 8 lengths of pipe 10cm/4" long. Guess where they go? 4 in the c ross-bars of the 5-way fitting, 4 in each of the T-bracket ends. What's left goes in the middle socket of the 5-way. You should have one H-shaped niddy-noddy, and one spindle holder. Put an end cap on each cross-leg of the holder, leaving the top open for the spindle, then put the end caps on the niddy-noddy. Woah, there's one missing! No there isn't, it's left off to make removing the skein easier. Use a knife or sandpaper to scrape the rough bits off the open tubes. Now twist one end of the niddy-noddy so it's cross-wise to the other.
If you need to collapse the niddy-noddy, just pull the cross-bars off.
So, how do you use it? If the yarn's on a bobbin, put it on a Lazy Kate, if on a spindle, put it in in the holder. Put the same lark's-head knot in the end of the yarn you used to put the leader onto the spindle, and pop it over the open leg of the niddy-noddy. Hold it roughly in the middle with your lead hand, and start to feed the yarn with the other. Over the cross-bar at the other end, back to the other crossbar at the first end where you started, back to the start, round and round and round. Each loop's a meter. You won't notice it, but to an observer, the ends of the holder nod up and down regularly. Which just leaves the niddy...who's holding it.
So, you've run out of wool, and the niddy's full. Snip 16x 6" lengths off, and tie one around each part of the skein, near the cross-bars, using the same lark's-head knot (fold in half, loop around the skein, put the tail through the eye). Find the open tube, stick your hand through the opposite gap, and grasp the shaft. Now ease the hank off the open crossbar, and you'll have the empty niddy-noddy with the skein hanging from your arm. Put the beast aside, grasp the loop with both hands, and twist into a hank - if you stick one eye through the other, it won't come undone. Good for storage, dyeing, whatever.
One reason to do this is to allow the inevitable slight differences in tightness of twist.to even out, leave it at least overnight before processing further. A skein-holder will then hold-it when you wind onto a ball-holder. Or you can recruit a family member!
I use a pair of carders to open the wool out. They make all the difference, however far you prepped the fleece: I want a nice flooofy, airy rolag to work from. What's a rolag? The combed fibre you're going to spin from. Whether on a distaff, or loose in your lap, you'll find one end gets gently pulled by your lead wrist, while the fingers control the volume fed, and the other hand controls the twist. Pinch to build up, release so some spins up the dozen or so fibres coming out of the lead hand, which has pinched down to stop the spin getting into the rollag. Both hands come together, the follower hand draws the next length through the lead hand, and around we go.
If you've got an airy feedstock, you can easily allow more into the spin. If you've got a more condensed roving, it's the devil's own job.
im watching this video as prep before making my first attempt tomorrow, hopefully I will have just as much success 🤞
It's not "crappy" yarn--it's INTERESTINGLY TEXTURED yarn. It's all in how you look at it!
This video was an accident. I didn't even know this sort of thing existed. I live near miles and miles of cotton fields. Bails fall off of trucks and I never stopped because I never knew this was possible. I love cotton. And I would love to make my own yarn!!!! Thank you!!!!
Even though this video came out 4 years ago; I still like it .
I just watched your video because I bought a beginner drop spindle kit. Their institutions were a little confusing and they didn't tell you what to do after you spun your single. They did tell you to watch videos to learn how to use it. The written instructions were confusing because I had no idea what they were talking about. I feel more confident to try now. If I had tried after reading they're instructions and had succeeded I would have ended up with a single ply yarn on the spindle and no idea what to do next.
I gave up after no more than 3 seconds years ago because one one mentioned the park and draft thing to start off. Thank you so much for this tutorial!
the only spinning video i've watched where you actually explain what to do with your yarn after it's spun!! thank you!!
I love your tutorials 💜
Just aquired a small flock of Icelandic sheep...restoring my grandmother s
Québec production wheel. You've inspired me.
The way you convey information is easy and clear...you are a fantastic teacher. Thank you.
As a Canook, I approve this message!
Seriously ❤️
I’ve watched so many tutorials on spinning, but yours is the only one that made the whole process make enough sense that I feel like I can jump in and try it. Thank you so much for this great video!
instablaster
I met my best friend while she was spinning wool with a drop spindle. She taught me how to do it and this skill has blessed my life. It's great to have skills. What fun!
Gasp, I'm spinning!! I watched a bunch of your videos, tried it out, and it worked! I used an old wooden spoon and some mixed-breed wool in fluoro safety orange (so I wouldn't get precious about it). Now I have some (lumpy) yarn. So satisfying! 😃
Spinning is my newest hyper fixation... I've been binge watching spinning videos. This is mesmerizing and I cannot wait to try it.
I have been knitting for over 20 years, and have just recently discovered how amazing it is to work with unspun wool. Your video is so helpful, and it also fills my heart with a ridiculous amount of joy to see your face light up when talking about your passion. I don't think I can wait to buy a spindle anymore after watching this, so I might be creating my own tonight. Thank you!!
Not letting the twist up into the drafting area is where I was getting hung up. Thank you SO much for making this tutorial!
Wow, lovely tutorial! Way back when I was in art school, my most challenging class was "fiber and dye" which ought to have been worth 6 credits not just 3. But anyway, we learned about all (most) fibers, had to learn to spin w a drop spindle, and a spinning wheel, we also had to learn all the dye methods and materials, from the most industrial to the most natural, and dye, spin, and create things with the yarn!! It was actually thrilling! I did make yarn for a couple years afterwards, but when I gave the spinning wheel to the person who'd lent one to me, a friend made me an amazing and huge drop spindle of wood. hand turned the wheel and everything. I'm so happy to see the yarn that people are making now, so much wonderful stuff and I just love having found your channel, you are such a good teacher!
I loved hearing about your first spindle experience and how it was a self-made piece. I first learned how to knit on pencils because we didn't have any needles and my mom needed to find something to keep me entertained on long days! 15 years later and I love knitting more than ever! Your videos are so approachable and inviting and really are making me want to try my hand at spinning. With this tutorial, maybe I will!
My mother crocheted, but she didn't knit. The first time I ever witnessed knitting, I was 4 years old and I spent the day at my babysitter's house, watching the magic of her making a green knitted something-or-other (possibly the back of a sweater). I saw how she worked the needles one way going across a row, then her method changed on the next (knitting and purling). By the end of the day, when my parents brought me home, I desperately wanted to try knitting. I'd already figured it out: since I had no knitting needles, I could use pencils! I asked my father for two pencils, but he only gave me one. "I need another pencil!" He didn't understand, but he finally handed me a second pencil. I immediately started "air knitting," moving the pencils exactly as I'd spent hours seeing my babysitter do. Then I switched to "air purling" -- with my father staring at me as if I'd taken leave of my senses. "What ARE you doing?" he asked. "Knitting!" I said proudly. Unfortunately, nobody ever allowed me to have any yarn; if they had, I could have learned to knit at age four. Decades later, I bought a copy of "Knitting for Dummies" and finally began knitting at age 54!!!
Now, after seeing this fantastic video, I get the feeling that I could actually MAKE some yarn, although today I'd use real needles to knit with. 😺💕🐾
The first time I tried spinning was cat hair on a drop spindle made of a pencil stuck into a potato. I kid you not. I didn’t get much of a yarn, but I released a demon! I looked into buying a spindle, which came by post with a small, complementary collection of tops. I was off. BTW I prefer to make my own drop spindles - I’ve lost count of the number. Niddy-noddies,made them, Lazy Kate’s, too, but now I spin two spindles with approximately the same length of single, pop them into to separate medium sized carrier bags (the supermarket’s cheapest or tie handle freezer bags) and hang the loaded bags on door a handle, then, using a third spindle, I ply, spinning the opposite direction to that in which I spun the singles. I always spin singles clockwise and ply anticlockwise (counterclockwise in US speak 😉), but that’s so I don’t get it wrong when spinning many skeins of the same fleece for the same project!
Hello JillianEve.
Greetings from Germany. Today RUclips offered me this video. How much luck die I have? Since over half a year I'm thinking, about spinning. I have a big bag of merinowool. Before 15 years I tried to felt, wet and with needles. But thats Not my pair of shoes.
And this video I rushed through our House and Garden and crafted my first Spindel, from a plantstick, a wooden brick from my Kids, a hook and some hot glue. And it works!!!!🎉 I can't belive it! It is so easy! I'm so happy, that I saw your video. Thank you!❤
(Pleased excuse my mistakes. I hope you understand, what I want to say.😅)
I never had any interest in spinning until my best friend sent me this video. Now I need wool! Obsessed!
Thank you so much for explaining how to ply!
I hadn’t seen the park and draft method before 😌 Now I don’t feel as intimidated to start learning with a drop spindle. Thank you!
You can do it! So much of spinning is just practice, and more practice. 😊🧶💜
Thank you so much! I'm writing a short story about a literal spinster, and I was looking for a crash course in drop spindles. You not only set me straight immediately, but now I kind of want to spin my own yarn XD
"Look at that! We're spinning!" I love that. So sweet. Made me smile.
after having my drop spindle for a year, you helped me finally figure out how to use it! THANK YOU
Glad I could help! Happy spinning!
I want to get into spinning and starting with a spindle seems…a responsible way to start ($$$ otherwise!) I was so worried about how plying would work on a spindle. It’s much easier than I thought! Thank you.
This tutorial started my 4yr old and I on our spinning journey and now we are hooked! Thank you so much 💜
This is the best tutorial I've seen! I just started spinning yesterday. This answered a lot of my questions! Thank you 🥰
I'm so glad! Happy spinning! 🧶🐑✨
Same here!
I second this!
Thank you so much for this fantastic tutorial. I started spinning for the first time today while watching it. I was a textile artist specialised in embroidery and wet felting and my stash is huge. Years ago I had to move back to my hometown in Europe when I was diagnosed with a long term disability and needed affordable medical care. Few people here have heard of felting or care to learn about it. As I got older and the illness became more debilitating, I tried to sell, give away my stash. It wasn’t wanted. I recently moved to a small flat, barely room enough for the carder!
I decided I would not waste all that beautiful fibre. I ordered a louët top whorl spindle, it arrived today. My sister dropped-off some tops that were in storage, and here I am, watching you as I spin for the first time ever.
Thank you again, your tutorials are great and you have saved an artist’s soul from giving-up on arts and crafts and therefore my entire life, which , in spite of the teenage-ish avatar, is running towards her mid-fifties...
Well inching towards, can’t really run anymore, so welcome spinning and creating again! 🥰
Yes, I agree as well. I just made my own spindle and I wanted to see more of a demo. You outlined the process and how to troubleshoot errors beautifully. Thank you!
Hallelujah for a beginning to end video! Thank you so much. You make it seem achievable for a complete newbie! I have my first spindle and roving arriving in the mail soon and I am SO excited to get started. Fingers crossed that I’ll have a decent ball of yarn to present to my mum for her birthday in Feb! With your help I think it’s achievable! ❤️
You can do it! Happy spinning! 😊🐑💜🧶
Can you do a diy with the pencil and the aol dc?
Thank you for using that particular spindle. It is so cool! Also , great information and demonstration. It all moves along just fast enough that it's not drawn out but slow enough that its clear.
Thank you so much! 💜
I just bought my first spindle today and successfully made a really shitty bit of yarn. Your video clarified so much for me!
I came here from a primitive technology video were the host was using a drop spindle to make bark fiber yarn to then weave into a mat. I couldn't figure out how the spindle was working from what I could see in his video but your tutorial cleared my confusion right up. Thank you.
That spindle! I adore it! I remember growing up and putting those on the record player to switch between 45's and 33's 😃
Thank goodness! I was searching the comments to find someone else who recognized it!!! The traditional colour, too, at least 'round here! Having to use a 45 insert made playing the old records a little more special :)
Hi from New York!
I will have to watch again because at first I wasn't sure what was going on. But I get it now. And this could change my financial problems when wanting new yarn. Yes and I'll be so much happier. I'm sure of it.
thanks for the video, I grew up as a shepherd and had to do this as a kid, now as an adult, I have been asked to bring my fiber art knowledge for a demo. after all those years I completely forgot how to drop the spin so thank you for reminding me!
Finally!!! After watching a bazillion tutorials, and being so frustrated, this was the video that actually put all the pieces together. I bought a drop spindle to see if I liked spinning (before committing to an expensive wheel) and I am so glad I did. My first yarn isn't the best, but due to your excellent tutorial, there actually IS a ball of yarn. Many, many thanks!
🎉🎉🎉 Happy spinning!
I'd given up on spinning a few years back. I have a few drop spindles and two wheels. I took my granddaughter last weekend to a Fiber Festival near me and got reenergized to give spinning a try again. I've watched two of your drop spindle videos and really enjoyed them and think I'm ready to give it another try. I also bought the Nano 2 eSpinner.
Hi Eve. I am Irene from Greece. I have been weaving for some years, and as you said, I also like getting to know more krafts. Lately I realy am thinking about spinning and dying. Your tutorials are very detailed and you give me answers to questions I had. Keep up the good work.
You have inspired me to get my drop spindle back out of hiding and finish spinning the wool I bought ages ago to learn this craft. You have are a great teacher!
That is awesome! You can do it! 🐑✨🧶
Thank you so much for this tutorial! It really helps that you go through finishing the yarn. I can't tell you how many tutorials I have watched about spinning with a drop spindle, and they all end in the middle of the project.
I know this is an old video, but I wanted to comment to say your videos got me interested in spinning, and today I bought my first drop spindle. I'm so happy and excited to engage with this ancient craft and learn how to draft yarn. Thank you for making your content and doing what you do!
Thank you so much for this GREAT tutorial! I can't wait to watch your other ones! You are a terrific teacher and you're so pretty. You look very much like you could be speaking to us from the 40's, you've got that "glamorous" look.😊 ( maybe it's the red lipstick?) Anyway, such fun! Even my son wants to help! He said " I'll hold my hands out, holding the yarn, like in a movie, while you wrap a yarn ball" Maybe we'll both learn how to knit next. Thanks again! Have a lovely day! 🌻
So I have had a drop spindle for many years. I bought it before I ever bought a spinning wheel because I wanted to make sure that I was SURE I liked making yarn before spending hundreds of dollars on a wheel.
I hated the spindle.
I couldn't get it right no matter how many tries I did.
I bought the spinning wheel anyway and loved it (still do)
Flash to a month ago. I find this tutorial and it just CLICKS. All of a sudden my spindle is in my hand I am making so much yarn on it. Spinning singles and plying them become such a great experience.
I bring my spindle to work now and spin up batts I've blended on my drum carder during slow times and lunch breaks. I'm teaching my sister. I just bought myself a Turkish spindle and can not wait to try it out.
Super long story short (too late)
Thank you! Thank you so so much. You have done such a great job with your tutorial and you have me inspired and creating daily. Thank you thank you.
Your comment brings me so much joy! I'm so excited for you!!! 🧶✨💜
“I Make Yarn” That sent me 😂💀
I have been wanting to spin for most of my life, but I haven't started yet. It is now one of my goals for 2021. I'm so glad I found your channel! 😊
You can do it! 🧶❤
This tutorial has absolutely been the easiest for me to understand! Thank you so much!
Just wanted to say - I saw this video last December (2021) after my MIL gave me a fleece batt I had no idea how to use. I googled for a drop spindle video, watched yours and got started. Rabbit hole indeed... only a month later I had an EEW nano and started natural dyeing... lol. Thanks for your great video. :)
I love your tutorials ! I wish you lived in Florida and did classes!
I do virtual classes! 😉💜
This is a great video, thank you! 🥰 I’ve had some of my gran’s old spindles for years and had no idea what to do with them, but I’ve managed to spin some of my home produced longwool fleece with this! Very excited 😍
Excellent teaching and clear demonstration. Have just successfully made my first (quite small skein) of 2ply! So glad I came across this tutorial. Thank you!
The first instructions I came across that addresses all steps. Thankyou!
Best beginner tutorial I have found for the drop spindle! Others claim to be beginner friendly but act as if you have tried already. I have tried, but lots tangling and breaking and frustration!
Thanks for teaching me. I eill now share what I learned with my daughter. So fun!
And thank you for sharing your hat, I had wondered if I could make any usable yarn... Very encouraging!
P.S. Now I know that Snow White liked to spin and what she looked like when she grew up. Just beautiful! Keep spinning, keep shining! Proverbs 31
Have you read Respect the Spindle by Abby Franquemont? I'm reading it now and it's awesome. It's helped me understand how to spin on a spindle almost as much as your tutorials have. Thank you for these videos!
Yes! I have it on the shelf right next to me and 10/10 recommend! 📖💜🧶
I can't thank you enough for all your videos and live chats!!! I just spinned my first section of merino top on my new Kromski.
I am intrigued that so much of this is by feel. I'm very tactile, so this fits me so well. So sorry I didn't take up spinning earlier. It's my new meditation.
I must have watched this video 5 times.
This is the first time I have seen someone explain the entire process beginning to end! Amazing, thank you!!! I have tried spinning about a year ago, filled a spindle, and then didn't know what to do next :D so it's just been sitting on my shelf ever since. I'm so excited to try again! Thank you for showing me the way back to the magic of spinning ❤
I was looking up how to make a drop spindle and I came across your video after a successfully making my own and now out of scrap yarn I've made my own batting! And hopefully with your tutorial I'm going to make some beautiful yarn. This is amazing❤ you explain everything so well
Thanks for giving me a refresher my spinning. It’s been a couple of years since I picked up my spindle
What a gentle and nice voice. What a fantastic explanation! thank you from Anna from Knitting in Mauritius podcast.
this is awesome, ive been wanting to spin for years and finally i'm going for it!
This is the best, clearest tutorial I have seen for drop spindle. I think I can actually do this now. 😍
I absolutely am committed to learning how to spin. I have a spindle and fiber. I keep trying but it is not working for me. I wish I lived closer so I could take lessons from you. Not discouraged just a little frustrated. I do love your videos and how thoroughly you explain everything. It just may be one of those things that I have to keep trying until I get it. I would settle for even a krappy yarn right now compared to what I have. Thank you for your videos.
I watched this video so many times, My hubby thinks you’re a bad influence. But I did it! The first try is ugly snd uneven, the second was better. And because you lovely RUclipsrs share your knowledge I will be able to learn more. Thank you!
Hello Eve, this is the first time a write a comment to you. thank you very much for this tutorial. You have motivated me to buy my first spindle a Top drop spindle and some Coridale top. I started in August this year and have spinned about 8 oz of fiber. I am still drafting and parking because my spins don't last enough for me to draft while it spins. My single is pretty even with some areas of extra fine yarn and others a little thicker. I also bought the Respect the Spindle book by Abby Franquemont and am enjoying reading it. Thanks again. I am now considering buying a spinning wheel in the future, but for now I am enjoying using my drop spindle. I still need to learn to ply my single because it is way too thin to use as is.
Oh my goodness, the treasure trove of info in this one video is wonderful! ❤ I can’t wait to get started. You have a new loyal subscriber!
Another succinct and informative video tutorial! I was particularly pleased you talk about making spindles etc. Thank you!
Your bloopers are always great, this one made me bust out 🤣. Thanks for the great info. 🙂
Had to look up what spinning is and landed on your video. Now in subscribed. You are a delight.🤠
Thank you for this! You speak clearly and SLOWLY which I really needed. Thanks so much :)
Thanks a lot! You put ALL the steps into one video without overcomplicating things! Even I could understand it.
You are delightful Jillian! And this is a GREAT tutorial
I stumbled on to your videos because being a beginning crocheter i was curious what the big skein of showstopper yarn at hobby lobby was used for. Well now not even watching two full videos i am hooked lol. thank you
I love the humor in all your vídeos. Thank you!
I just found this video! THANK YOU SO MUCH for this! I have several art batts and braids and now I MIGHT be able to do this and use them! Thank you!
I know I can do this!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you... You have the most beautiful smile and disposition; great tutorial and delivery XXOO
I just got my first drop spindle this week, and now I'm feeling a lot less anxious about trying to use it
Lovely tutorial video! You're amazing. I used to teach drop spindle spinning and I delighted at all the tips & tricks you provided. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and passion! Take care!
I really really appreciate the troubleshooting tips! Thank you 🙂
Thanks for your information it has really motivated me to try spinning again.
This is awesome!! Cannot wait to share with some 6-12yo kids I will be working with.
Wonderful! Have fun! 🧶🐑✨
Best tutorial I have seen. Thank you
Thank you so much! I just couldn’t get how to use the drop spindle but after watching your tutorial it just clicked, and now I just want to spin all the time. Brilliant tutorial 👏
If you're wearing a long sleeve shirt you can tuck the excess fiber into the sleeve. I've also used small bungee cords as a shoulder distaff, especially when walking around and spinning
Love your delivery, your expertise, your teaching skills. All around, you are so professional and lovely to watch. Thank you for being my favorite fiber creator.
Thank you so much! 🥰🧶💕
I got my first drop spindle for Christmas this year! Hopefully it's the start of a new obsession, not a disaster. I love your videos!
Omg i just found you and you are the CUTEST and made me want a spindle SO BAD
Thanks for your video. I wish you were on a couple of years ago. I struggle with learning on my own. I’m going to watch all of your videos now that I have a full size spinning wheel. Blessings! You are awesome!
Glad it was helpful! Happy spinning!
Hello! I was listening in on Granny Dee’s live yesterday while she was introducing you to the group, so I came over to your channel to check out your spinning videos. I have a 16 year old Persian cat named Rusty (named after the rusty tones in his fur which is beautiful), and we have to shave him a couple of times a year or he gets very matted. Call me crazy, but I have been saving his fur. That’s what yarn/fiber lovers do, right? It is so fluffy and his underfur has that texture that would make it purrfect (see what I did there lol) for spinning into yarn. I want to have some yarn or make something to remember him by, because he is very old, we don’t know how much longer he is going to live. I do not have a spindle, but I do have access to a 3D printer at the school where I work. I am totally going to print a spindle to use and try to spin his fur now that I have watched this video! I also have a RUclips channel and whenever I post that video, I will give you total credit for teaching me how to spin! Wish me luck!!!
Thank you so much for this tutorial!! I just received my first drop spindle and excited to try this out! God bless ❤
Great video on spinning. You answered my question in the comments about what to do if I don't have a ball winder. Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it! 🧶💜🌷🐑
Have been dealing with a wrist injury recently so couldn't crochet and knit, but discovered yarn spinning and immediately wanted to try it. I've read and watched a few guides and this is the only one to make sense, you're very cheerful too which makes for an engaging tutorial! Drop spindle and some roving coming in a few days so I'm looking forwards to having a go; many thanks!
I'm catching up on comments and saw this from 3 weeks ago. I hope you are spinning miles and miles of wonderful yarn by now!!! ❤😊❤
Great vid! Thanks. Starting today, as outside chores have been halted due to rain storm. Saved and Subscribed.
I have a long hair Ragdoll cat that I get really soft white fluffy cotton ball like hair when I comb him. I hate to waste it so have been bagging it. I want to make some yarn to crochet a beaded bracelet. Your tutorial is so clear in the instructions and I feel confident I will be able to create yarn following your video.
Did it work?
Phew. What a good hour. I tried to do it all at once for like 20-30min in a supported spindle. Than I gave up and tried this. After an hour or so I get pretty consistent yarn. It's thicker than my hair, but still, mostly thinner than the yarn I weave with. (I guess its a bit thicker than 1/4 mm, because in my tablet weaving I get approx. 1mm per card = 4 strands of yarn. This single is thinner. But when I ply it, I am convinced it will be thicker)
Anyway. Often enough it gets so thin, that it breaks on me, because of the built up twist. Oopsie. But it's fun.
My first try is with cotton, since I am allergic to wool. I got myself a samplet package of different plant fibers and cotton seemed to be the most and the most inexpensive choice. I am looking forward to plying and weaving this wonky beginners yarn :D
By far the best video on drop spinning I’ve seen. And I’ve seen A LOT!! Very well done! I look forward to learning more.
Great video! So excited to try spinning for thr first time!
I love your videos. You have such a nice scientific approach to everything, all the while being able to explain things so that everyone understands the points you are making.
You answered ALL My questions, Jillian, so thank you so much.
I'm joining TdF this year, and it'll be my first ever time spinning! I ordered a mini spindle thats painted to look like a mushroom and 2 ounces of BFL, i'm very excited! Thank you so much for this tutorial, It's incredibly clear and answering questions I didnt even know I had!
I'm so glad to help! Your spindle sounds adorable!!! Happy spinning! 🍄🧶💜
I LOOOOOVE your video!!! I’m so excited to get my first drop spindle kit that I ordered. I have definitely subscribed to your channel!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!! 💙💙
Thank you for a succinct, yet complete, tutorial that takes the mystery out of spinning with spindle. You surely have saved me a lot of time and boosted my confidence in starting my first try. Thank you! Love the hat!
I'm so glad! Happy spinning! 🐑💕