1065

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 1

Cut the dowel

Cut the dowel rod down to around 1 foot long.

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 2

Screw in the hook

Screw the brass hook into one end of the dowel.

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 3

Add a rubber band

Wrap a rubber band around the opposite end of the dowel and move it a quarter way up the dowel.

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 4

Add the CD

Slide the CD up the dowel to meet with the rubber band. Add the second rubber band to the bottom and slide it up to trap the CD between the two rubber bands.

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 5

Tie on the leader

Tie the leader yard onto the dowel below the CD, then tie the other end onto the wool roving.

Project step photo 2
Project step photo 2

STEP 6

Using the spindle

Run the leader through the hook so the spindle hangs with the CD towards the bottom. To use the spindle roll it across your leg to get it spinning. This spinning action will twist the yarn. Pinch the yarn tightly to prevent the twist from traveling too far up at a time. Slowly pull more yarn roving out and let the twist travel up.

WHAT'S NEXT?

Yarn spinning is an art and skill. Check out YouTube videosĀ on drop spindles, like this one, to find better technique.

Please Note

Your safety is your own responsibility, including proper use of equipment and safety gear, and determining whether you have adequate skill and experience. Power tools, electricity, and other resources used for these projects are dangerous, unless used properly and with adequate precautions, including safety gear and adult supervision. Some illustrative photos do not depict safety precautions or equipment, in order to show the project steps more clearly. Use of the instructions and suggestions found in Maker Camp is at your own risk. Maker Media, Inc., disclaims all responsibility for any resulting damage, injury, or expense.

Farmstead


Drop Spindle

Project hero image
Maker Camp Project Time Icon

20 Minutes

TO COMPLETE

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

A classic device for turning wool into yarn.

WHAT WILL YOU NEED?

  • 7/16 dowel rod
  • 2 rubber bands
  • Brass hook
  • Compact Disk
  • Leader yarn
  • Washed and carded fleece