Drop Spindle

TIME TO COMPLETE

Less than 30 min.

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

You will learn to assemble simple materials to create a tool that has been used for thousands of years.

WHAT WILL YOU NEED?

Cardboard
Crafting Materials
Other Materials
Tape (Duct, masking, etc)
Upcycled / Recycled materials
Yarn/string

STEP 1

Cut the dowel

Cut the dowel rod down to around 1 foot long.

STEP 2

Screw in the hook

Screw the brass hook into one end of the dowel.

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.

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.

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.

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 videos¬†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.