Spindle

Reproduction Medieval Spindles

A spindle (sometimes called a drop spindle) is a wooden spike weighted at one end with a circular whorl; it may have an optional hook at either end of the spike. It is used for spinning wool and other fibers into thread.

For centuries, the spindle played a role in producing thread and yarn. It is still a tool used in parts of the world today. The form and function of the spindle is basically the same everywhere. It has a very simple design consisting of a shaft and a weight. The materials used to make the spindle in the past consisted of whatever was readily available at the time. The majority of the spindles available, today, have wooden shafts with a wooden disc as the whorl (weight). The type of yarn you want to produce, and the type of fiber being used determine choosing the type of spindle to use.