Spin Off Fall 2024

Join us as we celebrate the beloved and ever-useful spindle in its many forms—suspended, supported, grasped, driven, and beyond. From ancient re-creations to modern adaptations, spindles are clever low-tech tools that allow us to be on the go and engage with fiber in new ways. Take a deep dive into the world of spindles with tutorials that hone your skills, articles that uncover the history and science behind these tools, and projects that make great use of your handspun labors no matter what tool you use! 

• Learn why using a temporary cop on your supported spindle aids in the construction of a tidy cop for balance and speed. Then, knit or weave a sweet cushion to hold a supported-spindle bowl.
• Travel to India with Avani Varia and follow her experience of teaching traditional spinning and creating true khadi—handspun, handwoven cloth.
• Learn how Archeologist Katrin Kania re-created a Medieval spindle and distaff technique and follow along with her tutorial to give it a try.
• Knit great socks using an adaptable pattern that will fit any foot using any yarn.

As original spinner’s tool, spindles have been in our maker’s hands around the globe for thousands of years. We hope this issue inspires you to grab a spindle, get spinning, and tap into these traditions.

Articles

• Beginner Basics: How I Wind a Cop on My Supported Spindle by Deborah Held
• The Science of Suspended Spindles by Meagan Condon
• Considering Cops: Wind On for Speed and Spin by Karen Williams
• Spinning Medieval-Style with Handspindle and Distaff by Katrin Kania
• Threads from Vanished Spindles: Reconstructing an Ancient Spinning Tradition by Elaine Fuller
• Takli, Charkha, Khadi: Spindle-Spun Yarns in Indian Textiles by Avani Varia
• Colorful Cotton Singles: Woven Stripes, Checks & More by Eileen Hallman
• Beginner Basics: How Much Yarn Fits on a Spindle? by Devin Helmen
• Dealgan Travels: A Scottish Spinning Tradition Today by Sara C. Bixler
• Turkish Spindles: An Ode to Slow Yarn by Andy Barrett

Projects

• Spincushion for Supported Spindles by Sharon Barnes
• Socks Fit for a Spinner by Sandi Rosner
• Fulled Messenger Bag by Margaret Stump