Antique Spinning Tools ~ Medieval Spindles

There are many amazing types of antique spindles out there. But one of my favorites might have to be the medieval spindles. Unlike many of today's spindles, the medieval spindles have removable whorls that are made of stone, clay, or metal. So as you spin you can adjust the weight of your spindle. By removing the larger whorl and putting on one with a lighter weight. Or by just using it without a whorl since your new yarn is making the spindle heavier.       And because the whorls are removable you can use the same spindle sticks with whorls of different weights and different shapes. Making it easy to just pop on whichever whorl you need for that job.    And since you can remove the whorl, the spindle stick can then become your weaving shuttle. Saving you a lot of time and work. And since the whorls come off the spindle sticks it makes for much easier storage.   The spindle sticks are normally tapered to a point on each end. Although there are different types of tips that can be on the top of the spindle. Some different tips include a notch, a plain tapered point (like shown in the pictures), or a thinner neck with a little bulb on top.    The whorls normally have a tapered hole in the middle that matches the tapered shaft of the spindle stick. So the whorl is held on with just friction. Although a small band can be put under the whorl to help secure it if you want. And one other interesting part of a medieval spindle is the off set wide belly of the shaft. Which is where the new yarn is stored while spinning. And if I ever happen to accidentally break a spindle stick I do not have to lose the whole spindle. I can easily replace the shaft and get right back to spinning.    Medieval spindles are great for reenactments, but they are also so much fun for anyone looking for a unique type of spindle to try. And with the whorls and shafts being interchangeable there are so many options when it comes to using them.