Preparing and spinning with an antique wheel and distaff

Here I show preparing drum carded fiber (wool, soybean, and silk), securing it to a distaff, and spinning it into fine yarn (or thread) using my accelerated Chair wheel. This Chair wheel is from the 1800s and was used to spin wool and flax (linen).

[@emilyackertrutten268]

Thanks for posting - it has been hard to find videos of wool spinning with a distaff

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

I'm glad to help! If you have any questions, let me know!

[@carolynadams2264]

I have an antique wheel also with a distaff, and your instructions are perfect. I had no idea how to prepare the distaff for spinning; can't wait to try this. Thank you so much.

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

You're welcome! I'm so glad it helped!

[@bryonylepoidevin2391]

Thankyou so much I have a wheel with a distaff and had no idea how to use it. Cant wait to try this.

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

You're very welcome! I'm so glad to help!

[@rebeccadees2300]

Is the distaff used for a certain type spinning ? fleece? cotton? Thank you for sharing this tutorial.

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

A distaff is generally used to hold whatever fiber you're spinning to allow both hands to work more freely. I can be used for various kinds of spinning and acts as an extra hand to control the fiber. I hope that answers your question!

[@juliequilligan96]

Thank you for sharing!

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

You're welcome! I'm glad to share

[@FoxURA]

Very informative~

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

Thank you! I'm glad to help!

[@FoxURA]

@@SpinningShadowsFiberArts The go to video for super fine spinning!

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

@@FoxURA Thank you! That’s very high praise!

[@abittwisted]

You spin super thin. Nice technique.

[@SpinningShadowsFiberArts]

Thank you! Thin is my default spin. :) I find it very relaxing.