Ancient Threads Farm

Learn to Spin: Recommended Resources

Ready to turn fiber into yarn? Drop spindle spinning is a wonderful way to explore one of the oldest textile traditions. With a simple spindle, a little fiber, and some patience, you can begin creating your own handspun yarn.

We've gathered a few of our favorite beginner-friendly resources to help you get started.

Beginner's Guide to Spinning on a Drop Spindle

Schacht Spindle Company's Beginner's Guide

This comprehensive, step-by-step guide walks you through the fundamentals of spinning, from preparing your fiber and attaching a leader to learning the park-and-draft technique. You'll also discover how to spin continuously, ply your yarn, and finish your first skein.

A great place to start if you've never picked up a spindle before.

Learn by Watching: Drop Spindle Spinning

Watch Schacht's Drop Spindle Tutorial

Sometimes it's easier to learn when you can see the movements in action! This beginner-friendly video demonstrates spinning with both top-whorl and bottom-whorl spindles, along with techniques for plying your yarn.

Watch, practice, pause, and try again. Every spinner starts somewhere.

Old Skills. New Hands.

At Ancient Threads, we believe traditional crafts are meant to be shared, practiced, and passed along. Whether you're spinning your very first strand or rediscovering an old skill, we're glad you're part of the journey.