Vlogmas Day 15 – Slow Craft for Busy Days
There’s something about spindle spinning that always feels like coming home.
In the middle of December, the days are short. The calendar is full, and the world seems a little louder than usual. I find myself reaching for my spindle. Not because I have to. But because I want to. It reminds me to slow down, to breathe, and to let my hands do something quiet and good.
If you’re new to spindle spinning, you are doing better than you think. Even if you’ve tried it once or twice and felt unsure, know this right from the start. You’re doing better than you think.
Beginning Where You Are
One of the first things I share in today’s video is how I make a leader. Sometimes I use a bit of pre-spun yarn. Sometimes I make one right from the fiber itself. Both ways are just fine. There’s no rule book here—only gentle guidance and curiosity.
Spindle spinning isn’t about perfection. It’s about learning how the fiber responds, how the twist travels, and how your hands naturally move. Every spindle has its own rhythm, and every spinner does too.
Wrapping, Spinning, and Letting Go
I also show how I wrap the fiber around the spindle to get started. This simple step can feel intimidating at first, but once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature. A wrap, a twist, a pause. Over and over again.
In the video, I’m using one of my favorite 3D-printed spindle—this one doesn’t even have a hook! And yes, that can feel a bit tricky at first. But with a secure wrap and a little patience, it spins beautifully. It’s a good reminder that tools don’t have to be fancy or traditional to be useful. They just have to work for you.
An Invitation to Experiment
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this, it’s permission.
Permission to experiment.
Permission to try different methods.
Permission to set the spindle down and come back later.
Spinning has been part of human life for thousands of years. No two people have ever done it exactly the same way. Your spinning doesn’t need to look like mine—or anyone else’s—to be right.
A Quiet Practice for Busy Seasons
During Advent and Vlogmas, spindle spinning has become a small daily ritual for me. Just a few minutes at a time. A way to ground myself, to pray without words, and to remember that slow things still matter.
If you’re spinning along with me this season, I’m so glad you’re here. And if you’re just watching and learning, that’s just as lovely.
🧶 May your fiber be forgiving, your spindle steady, and your heart at ease.
Grannie Doll
