The chattering of the spindle is lovely. Wonderful addition to information for me, since I didn’t know it made that noise and I write historical fiction. Women sitting around chatting while their spindles chatter. Such a great image.
From what I have read from viking material that has been found behind brooches, the vikings used the tog (the long corse wool in a duel coated sheep like the Icelandic breed) for the warp in weaving. The thel (the soft inner coat in that sheep) as the weft. Since the tog and the thel have slightly different colors on may fleeces it makes the broken twill often used in their weaving very beautiful and evident. That is the beauty of using a combed fleece.
Yes! I'm combing some Icelandic wool to do some weaving with the seperate coats right now. I'm a bit slowed down by having to move, but im making progress! I'll have more videos coming up about making the cloth! 💖🧶😊
I have a thought about the metal post.. although someone may have come up with this already. What if it was to fit into a hole in a leather belt, maybe a somewhat loose belt and then the distaff would just rest in the crook of your arm while you spin.. that would give you both hands kind of free to draft and flick the spindle. Just a thought.
Yeah, i was also thinking it probably attached to a belt like that. I can't remember where/when, but historically, distaffs have been found to be attached to belts so as to keep hands free. I think there is even medieval art of it.
Something mentioned by Ruth Goodman was the Iron Age/Medieval homes were smoky. People sat low. Because if they sat on long legged chairs their head might be uncomfortably close to smoke level. If you were to sit down and switch to a supported spindle method then a longer distaff would be difficult.
When I'm spinning in my viking garb, I have a small leather pouch on my belt. It holds my spare whorls but also use it as something the lean the spindle on when wrapping. I'm also known for hooking the distaff into my belt.
Hi! You know, I’m beginning to think that those types of distaffs could have also been used horizontally…. Hear me out, thinking as an old lady with tired muscles, haha, I think it was screwed into something horizontally, and then the spinner had both hands completely free to draft and spin the fiber coming off the other end. I’m going to try it with a dowel rod about the size of that distaff, while sitting, I’ll let you know how it goes! You make good videos, TY!
There is a traditional belt holder for holding the ball of yarn while walking or standing and knitting. The Viking dress included a belt for holding the dress closer to the body for warmth, for holding keys or a knife. Up until fairly recently the budeier, young women who took the farm animals up to the seter, or summer farm, would knit as they went. The yarn holder was a twisted length of sturdy wire, or possibly a strong root, or carved wood, formed into a hook that was tucked into the center of the ball, and another hook to fasten into the belt.
OMG! Just have to say that I LOVE YOU! You are so awesome! I have 3 shetland cross sheep, Lagatha, Lily, and Ivy. I have been prepping and spinning their wool to make an apron dress! I did not think anyone had done a video on it and here you are, a gal after my own heart talking about the same thing! you are beautiful and amazing. Thank you for sharing all this fun stuff with us
Thanks for this demo and your thoughts and comments on what you have found in your research, and sharing the links to other's research too. I am also fascinated and interested in what you have found and your experience in producing yarn with these tools. There is so much to learn and explore. 😊
I wonder how much individual variation there was between spinners, perhaps with some people tending more towards making one type of yarn than another. My guess is that there also may have been quite significant regional variations that grew up - in the way that knitting methods vary a lot across Europe.
Thank you, thank you for these historical exploration videos! I too am fascinated by all of this but don't have your expertise. I am currently hand sewing a 1390's era dress from wool I wove. I am hoping to spin yarn for a future historical outfit. Your videos are so helpful, clear, and encouraging.
Yes ,yes, the weight of the yarn would influence the whorl... That is what I have been thinking about the more I watch videos on spindles... Beautiful yarn.
In regards to the belt... it could be similar to the Shetland knitters. They had belts for holding balls of yarn and their projects while walking, and boy did they knit fast lol😂😂
The Shetland knitting belt is for one of the tips of a set of double-pointed knitting needles to fit into. The knitting style is akin to the style where the needle that the stitches are formed on is held under the arm, this supports the needle and allows both the left and right hands more freedom to form stitches quickly. The balls of wool went in their pockets, typically apron pockets, so that they could knit while walking.
I love who your are... i don't feel alone with all my i wonders and what ifs etc. The where did it start, how'd they do that, and the research/learning curves begin. Seems like whole worlds of the past to present all start coming together by the walking back in time. Oh and the body support makes those support spoons make sense in their design.
My first thought upon seeing images of the original disstaff was "Baldrick" (possibly one with a cunning plan). The rod looks ideally placed to sit in a belt/baldrick to take the weight whilst spinning. I'm not a spinner (yet) so this is just an idea I had.
Thank you for your time and research. Having looked at videos and images of the distaff used in other cultures, especially those neighboring cultures, I was thinking that you might be using it upside down. The tapered end slides into your belt so that you don’t have to hold it and the other end is where you tie your fiber onto. The metal pin give you a place to attach the band (or ribbon) that is tied around the fiber. Also, you’ll notice in reversed position it is no longer “top heavy” and a counter weight unnecessary. I mean, I don’t know. But that is how similar distaffs generally work. Just something to consider. 😀
You do the most interesting videos evie I love how you teach us all so much history but you make it fun and understandable. I have been getting mad with some historical things I've been watching lately as they never have a spinner in these things and all I can think is well your showing how they hunted and how they carved the antlers let say and then they all have clothes on and I want to shout at them how did you get your clothes where is the spinner the weaver the sewer it's really starting to irritate me lol 😆. Thank you so much for this video evie love and hugs sweet friend xx
Wish I could give you 100 stars! I'm fascinated by the historical side of producing fabrics, too, so it's lovely to see someone being able to 'play' with these tools and ideas. I saw your video on spinning flax from the fold from a distaff and it makes so much sense to spin that way. I haven't progressed from a Turkish or drop spindle to using a distaff yet, but maybe I'll give it a try; the distaff I see here is a beautiful piece of wood which must be a pleasure to use... The only distaff I have currently is a 2' 6" or 3' piece of dowel! Keep doing what you're doing: it's proper historical research and reconstruction and yes, it really is fascinating and great fun! University research departments should be beating a path to your door! Very best wishes; Katherine from Kent UK
i m new to hand spinning but i work in a factory that produces yarn so i have seen and worked with the modern equivalent a lot and while that doesn't make me an expert in any case, already having the practice with drafted thread and connecting disconnected ends is definitely a big help. and the more i learn about the traditional spinning the more i see that the process didn't change at all. brushing is still a thing. carding is still a thing. constantly controling the tension and the number of spins per lenght is still a thing. steam shrinking the thread after it has been spun and sometimes also for the second time even before it was plied is still a thing, starting the yarn with pulling a length of fluffed material and spinning it between hands or as you said by rolling it over a thigh to form a leader is also a thing because that's the only way how you can thread it through the whole machine without adding another material and possibly mixing that into the final product.
im catching up on some of your videos because I have been given a drop spindle. I am spinning with cat fur for my norse (viking) reenactment persona. And making nailbinding gloves with the cat fur yarn. absolutely love getting bags of fur from my friends and spinning it into yarn its fasinating. So far I have woven a full coat on a loom but haven't spun yarn for a full dress - yet. But I wear the norse outfits regularly and they are soooooo comfortable.
That is awesome! Do you have an Instagram? I really need to get working on mine. I've been too busy lately but I'm hoping that will calm down and I can really get some cloth done. 🧶💜
just love watching your videos and enjoying the fruits of your interest and research. it occurs to me, as someone not even yet begun on my spinning adventures, that if i were going to set about using a distaff and spindle, which i think i am going to do, i would be looking to make a distaff that would attach or slot into some kind of table or stand. loved your little polymer whorls, gonna make a coupe of those today, and see what is available among out wood scraps for my wee spindle. keep enlightening
If I may add a suggestion The metal or stick at the bottom of the distaff may have been used to stablize the distaff as the women walked along. There is a method of knitting with a needle poked into a belt.
When I first saw that distaff, I wondered if it would be used the other way up. The pin would be at the top and the ribbon would loop on it to stop it from slipping down the distaff as the fibre is used, and the smooth end would slip into the belt when not actively spinning. But I've mostly spun flax on a distaff, so it's a guess. Your spinning looks beautiful and I appreciate you making these videos learning how to use the historical reproduction. (I too love the sound of the yarn flicking off the tip of the spindle. So soothing!)
I think you are right. Having a pin like that pointed toward the body doesn't make much sense. I'm going to flip it around once I get my Viking lady costume sewn. We'll see how it functions that way! I have to try all the ways! 😄❤🧶
I’m so glad you made this comment, I suspect it would just be balanced beautifully that way. With the other comments about being balanced on a belt or other surface it would seem it would work to best advantage.
This is beyond fascinating! I’m loving your experimental archeology, working out the possible ways our ancestors used those tools. I think I must get myself some replicas and have a go!
Kia ora for your video, Evie, I just love how you not only research but try to put spinning skills into practice. It is so, so interesting and your skills are inspiring (although you make it look so easy!). A few years ago, I bought a drop spindle from the Woolfest here, but I've forgotten how to make it work. It amused me to choose not the beautifully carved wooden version but the one that has the flywheel (3/4 inch diameter) made of a recycled dishwasher part and the stem (71/2 inches long) is carbon fibre! Anyway, it came with a little porcelain dish (2 3/4 inches diameter & 1/2 high).. which I guess could be used instead of the body. Anyway, your video was just what I was looking for, because mine does not have a hook at one end, and I just couldn't figure how to make it work. Thanks for the inspiration! Robyn
The viking age ring bag/purse perhaps? One of the actual finds was made with an ivory ring and the bag was left open and attached to the belt.. It could be useful when gathering, or holding other items. But perhaps it was another one of the useful tools for spinning or using the nostepinne. It's unfortunate there isn't anything written about such historical crafts during the time they were in use. I'm glad humanity learned not just to speak for communication, but in time developed a written language. It has been invaluable in passing down information from our past.
I haven't finished watching the video yet, but in regards to the metal piece, what if the spinner was sitting on the ground? Maybe in a hut, around a fire or something? We may never know. Thank you for all your knowledge!
That's what I thought too! If they were migrating or walking all day, they wouldn't want to stand and spin at night. Have you seen that video of the turkish woman spinning? She sat down while she did it too.
This was my thinking too. Either sitting on the ground or on a small stool. Maybe it's just my modern sensibilities, but I can't imagine someone standing for the length of time it would take to spin the amount of yarn they would need. I learned to use a spindle during the lockdowns last year and was pretty much self taught. My natural position is sitting cross-legged on a wooden floor. I used my hip in exactly the same way that JillianEve does to wind onto the spindle. I wondered if the metal pin on the distaff would fit in an extra hole on her belt, her stool or the floor.
I think this could totally be possible too! People are still people and we like to be comfortable! I'm really loving all the ideas coming out of this project! 💖🧶👍
Haven't read through all the comments, but the Sip&Spin gal wore a sort of wooden spinning spoon in her apron belt for supported spinning while walking around. Seemed to work very well.
The spindles I use most are the viking-style ones, and I mostly work with the shorter Oseberg-style distaff, and I do spin suspended with no problems - I did at first, but I found that over time as my yarns got finer (and especially for weaving, they would have been quite fine most of the time) and my hands got stronger, I was able to do a fairly long make with only one or to flicks. We have no evidence that they had cards, so I don't use carded preps, but I have a rooed Soay fleece and no way is the staple length long enough to comb sanely, so I'm going to have a play with that, see what I can do. The longer-staple wools I usually use I do tend to spin in the grease, and yes it does make it easier, but the soay is also *very* greasy. Late medieval illustrations seem to indicate that grasped or short-suspension was common, so I want to have a go at that, but so far I've not been able to do as you described and just pull against the supply on the distaff or do minimal drafting with the left hand, at least not with the shorter distaff. The later ones do seem to have been anchored in a belt, so that could be what the spike was for, or perhaps that spike fitted it into a mount on a seat - perhaps one on a cart, we don't know how they were travelling through the pass when this was lost - and it was used that way with the woman sitting as is also shown in some of those late medieval images. This distaff might be evidence of a transition from primarily suspended spinning to the grasped/short suspension method. Maybe they used different methods for different yarns, ie, one for warp and one for weft - they were often spun in opposite directions. As you say, we can't know, but it's interesting to experiment with these tools and find the most comfortable way of using them, whatever seems most intuituve to us!
Yes! Everything you just shared is exactly all the things I've been considering. I especially keep thinking about how the ways I've learned to spin bias me toward treating this distaff a certain way and attempting to spin using it a certain way. I think the more ideas and experimenting we can do the better. I might need to find myself a cart.... 😊🧶💖
@@JillianEve i ended up trying a short suspension spin with the short distaff, and it did work fairly well. Main issue I had was not being able to remove neps on the fly as I can suspended. It seems better suited to lower-twist yarns than I usually make, because I'm not getting as much twist in the same amount of time/drafting as with a good strong suspended flick, but, again - I'm boubd to be better at what I have more experience of.
Just seen another video with someone trying one of these, and she thinks maybe the distaff got shoved into the top of the apron dress, sort of next to the armpit, giving a similar experience to using the longer medieval shoved-in-the-belt sort...
@@RandomAFP I saw that video too! I want to try flipping it around when I make my apron dress. There were quite a few people wondering if the pin on the end of it was meant to attach the fiber. I love how so many people are experimenting with this!!!
As to the lack of combing, I saw a photo from a friend, of a device made from nails and dried thistle tops. And that was how wool was combed back in more ancient times. The plant in Italian he says is called cardo (to me it looks like a bull thistle) and is where the name of "carding" the wool came from. My fingers ache at the thought, but I imagine they hused leather to protect their hands as they gathered them? I do not know. But it was interesting to hear.
I'm rewatching this video qnd I've watches a 15th century spinner on TH-cam and she has like a belt with a small bowl on and she used it in 2 ways 1 was for a supported spindle or for a small distaff with the same sort of spindle you are using in this video. I'm wondering if the bit at the bottom of your distaff is for being supported while walking or on the move in some way or if your arm was tired. Just a thought x
If you are thinking about spinning and weaving cloth for medieval/viking clothing You should take a look at Woven Into The Earth by Else Ostergard. Its an extremely in depth look at some Greenland clothing and fiber tool finds, and it makes me want to build a viking age weighted loom! She also has a separate pattern book for the clothing, but I dont own that one so I cant comment though I have heard good things about it too!
I have a guess for the metal "pin" on the bottom of the distaff. Perhaps they wore a belt with some sort of divot or hole to "rest" the distaff on so they could load it up with fiber without making their arms tired. I would assume they were spinning a lot, which could get heavy.
The whorls used in those times were heavier than these silver solored whorls you got, which do look similar, but due to the weight aren't. The Vikings had sheep whose wool was very greasy. This is also why this wool was so suitable for the sails of the dragonboats. So the Vikings and all the Germanic tribes had various ways of spinning and also different spindles according to the yarn they were making and for which purpose. They must have used large spindles for wool to be used for the sails of ship and other practicle devicess, and they must have used smaller spindles for yarn used for clothing. In addition, they must have treated the wool differently before spinning to get rid of most of the grease. You might be interested in the outcome of today's experimental archeology done in Northern Europe, Germany, Austria and Great Britain. Contacting certain museums woud help.
Hi Evie, hope you're OK. Thankyou so much for this update using the Distaff. I was wondering if you found the Lady here one TH-cam, whi shows this type of medieval Spinning. Sorry can't just recall her name at the moment. At one point in one of her videos she has her Distaff propped up against a wall.( i think she's called Laura Swales). Love your History of the Distaff and you certainly seem pretty efficient in the amount of yarn you're getting. Happy Spinning. Take care and stay safe. Lots of love Jen 💘 xx
What about an apron dress with a special pocket that holds a little tiny wooden bowl fir supported spinning so the spindle shift does not wear in the cloth⁉️🤔 💜💙💚🧡❤💛
I've been struggling with figuring out my oseberg hand distaff and I really hope this helps out! I think another problem I've been having is I have top roving, but no other way of prepping it, so I think some combs may be in my future.
I have top roving that I prepped for distaff spinning and you can do it! Lay it out in strips and fluff them sideways. Did you see the video of the DIY polymer clay spindle whorls? I'm using an Oseberg style distaff in that one and it might give you some ideas for how to spin from that size of a distaff. This Lendbreen distaff is working but still requires more experimentation to get it figured out. My next plans are to flip it over, but I need an apron dress for that to work so I can tuck it in to my dress. 💜🧶🐑
@@JillianEve I haven't seen that one yet! I just started a like....channel binge while at work because I really do want to learn more about spinning instead of just flailing about and hoping it works. (I technically already ordered combs, and they arrived at my mailbox today!)
That distaff is so cool. Check out the people that made it. To have a better look. I was thinking that it could be used like a Navajo spindle "off the leg". I don't know much. Just learning myself
There are some Eastern European videos of dozens of women spinning from paddle distaffs. You can't really hear anything over the singing though. I'd link some but I've recently learned that YT comments with links will get deleted automatically on a random basis. A lot of the videos have "preslica" in the title, which means distaff. and I guess "predenje" means spinning.
google translate recognizes predenje as spinning in slovenian... but doesn't recognize preslica at all. time for me to go down another youtube rabbit hole, lol
@@esmecat Yeah Google Translate is pretty bad for coming up with the fiber definitions. I had to use another site to confirm that preslica was distaff and it was the second definition. Google usually uses the first definition of a word.
I am really interested to know whether there is anything that works with the clothes of the time with the way spinning works with that distaff. it would make sense since for a lot of times throughout history innovations in the fashions have come about thanks to practical requirements.
What if the metal rod on the end was made to fit in a fairly heavy base and turned in the base, so that the distaff could stand on maybe a low table while the person spinning sat on a stool, etc. That way the distaff was able to stand vertically by itself and the person spinning didn’t have to hold the distaff in her hand and could sit down while spinning.
I’m pretty sure that prong on the historic one is for sticking into something like a padded knitting belt worn around the waist. This would support the distaff and free up your left hand more. It would then be supported by the crook of your elbow. ETA……ok….just read below comments…..I’m not the first to think of this……of course!!!
Very interesting content. My 2 cents is that maybe children (beginner spinners ould spin the way you do but eventually this really looks like a supported spindle. Maybe they just spun it directly on a rock or a flat piece of wood?
the thoughts on your costume and pre bits that could be helpful.... why not make a belt as well (not just what might attach)? Sally Pointer has a wonderful video of an 11 strand plat that is a paleolithic replica... but i'm sure they would probably be familiar with platting in viking times. they used enough plat work in their art, for sure.
decided to get a link for that belt video... not sure if it will let me post a link, but if it does, this is the one i meant th-cam.com/video/1VS-vsuEjUY/w-d-xo.html
Have you looked at spindle spoons? I've seen some that are tucked into or attached to belts, providing a smooth surface for support spinning on the go. I don't know if they're historically inspired but I've seen them discussed in social media groups the past few years.
Thank you for this interesting videos about this distaff. Another thought for the metal thing on the end, I couldn't see it in the other video well enough: is it possible that the distaff was simply pocked into earth while spinning, the spinner sitting on earth as well? For the sound while spinning, you do not do that half notch other spinners do, right? That's nice to hear, as I lately came over spinnen the historical way and the videos I found all showed doing that notch. But I always omit it if I spin that way because for my feeling it only is necessary as long as one is unsure and learning this practice; else this way of spinning feels way more organic and fluent as the modern drop spindle spinning.
take a look at the videos by Ylva the Red, she's another you-tuber looking at similar things. She has a whole series on making apron dresses, spinning, etc. I believe she is with either an SCA group or just a historical demo group, and am pretty sure she's in australia. thanks for sharing your videos, I always enjoy them!
Some thoughts that come to mind…I doubt that they would have had a spinning method that required standing. I think you were standing in order to film the video but I’d like to know if you feel that your method works as well when you are seated? Also, what about the idea of a much longer spindle that can be rolled down the length of the thigh while sitting? I’ve seen yarn being spun that way but I can’t remember where…just an idea. I also think it’s possible that the metal pin on the end of the original distaff could have been to enable the distaff to be stuck into some sort of a stand or block so that it’s more hands free & you wouldn’t have to hold it up so much. And also that would help to enable this activity to be done sitting down. Mainly I think that in attempting to replicate how these ancient tools were used the primary aim has to be efficiency. This wasn’t a hobby or a “fun” activity for these people. They relied on this being a production activity if it was ever going to provide enough yarn for their clothing needs. So they would undoubtedly have developed the most energy and time efficient methods for spinning. Now you just have to experiment to find out what is the simplest and easiest method that can be sustained over the hours and hours they would have spent spinning.
In regards to the pin being for sticking the distaff in the ground: could it be that they sat on the ground while spinning, so the height of the distaff would then make more sense?
If I am spinning in bed, the sheets are woven tightly enough that if I stretch the sheet across my lap, the fabric forms a really good surface to support spin on. The fabric of my clothing is not usually tightly enough woven to create the same effect, the spindle stick works like an awl while spinning creating a hole without breaking any threads in the fabric. I was wondering, were the apron parts of the dresses tightly woven?
I'm still curious about that pin in the end. Your ideas about how it interacts with your clothing and body seem really interesting. Is it possible the pin could have stuck into a cushion or something similar to rest it against your body more comfortably?
Thank you so much for the update. I love seeing the evolution of techniques and tool as you progress with your skills! Soay sheep is a great primitive breed. They are originally from St Kilda Island in the Scottish Isles. Flocks today still "shed" their fleece (in the right circumstances). Check Etsy if you want to purchase some fiber. I did and it is great!
Jillian Eve, I have enjoyed this episode the most of all your episodes. I was very interested to see the distaff, and would like to either procure or make one to try out. I found the technique to match it was especially interesting to me. I would very much like to see your new garb. I wonder if you have made it by now? I would love to see it. Would you make it in 2/2 twill; broken twill, diamond twill? What ply will you use ? (Im thinking 2 ply)Will you use a natural dye for it ... if so what colour do you wish to get? Too many questions here. Thank you so much for your diligence, I have really enjoyed this.
I'm getting ready to make it. I wanted to do a few sewing projects with commercial fabrics just to get a bit more experience sewing first. I will probably do a diamond twill because it's my favorite but of course I'll have to sample first. I have a fleece waiting for me to get started and it is on the high priority list for 2023!
@@JillianEve I will be looking out for it! See my photos on Diamond Henderson (ACT Australia) on Face Book; of works I have made, in the photo section. Be so nice to meet you at a Viking festival .......perhaps one day! I really enjoy your Vlogs Evie!
Add spin, stop and do some tugging, then add a bit of spin, and by tugging and releasing, even out the length oft the drawn fiber, add the final twist, wind on, start wind, stretch, twist and stretch, tug and release, pull a bit, add twidt, etc. You shouldn't be going for a continuous spin like a wheel or drop spindle. Check out some navajo spinning instructions for this technique which will transfer nicely to yours.
Perhaps the pin was to hold a crosspiece so that when the spinner needed to tend to some other task for a moment, she could tuck her distaff into her belt with less risk of dropping it. Then one day, on a journey, the crosspiece fell off and they just didn't have the time or materials to replace it. Not such a big deal, she could still push it through her belt, right? But as she was hiking along the Lendbreen pass, busy with something (because otherwise, she'd have her spindle and distaff in her hands), the distaff slipped free and rolled off the trail. Distraction over, she reached for her distaff and... oh no! her distaff was missing! They spent some time looking for it but never saw it. Maybe it rolled out of sight, maybe they had walked on further than they thought, maybe it was getting close to sunset, all we know is that she never found it.
I just googled mediaeval distaffs, searched for images, and there's (as I recalled) a lot. Some are freestanding poles, others under the arm, anything that works, therefore.
Such a great demonstration! I've been slowly working my way into using a distaff for spindle spinning. I tried a distaff with wheel spinning but it slows me down too much (I'm a big fan of Paula Simmon's "Spinning for Softness and Speed"). I did find a video from the Tipsy Spinster where she uses a spindle spoon in a belt for support spindling while she moves around a festival campground. It's here on her channel The Sip -n- Spin: th-cam.com/video/UDY3mKLg3Is/w-d-xo.html Definitely something I want to try, if I ever get to go back to festivals to find an appropriate hand-carved spoon!
I was watching this video a couple of days ago and was thinking of you and your distaff. th-cam.com/video/7ej_aEYDHJ0/w-d-xo.html There are lots of videos in a similar vain to this. I think that when your life was so physically demanding, when you had a task that you could sit down for, you would. It maybe worth a try to see if it fits.
Regarding the wool they most likly used I have heard it came from the Norwegian wild sheep en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Norwegian_Sheep The sheep breeds that are found in the north sea area all stems from this breed.
The chattering of the spindle is lovely. Wonderful addition to information for me, since I didn’t know it made that noise and I write historical fiction.
Women sitting around chatting while their spindles chatter. Such a great image.
From what I have read from viking material that has been found behind brooches, the vikings used the tog (the long corse wool in a duel coated sheep like the Icelandic breed) for the warp in weaving. The thel (the soft inner coat in that sheep) as the weft. Since the tog and the thel have slightly different colors on may fleeces it makes the broken twill often used in their weaving very beautiful and evident. That is the beauty of using a combed fleece.
Yes! I'm combing some Icelandic wool to do some weaving with the seperate coats right now. I'm a bit slowed down by having to move, but im making progress! I'll have more videos coming up about making the cloth! 💖🧶😊
@@JillianEve looking forward to that!!!
SUCH PATIENCE ! MAKE SOMETHING LOVELY !🎉
I have a thought about the metal post.. although someone may have come up with this already. What if it was to fit into a hole in a leather belt, maybe a somewhat loose belt and then the distaff would just rest in the crook of your arm while you spin.. that would give you both hands kind of free to draft and flick the spindle. Just a thought.
Yeah, i was also thinking it probably attached to a belt like that. I can't remember where/when, but historically, distaffs have been found to be attached to belts so as to keep hands free. I think there is even medieval art of it.
Something mentioned by Ruth Goodman was the Iron Age/Medieval homes were smoky. People sat low. Because if they sat on long legged chairs their head might be uncomfortably close to smoke level. If you were to sit down and switch to a supported spindle method then a longer distaff would be difficult.
When I'm spinning in my viking garb, I have a small leather pouch on my belt. It holds my spare whorls but also use it as something the lean the spindle on when wrapping. I'm also known for hooking the distaff into my belt.
Hi! You know, I’m beginning to think that those types of distaffs could have also been used horizontally…. Hear me out, thinking as an old lady with tired muscles, haha,
I think it was screwed into something horizontally, and then the spinner had both hands
completely free to draft and spin the fiber coming off the other end. I’m going to try it with a dowel rod about the size of that distaff, while sitting, I’ll let you know how it goes!
You make good videos, TY!
There is a traditional belt holder for holding the ball of yarn while walking or standing and knitting. The Viking dress included a belt for holding the dress closer to the body for warmth, for holding keys or a knife. Up until fairly recently the budeier, young women who took the farm animals up to the seter, or summer farm, would knit as they went. The yarn holder was a twisted length of sturdy wire, or possibly a strong root, or carved wood, formed into a hook that was tucked into the center of the ball, and another hook to fasten into the belt.
OMG! Just have to say that I LOVE YOU! You are so awesome! I have 3 shetland cross sheep, Lagatha, Lily, and Ivy. I have been prepping and spinning their wool to make an apron dress! I did not think anyone had done a video on it and here you are, a gal after my own heart talking about the same thing! you are beautiful and amazing. Thank you for sharing all this fun stuff with us
That is so cool. You are my favorite utuber!! Happy spinning from California
You are on quite the history journey. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for this demo and your thoughts and comments on what you have found in your research, and sharing the links to other's research too. I am also fascinated and interested in what you have found and your experience in producing yarn with these tools. There is so much to learn and explore. 😊
There really is! Thank you for watching! 😊🧶💖
I wonder how much individual variation there was between spinners, perhaps with some people tending more towards making one type of yarn than another.
My guess is that there also may have been quite significant regional variations that grew up - in the way that knitting methods vary a lot across Europe.
Thank you, thank you for these historical exploration videos! I too am fascinated by all of this but don't have your expertise. I am currently hand sewing a 1390's era dress from wool I wove. I am hoping to spin yarn for a future historical outfit. Your videos are so helpful, clear, and encouraging.
Yes ,yes, the weight of the yarn would influence the whorl...
That is what I have been thinking about the more I watch videos on spindles...
Beautiful yarn.
In regards to the belt... it could be similar to the Shetland knitters. They had belts for holding balls of yarn and their projects while walking, and boy did they knit fast lol😂😂
Yes! I'll see if there are other possible ways to belt it when I get my costume together. I love this idea! 🧶💖👍
@@JillianEve I've tried a knitting belt and liked it, only you need really long needles they call pins, plus the belt of course.
The Shetland knitting belt is for one of the tips of a set of double-pointed knitting needles to fit into. The knitting style is akin to the style where the needle that the stitches are formed on is held under the arm, this supports the needle and allows both the left and right hands more freedom to form stitches quickly. The balls of wool went in their pockets, typically apron pockets, so that they could knit while walking.
I love who your are... i don't feel alone with all my i wonders and what ifs etc. The where did it start, how'd they do that, and the research/learning curves begin. Seems like whole worlds of the past to present all start coming together by the walking back in time.
Oh and the body support makes those support spoons make sense in their design.
We are kindered spirits in our wondering! 😊🧶💖💖💖
I love to think of how people use these tools thanks for the fun video
Me too! I'm glad you enjoyed it! 🧶❤😊
My first thought upon seeing images of the original disstaff was "Baldrick" (possibly one with a cunning plan). The rod looks ideally placed to sit in a belt/baldrick to take the weight whilst spinning. I'm not a spinner (yet) so this is just an idea I had.
Thank you for your time and research. Having looked at videos and images of the distaff used in other cultures, especially those neighboring cultures, I was thinking that you might be using it upside down. The tapered end slides into your belt so that you don’t have to hold it and the other end is where you tie your fiber onto. The metal pin give you a place to attach the band (or ribbon) that is tied around the fiber. Also, you’ll notice in reversed position it is no longer “top heavy” and a counter weight unnecessary. I mean, I don’t know. But that is how similar distaffs generally work. Just something to consider. 😀
Yep! That's my plan to flip it around as soon as I get my apron dress costume done. 😊🧶❤
You do the most interesting videos evie I love how you teach us all so much history but you make it fun and understandable. I have been getting mad with some historical things I've been watching lately as they never have a spinner in these things and all I can think is well your showing how they hunted and how they carved the antlers let say and then they all have clothes on and I want to shout at them how did you get your clothes where is the spinner the weaver the sewer it's really starting to irritate me lol 😆.
Thank you so much for this video evie love and hugs sweet friend xx
I can't get 5 minutes into historical movies or documentaries. Poor Mark! 🤣🤣🤣
Wish I could give you 100 stars! I'm fascinated by the historical side of producing fabrics, too, so it's lovely to see someone being able to 'play' with these tools and ideas. I saw your video on spinning flax from the fold from a distaff and it makes so much sense to spin that way. I haven't progressed from a Turkish or drop spindle to using a distaff yet, but maybe I'll give it a try; the distaff I see here is a beautiful piece of wood which must be a pleasure to use... The only distaff I have currently is a 2' 6" or 3' piece of dowel!
Keep doing what you're doing: it's proper historical research and reconstruction and yes, it really is fascinating and great fun! University research departments should be beating a path to your door!
Very best wishes; Katherine from Kent UK
I also use my body to brace the spindle when winding on. And I usually spin a leader for my spindles by rolling the yarn on my thigh.
i m new to hand spinning but i work in a factory that produces yarn so i have seen and worked with the modern equivalent a lot and while that doesn't make me an expert in any case, already having the practice with drafted thread and connecting disconnected ends is definitely a big help. and the more i learn about the traditional spinning the more i see that the process didn't change at all. brushing is still a thing. carding is still a thing. constantly controling the tension and the number of spins per lenght is still a thing. steam shrinking the thread after it has been spun and sometimes also for the second time even before it was plied is still a thing, starting the yarn with pulling a length of fluffed material and spinning it between hands or as you said by rolling it over a thigh to form a leader is also a thing because that's the only way how you can thread it through the whole machine without adding another material and possibly mixing that into the final product.
Wow! Thank you for sharing because this truly fascinates me! 🧶💖
im catching up on some of your videos because I have been given a drop spindle. I am spinning with cat fur for my norse (viking) reenactment persona. And making nailbinding gloves with the cat fur yarn. absolutely love getting bags of fur from my friends and spinning it into yarn its fasinating.
So far I have woven a full coat on a loom but haven't spun yarn for a full dress - yet. But I wear the norse outfits regularly and they are soooooo comfortable.
That is awesome! Do you have an Instagram? I really need to get working on mine. I've been too busy lately but I'm hoping that will calm down and I can really get some cloth done. 🧶💜
So very interesting and how wonderful to learn how they may have done this!
I'm glad you enjoyed it! I'll keep experimenting! 😊❤🧶
Many old paintings and photos show people holding their distaffs tucked back between upper torso and arm. Love watching your videos!
just love watching your videos and enjoying the fruits of your interest and research. it occurs to me, as someone not even yet begun on my spinning adventures, that if i were going to set about using a distaff and spindle, which i think i am going to do, i would be looking to make a distaff that would attach or slot into some kind of table or stand. loved your little polymer whorls, gonna make a coupe of those today, and see what is available among out wood scraps for my wee spindle. keep enlightening
Fascinating!
Amazing! The thought of the sounds that used to be familiar to those old-time people and that we (modern people) don't know is quite odd.
I'm excited to see your costume come together
If I may add a suggestion
The metal or stick at the bottom of the distaff may have been used to stablize the distaff as the women walked along. There is a method of knitting with a needle poked into a belt.
Very interesting -- thank you so much for sharing your research and experimenting!!
Thanks for watching! I'm so glad you enjoyed it! 😊🧶💖
You make that look so easy!
👋
Thank you! It's just practice! 😊🧶💖
When I first saw that distaff, I wondered if it would be used the other way up. The pin would be at the top and the ribbon would loop on it to stop it from slipping down the distaff as the fibre is used, and the smooth end would slip into the belt when not actively spinning.
But I've mostly spun flax on a distaff, so it's a guess.
Your spinning looks beautiful and I appreciate you making these videos learning how to use the historical reproduction.
(I too love the sound of the yarn flicking off the tip of the spindle. So soothing!)
I think you are right. Having a pin like that pointed toward the body doesn't make much sense. I'm going to flip it around once I get my Viking lady costume sewn. We'll see how it functions that way! I have to try all the ways! 😄❤🧶
@@JillianEve :) I can't wait to see how it turns out.
Happy spinning!
I’m so glad you made this comment, I suspect it would just be balanced beautifully that way. With the other comments about being balanced on a belt or other surface it would seem it would work to best advantage.
This is beyond fascinating! I’m loving your experimental archeology, working out the possible ways our ancestors used those tools. I think I must get myself some replicas and have a go!
I love history channels and the technology they used: this and others like this you have you have done could be right from it!
I really love these types of videos and hearing your perspective on these tools. Keep up the great work. :)
Thanks, Evie. Excellent video.
Kia ora for your video, Evie, I just love how you not only research but try to put spinning skills into practice. It is so, so interesting and your skills are inspiring (although you make it look so easy!). A few years ago, I bought a drop spindle from the Woolfest here, but I've forgotten how to make it work. It amused me to choose not the beautifully carved wooden version but the one that has the flywheel (3/4 inch diameter) made of a recycled dishwasher part and the stem (71/2 inches long) is carbon fibre! Anyway, it came with a little porcelain dish (2 3/4 inches diameter & 1/2 high).. which I guess could be used instead of the body. Anyway, your video was just what I was looking for, because mine does not have a hook at one end, and I just couldn't figure how to make it work. Thanks for the inspiration! Robyn
The viking age ring bag/purse perhaps? One of the actual finds was made with an ivory ring and the bag was left open and attached to the belt.. It could be useful when gathering, or holding other items. But perhaps it was another one of the useful tools for spinning or using the nostepinne. It's unfortunate there isn't anything written about such historical crafts during the time they were in use. I'm glad humanity learned not just to speak for communication, but in time developed a written language. It has been invaluable in passing down information from our past.
I haven't finished watching the video yet, but in regards to the metal piece, what if the spinner was sitting on the ground? Maybe in a hut, around a fire or something? We may never know. Thank you for all your knowledge!
That's what I thought too! If they were migrating or walking all day, they wouldn't want to stand and spin at night. Have you seen that video of the turkish woman spinning? She sat down while she did it too.
This was my thinking too. Either sitting on the ground or on a small stool. Maybe it's just my modern sensibilities, but I can't imagine someone standing for the length of time it would take to spin the amount of yarn they would need. I learned to use a spindle during the lockdowns last year and was pretty much self taught. My natural position is sitting cross-legged on a wooden floor. I used my hip in exactly the same way that JillianEve does to wind onto the spindle. I wondered if the metal pin on the distaff would fit in an extra hole on her belt, her stool or the floor.
I think this could totally be possible too! People are still people and we like to be comfortable! I'm really loving all the ideas coming out of this project! 💖🧶👍
Or set it on a table, chair arm, etc
Thank you. That was very informative
Haven't read through all the comments, but the Sip&Spin gal wore a sort of wooden spinning spoon in her apron belt for supported spinning while walking around. Seemed to work very well.
As i know, and I've been travelling villages up north of Europe, such devices were to stick between the legs, or behind the belt to spin anywhere.
I've found this one works well tucked under the arm too! 💜🧶😁
@@JillianEve i guess- it is just a question of comfort, if it works for you that way-that's the way it should be 😀
The spindles I use most are the viking-style ones, and I mostly work with the shorter Oseberg-style distaff, and I do spin suspended with no problems - I did at first, but I found that over time as my yarns got finer (and especially for weaving, they would have been quite fine most of the time) and my hands got stronger, I was able to do a fairly long make with only one or to flicks. We have no evidence that they had cards, so I don't use carded preps, but I have a rooed Soay fleece and no way is the staple length long enough to comb sanely, so I'm going to have a play with that, see what I can do. The longer-staple wools I usually use I do tend to spin in the grease, and yes it does make it easier, but the soay is also *very* greasy. Late medieval illustrations seem to indicate that grasped or short-suspension was common, so I want to have a go at that, but so far I've not been able to do as you described and just pull against the supply on the distaff or do minimal drafting with the left hand, at least not with the shorter distaff. The later ones do seem to have been anchored in a belt, so that could be what the spike was for, or perhaps that spike fitted it into a mount on a seat - perhaps one on a cart, we don't know how they were travelling through the pass when this was lost - and it was used that way with the woman sitting as is also shown in some of those late medieval images. This distaff might be evidence of a transition from primarily suspended spinning to the grasped/short suspension method. Maybe they used different methods for different yarns, ie, one for warp and one for weft - they were often spun in opposite directions. As you say, we can't know, but it's interesting to experiment with these tools and find the most comfortable way of using them, whatever seems most intuituve to us!
Yes! Everything you just shared is exactly all the things I've been considering. I especially keep thinking about how the ways I've learned to spin bias me toward treating this distaff a certain way and attempting to spin using it a certain way. I think the more ideas and experimenting we can do the better. I might need to find myself a cart.... 😊🧶💖
@@JillianEve i ended up trying a short suspension spin with the short distaff, and it did work fairly well. Main issue I had was not being able to remove neps on the fly as I can suspended. It seems better suited to lower-twist yarns than I usually make, because I'm not getting as much twist in the same amount of time/drafting as with a good strong suspended flick, but, again - I'm boubd to be better at what I have more experience of.
Just seen another video with someone trying one of these, and she thinks maybe the distaff got shoved into the top of the apron dress, sort of next to the armpit, giving a similar experience to using the longer medieval shoved-in-the-belt sort...
@@RandomAFP I saw that video too! I want to try flipping it around when I make my apron dress. There were quite a few people wondering if the pin on the end of it was meant to attach the fiber. I love how so many people are experimenting with this!!!
As to the lack of combing, I saw a photo from a friend, of a device made from nails and dried thistle tops. And that was how wool was combed back in more ancient times. The plant in Italian he says is called cardo (to me it looks like a bull thistle) and is where the name of "carding" the wool came from. My fingers ache at the thought, but I imagine they hused leather to protect their hands as they gathered them? I do not know. But it was interesting to hear.
I can just see you bard-ing across the Pass while spinning!
😊🧶💖 Maybe someday I actually will go there and spin in the mountains! I'd love that so much!
@@JillianEve that'd be seriously perfect!
I'm rewatching this video qnd I've watches a 15th century spinner on TH-cam and she has like a belt with a small bowl on and she used it in 2 ways 1 was for a supported spindle or for a small distaff with the same sort of spindle you are using in this video. I'm wondering if the bit at the bottom of your distaff is for being supported while walking or on the move in some way or if your arm was tired. Just a thought x
Thanks. This is wonderful!❤️🌺
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
!s to the pin would it fit between 2 boards on a table? Interesting video, btw
If you are thinking about spinning and weaving cloth for medieval/viking clothing You should take a look at Woven Into The Earth by Else Ostergard. Its an extremely in depth look at some Greenland clothing and fiber tool finds, and it makes me want to build a viking age weighted loom! She also has a separate pattern book for the clothing, but I dont own that one so I cant comment though I have heard good things about it too!
Medieval Garments Reconstructed, yes I have it and it's what I'm working from to do my research!
I have a guess for the metal "pin" on the bottom of the distaff. Perhaps they wore a belt with some sort of divot or hole to "rest" the distaff on so they could load it up with fiber without making their arms tired. I would assume they were spinning a lot, which could get heavy.
The whorls used in those times were heavier than these silver solored whorls you got, which do look similar, but due to the weight aren't.
The Vikings had sheep whose wool was very greasy. This is also why this wool was so suitable for the sails of the dragonboats. So the Vikings and all the Germanic tribes had various ways of spinning and also different spindles according to the yarn they were making and for which purpose. They must have used large spindles for wool to be used for the sails of ship and other practicle devicess, and they must have used smaller spindles for yarn used for clothing. In addition, they must have treated the wool differently before spinning to get rid of most of the grease.
You might be interested in the outcome of today's experimental archeology done in Northern Europe, Germany, Austria and Great Britain. Contacting certain museums woud help.
Hi Evie, hope you're OK. Thankyou so much for this update using the Distaff.
I was wondering if you found the Lady here one TH-cam, whi shows this type of medieval Spinning. Sorry can't just recall her name at the moment. At one point in one of her videos she has her Distaff propped up against a wall.( i think she's called Laura Swales).
Love your History of the Distaff and you certainly seem pretty efficient in the amount of yarn you're getting.
Happy Spinning.
Take care and stay safe.
Lots of love Jen 💘 xx
I think that's Lois. Yes, I love her videos too! Thanks for watching!!! 💖🧶😊
What about an apron dress with a special pocket that holds a little tiny wooden bowl fir supported spinning so the spindle shift does not wear in the cloth⁉️🤔
💜💙💚🧡❤💛
Yes! You hit on one of my questions exactly about wear and tear on the cloth! We'll have to see when we get the costume done. I'm excited! 😊🧶💖
I've been struggling with figuring out my oseberg hand distaff and I really hope this helps out! I think another problem I've been having is I have top roving, but no other way of prepping it, so I think some combs may be in my future.
I have top roving that I prepped for distaff spinning and you can do it! Lay it out in strips and fluff them sideways. Did you see the video of the DIY polymer clay spindle whorls? I'm using an Oseberg style distaff in that one and it might give you some ideas for how to spin from that size of a distaff. This Lendbreen distaff is working but still requires more experimentation to get it figured out. My next plans are to flip it over, but I need an apron dress for that to work so I can tuck it in to my dress. 💜🧶🐑
Also, combs are great too and you should totally get some combs! I'm an enabler of all the fiber things! 😁💜🧶🐑
@@JillianEve I haven't seen that one yet! I just started a like....channel binge while at work because I really do want to learn more about spinning instead of just flailing about and hoping it works. (I technically already ordered combs, and they arrived at my mailbox today!)
That distaff is so cool. Check out the people that made it. To have a better look. I was thinking that it could be used like a Navajo spindle "off the leg". I don't know much. Just learning myself
There are some Eastern European videos of dozens of women spinning from paddle distaffs. You can't really hear anything over the singing though. I'd link some but I've recently learned that YT comments with links will get deleted automatically on a random basis. A lot of the videos have "preslica" in the title, which means distaff. and I guess "predenje" means spinning.
google translate recognizes predenje as spinning in slovenian... but doesn't recognize preslica at all. time for me to go down another youtube rabbit hole, lol
@@esmecat Yeah Google Translate is pretty bad for coming up with the fiber definitions. I had to use another site to confirm that preslica was distaff and it was the second definition. Google usually uses the first definition of a word.
Thank you for this! Off I go! 🐇🐇🐇🔍
I looked and the dancing goat is local to me!
Awesome! He does workshops in the area so you may want to check that out! Happy spinning! 💜🧶😄
I am really interested to know whether there is anything that works with the clothes of the time with the way spinning works with that distaff. it would make sense since for a lot of times throughout history innovations in the fashions have come about thanks to practical requirements.
I agree and I wonder what we may discover! 💖🧶😊
i think the bottom of the distaff would rest against a leather belt taking some of the weight.
I'm going to try that when I get my apron dress made! 🧶💖
What if the metal rod on the end was made to fit in a fairly heavy base and turned in the base, so that the distaff could stand on maybe a low table while the person spinning sat on a stool, etc. That way the distaff was able to stand vertically by itself and the person spinning didn’t have to hold the distaff in her hand and could sit down while spinning.
I am a little late to the party. Just got my stick spindles in the mail today! What was the research study? Accent garments?
I’m wondering why the distaff has a pointy end?
I’m pretty sure that prong on the historic one is for sticking into something like a padded knitting belt worn around the waist. This would support the distaff and free up your left hand more. It would then be supported by the crook of your elbow.
ETA……ok….just read below comments…..I’m not the first to think of this……of course!!!
Very interesting content. My 2 cents is that maybe children (beginner spinners ould spin the way you do but eventually this really looks like a supported spindle. Maybe they just spun it directly on a rock or a flat piece of wood?
the thoughts on your costume and pre bits that could be helpful.... why not make a belt as well (not just what might attach)? Sally Pointer has a wonderful video of an 11 strand plat that is a paleolithic replica... but i'm sure they would probably be familiar with platting in viking times. they used enough plat work in their art, for sure.
decided to get a link for that belt video... not sure if it will let me post a link, but if it does, this is the one i meant
th-cam.com/video/1VS-vsuEjUY/w-d-xo.html
Oh that could be lovely! I'm also working on some tablet weaving trim as well, but a plat would be a cool way to use some yarn too! ❤🧶👍
Have you looked at spindle spoons? I've seen some that are tucked into or attached to belts, providing a smooth surface for support spinning on the go. I don't know if they're historically inspired but I've seen them discussed in social media groups the past few years.
Yeah, I really need to do some research there. Maybe someone knows and they can jump in with a comment! 😊🧶💖
Thank you for this interesting videos about this distaff.
Another thought for the metal thing on the end, I couldn't see it in the other video well enough: is it possible that the distaff was simply pocked into earth while spinning, the spinner sitting on earth as well?
For the sound while spinning, you do not do that half notch other spinners do, right? That's nice to hear, as I lately came over spinnen the historical way and the videos I found all showed doing that notch. But I always omit it if I spin that way because for my feeling it only is necessary as long as one is unsure and learning this practice; else this way of spinning feels way more organic and fluent as the modern drop spindle spinning.
take a look at the videos by Ylva the Red, she's another you-tuber looking at similar things. She has a whole series on making apron dresses, spinning, etc. I believe she is with either an SCA group or just a historical demo group, and am pretty sure she's in australia. thanks for sharing your videos, I always enjoy them!
I will thank you! 🧶😊💖
Some thoughts that come to mind…I doubt that they would have had a spinning method that required standing. I think you were standing in order to film the video but I’d like to know if you feel that your method works as well when you are seated? Also, what about the idea of a much longer spindle that can be rolled down the length of the thigh while sitting? I’ve seen yarn being spun that way but I can’t remember where…just an idea. I also think it’s possible that the metal pin on the end of the original distaff could have been to enable the distaff to be stuck into some sort of a stand or block so that it’s more hands free & you wouldn’t have to hold it up so much. And also that would help to enable this activity to be done sitting down. Mainly I think that in attempting to replicate how these ancient tools were used the primary aim has to be efficiency. This wasn’t a hobby or a “fun” activity for these people. They relied on this being a production activity if it was ever going to provide enough yarn for their clothing needs. So they would undoubtedly have developed the most energy and time efficient methods for spinning. Now you just have to experiment to find out what is the simplest and easiest method that can be sustained over the hours and hours they would have spent spinning.
I love all your thoughts! We need to be open minded about how all these tools could have possibly been used.
In regards to the pin being for sticking the distaff in the ground: could it be that they sat on the ground while spinning, so the height of the distaff would then make more sense?
If I am spinning in bed, the sheets are woven tightly enough that if I stretch the sheet across my lap, the fabric forms a really good surface to support spin on. The fabric of my clothing is not usually tightly enough woven to create the same effect, the spindle stick works like an awl while spinning creating a hole without breaking any threads in the fabric. I was wondering, were the apron parts of the dresses tightly woven?
They seem to have been tightly woven with lots of twill variations. 🧶💜🐑
Also, did you look at what type of looms the viking used? I would be interested in that !
Yes! For larger cloth weaving, warp weighted looms were used. I would love to build one for some weaving projects! 🧶🐑💜
I'm still curious about that pin in the end. Your ideas about how it interacts with your clothing and body seem really interesting. Is it possible the pin could have stuck into a cushion or something similar to rest it against your body more comfortably?
Thank you so much for the update. I love seeing the evolution of techniques and tool as you progress with your skills!
Soay sheep is a great primitive breed. They are originally from St Kilda Island in the Scottish Isles. Flocks today still "shed" their fleece (in the right circumstances). Check Etsy if you want to purchase some fiber. I did and it is great!
I have a small bag of Soay! Yes, I should get that out to spin!!!
Jillian Eve, I have enjoyed this episode the most of all your episodes. I was very interested to see the distaff, and would like to either procure or make one to try out. I found the technique to match it was especially interesting to me. I would very much like to see your new garb. I wonder if you have made it by now? I would love to see it. Would you make it in 2/2 twill; broken twill, diamond twill? What ply will you use ? (Im thinking 2 ply)Will you use a natural dye for it ... if so what colour do you wish to get? Too many questions here. Thank you so much for your diligence, I have really enjoyed this.
I'm getting ready to make it. I wanted to do a few sewing projects with commercial fabrics just to get a bit more experience sewing first. I will probably do a diamond twill because it's my favorite but of course I'll have to sample first. I have a fleece waiting for me to get started and it is on the high priority list for 2023!
@@JillianEve I will be looking out for it! See my photos on Diamond Henderson (ACT Australia) on Face Book; of works I have made, in the photo section. Be so nice to meet you at a Viking festival .......perhaps one day! I really enjoy your Vlogs Evie!
The clicking shows you are stretching with too much tension. It should slip gently off the tip. Try a steeper angle.
Add spin, stop and do some tugging, then add a bit of spin, and by tugging and releasing, even out the length oft the drawn fiber, add the final twist, wind on, start wind, stretch, twist and stretch, tug and release, pull a bit, add twidt, etc. You shouldn't be going for a continuous spin like a wheel or drop spindle. Check out some navajo spinning instructions for this technique which will transfer nicely to yours.
Oh!!! This makes sense, I'll give it a try. Thank you so much!
Perhaps the pin was to hold a crosspiece so that when the spinner needed to tend to some other task for a moment, she could tuck her distaff into her belt with less risk of dropping it.
Then one day, on a journey, the crosspiece fell off and they just didn't have the time or materials to replace it. Not such a big deal, she could still push it through her belt, right? But as she was hiking along the Lendbreen pass, busy with something (because otherwise, she'd have her spindle and distaff in her hands), the distaff slipped free and rolled off the trail. Distraction over, she reached for her distaff and... oh no! her distaff was missing!
They spent some time looking for it but never saw it. Maybe it rolled out of sight, maybe they had walked on further than they thought, maybe it was getting close to sunset, all we know is that she never found it.
Great video!!
I just googled mediaeval distaffs, searched for images, and there's (as I recalled) a lot. Some are freestanding poles, others under the arm, anything that works, therefore.
Did you turn this into a 2 ply yarn? I wonder what type of yarn it turned out to be. It looks like it could have been a laceweight.
Wouldn't it be easier to support the spindle? I would think this way is very tiring on your right hand..
It works supported too, but either way, my hand isn't too tired. I think I'm used to the motion of it now. 💖🧶😊
@@JillianEve yes, I tire easily because of surgery on right elbow.
As a non spinner I look at it and think I would hold it under my arm ( armpit).
Ich glaube das große Ding könnte auch sitzend zwischen ein Bein geklemmt werden wegen den etwas dickeren Part unten
try it seated on the floor near a fire,,, i dont think thay would be standing rather i suspect seated or squating
wait...
RU?
as in...
"YOU WILL RU THE DAY!"???
Sorry if i miss spell.
Such a great demonstration! I've been slowly working my way into using a distaff for spindle spinning. I tried a distaff with wheel spinning but it slows me down too much (I'm a big fan of Paula Simmon's "Spinning for Softness and Speed"). I did find a video from the Tipsy Spinster where she uses a spindle spoon in a belt for support spindling while she moves around a festival campground. It's here on her channel The Sip -n- Spin: th-cam.com/video/UDY3mKLg3Is/w-d-xo.html Definitely something I want to try, if I ever get to go back to festivals to find an appropriate hand-carved spoon!
Hold it like a baby... that is how old Romanian women I saw spin it.they can use both hands easily
Really?!? I'll look into Romanian spinning. I never considered holding it that way! Thank you! 😲💖🧶
No prob
-this envious noob.
Your fingers must get very tired!
They did when I first started spinning, but not anymore. I've built up some strength I think. 🧶💖💪
I was watching this video a couple of days ago and was thinking of you and your distaff.
th-cam.com/video/7ej_aEYDHJ0/w-d-xo.html
There are lots of videos in a similar vain to this. I think that when your life was so physically demanding, when you had a task that you could sit down for, you would. It maybe worth a try to see if it fits.
Regarding the wool they most likly used I have heard it came from the Norwegian wild sheep en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Norwegian_Sheep
The sheep breeds that are found in the north sea area all stems from this breed.