Bead spindles are designed to be fast and easy to flick, and are meticulously balanced with hidden brass pins. These spindles can be ordered with either a maple or walnut shaft, and one of a variety of woods for the whorl.
The spindles range in weight from approximately 1/2 to 1 oz (14 to 28 grams). The approximate weight of a spindle with a whorl made from each type of wood is shown in the 5th photo (the choice of shaft wood does not affect the overall weight, as walnut and maple are similar in density). All spindles are approximately 10 1/2" to 10 3/4" (~27 cm) long, with a spinning tip diameter equivalent to a US size 3 knitting needle. Shorter or longer spindle shafts (up to 11") are available upon request.
Spindles with whorls made from heavier woods will tend to spin longer but take slightly more effort to flick. However, due to the precision balance, all spindles spin for what many customers consider to be a surprisingly long time.
The images provided for the different types of woods are to give a general idea what each type of wood looks like. Variation is inherent both in wood and in handmade items and should be expected. The spindles shown in the photographs are examples of a bead spindle made in those types of woods and are not the spindle you will receive.
Please note additional customization such as painting, pyrography, dyeing or carving is not available for these spindles.
Please allow up to 6 weeks for your order to be shipped, at which time you will receive tracking information via email.
*Spindles made from woods marked with an asterisk (i.e. rosewoods) cannot be shipped internationally due to CITES regulations.