Drop spindle

A drop spindle is a prehistoric tool used to make yarn and thread. Spindles are made up of a shaft (stick), whorl (weighted disk) and sometimes a notch or hook. It is actually one of several types of spinning implements, (other types include supported spindles, spinning wheels, and kick spindles) and was commonly used to spin wool and other animal fibers. It is used by first flicking or rolling the spindle, and then thinning the fiber and slowly allowing the twist into it in a process known as drafting.