This beautifully finished hardwood drop spindle has a 4.5" / 11.5cm whorl and a 12" shaft, and weighs approximately 5oz. It's best suited to spinning bulkier yarns or plying, given the size and weight. Place the whorl on the shaft with the hollowed-out side facing the narrow end of the shaft with the notch. The whorl will stop partway down due to the taper of the shaft. The notch on the shaft helps secure your yarn as you spin by providing something for a half-hitch loop to catch on. Tips and tricks Before placing your half hitch in the notch at the top of the shaft, wind the yarn in a spiral around the shaft as it comes up. This helps keep the half hitch more secure. If you're spinning singles with this spindle, we recommend using it supported to avoid the weight of the whorl from pulling your yarn apart. Use a small bowl or cup if you don't have a spindle bowl.