Yarn-Swift

Nothing excites a knitter, whether a beginner or a pro, like deriving pleasure and comfort from knitting. As knitters, we all yearn for those tools that will make the process easy and quick hence giving us real experience. Among the tools that you cannot afford to lack as a knitter is a yarn swift. This tool grasps your hanks or skeins of yarn in position as you wind them into balls. When using this item, you will not only turn the thread easily and quickly into balls, but you will get to enjoy the process as well.

A knitter needs to get the tools that offer them excellent services, which are of superior quality and also durable. There are many swifts in the market, and you may have a challenge picking the most suitable for you. Trial and error are one of the methods of selecting these items, but it is tedious. Right? It will consume a lot of your time and resources before you can locate what you need. You may even give up along the way. However, you need not worry since this guide will help you to learn about the factors to consider when purchasing these objects, their features, frequently asked questions, and also the best yarn swift. Read on and get enlightened:

Top 6 Yarn Swift In 2021 (Best Picks)

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Factors to consider when purchasing a yarn swift

When purchasing a yarn swift, you need to get the one that will allow you to wind skeins or hanks effectively into perfect balls. The yarn should not tangle when using the tool, which may be hectic. The following factors will be helpful:

  • Personal preference

When choosing a yarn swift, your taste plays a crucial role. You need to decide on how to use it, whether your projects are large or small, the design of the tool, the material making the swift, your working and storage space, and the budget set aside. It is also vital to choose the right material for the item that you prefer.

  • The style

The style of the yarn swift also plays a significant part in selecting it. There are various styles for the swift that include Amish, umbrella, metal wheel/wood base, and umbrella/Amish combinations. The design that you choose depends on whether you knit at home or not and the storage space available. For a home knitter, Amish, also known as a tabletop or the umbrella style, are the ideal choices. They easily collapse to the small size and hence become easy to store and work on. These styles are easy to use since you can place it on a table, bench, chairs, and so on. It is possible to put it on a tree branch and create your balls. 

  • The material

Most yarn swifts are made from durable hardwoods such as maple or birch. Some of these tools have every part, including screws and clamps made from wood, while others are from plastic, metal, or a blend of the two. The material you choose relies on your preferences and the use of this object.

  • The working and storage space

The yarn swift that you pick depends so much on the area that you have for using and storing.  The size of the hanks that will turn into balls will also play a part when selecting this tool. An umbrella swift may use a lot of space when in use but a little area for storage. The swift can collapse into a tiny object just like an ordinary umbrella, and most of the brands come with storage bags. However, the challenge of usage space may be solved by taking the yarn outside and clamping it on a tree branch or porch railing. You should take into consideration the surface that fits the depth of the clamp when picking a clamp-on model.

  • The size of the swift

The size of the hanks or skeins of the yarn you are winding will determine the type of the device chosen. Different brands of threads have varying quantities depending on the spinner, dyer, and the manufacturer’s tools and methods. You will, therefore, need to take into consideration the thread you frequently use and check their dimensions. It is, however, wise to pick the swift with most options in diameter if there are a variety of yarn weights and hank sizes. However, for smaller weight yarns with fewer variations in hanks ranges, lower width expansion range is ideal.

  • Whether you use a yarn winder or not

The amount of yarn that a winder holds will help to determine the swift if you use them together. Some winders hold few ounces while others will handle many, and it is, therefore, necessary to look at how much thread the winder will hold. 

1. Stanwood Needlecraft Wooden Umbrella Swift yarn Winder, Medium

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Stanwood yarn swift is made of solid wood and has an extra smooth finish from fine sanding. It does not produce toxic varnish fumes, and hence it is safe for use. This medium yarn swift holds skeins with up to a circumference of six feet. It is fun to work with since it spins quickly and makes winding easy. The swift can be used on any surface such as table edges, benches, chairs, or any other location that is convenient for the knitter. The device can fit sides of up to 1 ¾ inches thick, and it is crafted in a superior way to prevent having wood pieces with scars or blemishes. The yarn does not break, and it is, therefore, cost-effective to use. You can also never injure your hands when using this swift since the metal tying wires are hidden into holes.

Features

  • Extra fine sanding finish
  • No toxic varnish fumes
  • Spins smoothly hence fu to use
  • Can be used on many surfaces
  • Does not break the yarn since it is smooth
  • Cannot hurt your hands

Specifications

  • Material: solid wood
  • Size: medium
  • Dimension: 23.5 by 3.2 by 3.2 inches

It is ideal for all knitters!

2. Cutehill Umbrella Swift Yarn Winder, Hand Operated Holder

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Cutehill umbrella yarn swift works with a hand-operated ball winder, and it is perfect for laces, yarns, fiber, lines, and other threads. The device has an integral handle which allows it to be used as a winder. The adjustable clamp also permits horizontal, vertical, and angled operation hence making it fun and easy to use. This handy tool holds and feeds skeins of yarns into a yarn winder and creates balls. You can fix this object at the edge of the chairs, benches, tables, or any convenient location since it has a clamp-on base. 

Features 

  • Hand operated
  • Smoothly holds and feeds yarn into winder to make balls
  • Clamp-on base to use on any surface
  • Works smoothly and easily
  • Lightweight and compact for storage
  • Easy to set up

Specification

  • Dimension: 17 by 19 by 21 inches
  • Clip height: 1.69 inches
  • Size: medium
  • Style: umbrella

3. Premium Knitter Yarn Swift 24-inch umbrella Wooden Yarn Ball Winder

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The premium knitter yarn swift is a refurbished item that comes with all accessories included. It is excellent in quality and made from 100% natural concrete birch wood. The tool stands the test of time since it is machined to a high standard. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to set up and permits you to use both hands while winding the yarn into balls. You can easily rotate the swift winder, and it provides a squeak free experience. You can turn the thread into a cake within the shortest time possible. The yarn swift is safe for your hands because of the superior sanding finish. 

Features

  • Excellent quality
  • An ergonomic design 
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Smooth and easy rotation
  • Winds yarn into balls quickly
  • Superior finish due to sanding.’
  • Safe with your hands

Specification

  • Style: umbrella
  • Material: 100% natural solid birch wood
  • Size 24-inch

Perfect for all yarns and winders!

4. Stanwood Needlecraft Tabletop Amish Style wooden yarn Swift

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Stanwood Amish style wooden yarn swift is a tabletop tool that is made of solid wood. The swift has an excellent finish from fine sanding that produces no toxic polish fumes. The item is extra smooth to the touch and does not rip the yarn. You can easily adjust the swift by shifting the pegs to hold several sizes of skeins ranging between 2 ½ – 6 ft in circumference. The bottom of the tool has four non-slip pads that prevent it from moving around the table. It is easy to take up and carry around this device. The swift also spins smoothly and efficiently hence making the winding of the yarn to be fun.

Features

  • Super smooth by fine sanding
  • No toxic varnish fume
  • Does not snag the yarn
  • Easily adjustable
  • Holds firmly on the table without moving
  • Can be quickly taken apart and stored
  • Spins easily and fast

Specification

  • Style: Amish
  • Material: solid wood
  • Skein sizes: between 2 ½ – 6 feet

Perfect choice of yarn swift!

5. Yarn Swift Winder Yarn Ball Winder Knitting Yarn Holder

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This yarn swift by cuteDIY has thick and sturdy metal parts that prevent it from damage and keep it clean. You can easily set up the swift vertically or horizontally as well as mount it on a table together with a yarn ball winder. This tool has an excellent shape, and it is lighter than the wood swift. The item can be clamped on a table that is thinner than 1.75-inches, and this holds it perfectly well, allowing you to spin as you wind the skeins freely. You should clamp the swift on an angular-edged table rather than a rounded one to ensure it anchors firmly, thus preventing slipping when in use.

This metallic metal yarn swift fold up more compact than wooden ones, and it is lighter and easier to use. It has an easily adjustable size that makes it run smoothly, and it can hang off the table if your space is small. The tool is a workhorse that can work with different yarn weights, including lace, aran, heavy wool, and so on. 

Features

  • Thick and strong metal parts
  • Easy to set up either horizontally or vertically
  • Can be set up both vertically and horizontally
  • Lighter than wooden swift and easy to use
  • Easily adjustable size and runs smoothly
  • Perfect for yarns of all weights

Specification

  • Material: metal
  • Style: tabletop
  • Dimensions: 21 x 19 x 17 inches
  • Storage case dimensions: 17.5 x 2 x 2 inches

Ideal for all yarns!

6. Knit Picks Yarn Swift

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This tool is perfect for any crochet enthusiast or knitter as it holds the yarn smoothly in place as you wind them into balls. It is made from long-lasting birch wood and offers a smart and modern design that gives pleasant palpitation to all crafters. The swift has metal hardware to enhance durability, and the metallic screws feature a plastic stopper at the end to protect the table from scratches during clamping. It can fit any surface, counter or table up to 1 ½ inch thick

The swift folds down easily for compact and convenient storage, and you will, therefore, need not worry if your space is small. The simple clamp holds the yarn easily in place on any surface, and the swift opens to fit warmly on most ordinary-sized hanks of yarn.

Features

  • Simple style and natural feel
  • Fits swiftly on any surface, table or bench 1 ½ inches thick
  • Metallic hardware for durability
  • Plastic stopper to prevent scratches

Specifications

  • Material: durable birch wood
  • Style: umbrella
  • Surface thickness: 1 ½ inch
  • Dimensions: 26 x 68 x 26 inches when open

Perfect yarn swift for all knitters and crocheters!

Frequently asked questions about yarn swifts

You may have several questions concerning yarn swifts to help you with your knitting. We have looked at some of them, and their answers, which we feel are of great value to you. Read them and understand more:

  • Is it a must to have a yarn swift as a knitter?

No. It is not a must to have a swift as a knitter, but it makes work easy and fun. The swift holds the hanks or skeins of yarn in place as you wind them into balls or cakes, thus making it quick. You will be able to create several shots within a short period and in essence, knit or crochet faster than when you don’t have this tool. The swift also prevents the yarn from tangling, which can be stressful.

  • Which is the best yarn swift?

The best swift will highly depend on various factors such as personal preferences, material, style, budget, and so on. We have, however, listed six of the best that we feel will stand the test of time. You need to carefully look at the features of each to pick the best that suits your needs.

  • What is an Amish swift?

Amish swift is also known as tabletop yarn swift, and it is a simple wooden style. It consists of a swivel base that has four arms, and it is made of two pieces of wood that cross each other. The four arms have holes in them with removable pegs, which shift position depending on the size of the loop of the skein that is not wound.

  • What are the umbrella swifts?

These are the most common swifts that are made of wood or metal, and they collapse relatively flat for secure storage. The swifts may have a flat base for a tabletop or a clamp to connect to the side of a table while some may be tall enough to stand on the floor. 

  • Can I use a ball winder without a swift?

You don’t need to use a yarn swift if you want to wind a center-pull skein into a ball. However, if the yarn comes in a hank, the ball winder needs to be used together with a swift since it may tangle if you wind it directly. It is, therefore, to decide what yarn to purchase to use or not use the swift.

  • Why should I roll the yarn into balls?

When you roll your hanks or skeins of yarn into balls, it becomes smooth and faster to use. Rolling into balls prevents the threads from tangling, unlike when you use the skeins as you buy them. You will, therefore, knit comfortably without the stress of untangling the yarns every time. Rolling the thread into balls also makes it easy for you to carry then wherever you go if you desire to take your knitting project with you. 

Features of the six best yarn swifts

Though it is not necessarily a must for a knitter to have a yarn swift, having the tool does knitting and crocheting to be both fun and easy. You will also be able to produce more fabrics in a shorter period than when you don’t use one since you will work faster. You may need to pick the perfect swift but lack the time and resources required to do a trial and error hence get stranded. You need not worry because we have researched and compiled a list of the six suitable tools, their features, and benefits. Read on to pick the one that suits your knitting:


Product name  

Features/benefits

Stanwood Needlecraft wooden umbrella swift yarn winder, medium

extra smooth finish spins smoothly locks in place securely and easily easy to use and store since it collapses

Cutehill Umbrella Swift Yarn Winder, Hand operated Ball Winder Holder, Knitting Tool.

Ideal for hand-operated winder
Adjustable clamps Can use with vertical, angled or horizontal operation


Premium knitter yarn swift 24-inches umbrella wooden yarn ball winder

A refurbished product Excellent quality One hundred percent natural solid birch wood Ergonomic design Easy to set up and use Rotates easily

Stanwood Needlecraft Tabletop Amish Style Wooden Yarn Swift

Extra smooth finish by fine sanding Tabletop style No toxic varnish fume Super soft and does not snag the yarn
Easily adjustable

Yarn Swift yarn Winder Yarn Ball Winder Knitting Yarn Holder

Thick and sturdy metal parts Comes with a storage case Lightweight Can be set vertically and horizontally Easy to mount on the table
  Knit Picks Yarn Swift
Made from durable birch wood Natural feel and simple design Clamps easily on any table Durable 

Final words

You can turn your knitting into a fun activity by making it easy and enjoyable to do. With the right tools, you will always yarn for that time that you work on the projects. Winding your yarn into balls is pleasant as it saves on the time that you may use untangling the threads. With a yarn winder, it becomes enjoyable, but when you use a yarn swift, it becomes more relaxing and fast.

A yarn swift helps to hold the skeins of yarn and hanks in place as you wind them into cakes or balls, and it reduces the time taken when carrying out the process. It helps you to create more balls within a short period, and therefore, you will knit more projects. There are various designs of yarn swifts, and it is advisable to learn about each and find out the one that satisfies your needs. For most knitters, the umbrella style is more popular since it is easy to set up and collapse. 

You need to look at the working surface and storage space for you to decide on the perfect swift that will best suit your needs. It is also necessary to look at your budget and purchase the tool that you will afford as well as help to create the balls with ease.

 With the right tools such as yarn swifts, winders, needles, or crochets, you can turn knitting into the most enjoyable activity ever. You will also achieve your objective of generating income, spending your leisure time, gifting family and friends, or averting depression with ease. A yarn swift is a worthy investment that you cannot regret having.

References

Yarn-swift

Last update on 2024-03-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API