I started making spindles because my 27 kids (really we have nine, with seven raised together) all wanted to learn how to spin. My husband ordered a handful of cheap, toy wheel spindles from a seller on Ebay. They were too heavy or too light, they wouldn't spin very long. The kids were frustrated and so was I.

I thought I could do better. So I bought some dowels and toy wheels and bulky cup hooks and some pretty finishes and I made pretty, cheap, toy wheel spindles--that wouldn't spin very long. As my friend Shelly says, "No matter how purty you polish the turd, it’s still a turd."

So I started over. With a boatload of power tools, inexpensive local wood, woodworking medallions, and delicate eye screws, stains, bright colored paints and protective finishes. And they weren’t crap and we could spin. Yay!

Then people suggested I ought to sell them because they weren’t crap--they spin really well and really long. I felt bad about what was out there for the budget-minded… no one should have to try to learn a new craft with crap. So I sell my spindles. I even have stores that sell my spindles. But I can’t make them fast enough to really make much money. I raised a few prices along the way but I won’t raise them more than I already have because they are what they are. And what they should be.

For me, it’s always been more about making new spinners--

(how many times have I heard “I couldn’t spin on spindles, that’s why I have a wheel” or "gave it up entirely"? You more than likely CAN spin on a spindle, just maybe not yet on the spindle you tried–try a different one, different style, different weight. Really, it’s not rocket science…spindling is easy…easier than a wheel even. WITH THE SPINDLE THAT WORKS FOR YOU. I can’t tell you how many times I wish I could jump through the screen and help someone with their stupid spindle.)

--than the money. I know, not a great business plan. But I’m good with it…and if/when I’m not, I’ll stop. Maybe