Best weaving ball winders according to redditors

FYI, I've had this one for more than a year, and it's held up like a champ. I got it for $15. It's now $10.

I actually got it at my LYS. It came in a generic white box that says wool winder without a particular brand stated. I am pretty sure they sell the same/similar winders on amazon, though.


Here is a link to one I found on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00R7GGTCI/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1502738012&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=wool+winder&dpPl=1&dpID=41ep3AiS-tL&ref=plSrch

Yarn Swift. There's two kinds: an Umbrella swift, and an Amish swift. The ubmrella swift has a mechanism that "opens up" like an umbrella, and holds your hank in a loop. They usually attach to a surface like a countertop or tabletop. The Amish swift doesn't attach to a counter or table, but rests upon it, and has little "arms" that holds your hank in an open loop. You stick your hank on the swift, then cut the ties (don't cut the ties before it's on the swift, that's asking for trouble), then use a ball winder or your hands to form your ball/cake/whatever.

As long as you cut the ties AFTER the yarn is on the swift, you should have a relatively easy time. Though, that assumes that the dyer/manufacturer of the hank didn't screw it up when dyeing and or tying the hank. But if the dyer/manufacturer screwed up, there's not much you can do about that, swift or no swift.

Knitpicks https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Picks-Yarn-Ball-Winder/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1549167430&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=knitpicks+yarn+winder&psc=1#

Make sure to get one that can handle large quantities if your skeins run higher than 300-400 yards or you've got a lot of bulky yarn.

I've got one similar to this and I love it.

I get mine to look like that using this:
https://www.amazon.ca/Housweety-fiber-string-Winder-Hand-operated/dp/B00DORAE9I/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1523916415&sr=8-3&keywords=yarn+winder

It's especially handy for when yarns don't come with a centre pull! Neat little yarn cakes every time!

It’s actually sold by Knit Picks through Amazon, just FYI, but good to know anyway!. Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_75X3Cb6KH6JBT

Do you have a swift too? I find most of my frustration comes from dealing with the hanks without the swift.

That said, I have a winder off amazon that I really like.


(High Speed) LAMXD Needlecraft Large Jumbo Metal Yarn/Wool/String/Fiber Ball Winder Hand Operated,10-Ounce,with Thread Cutter Scissors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D54LTXG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CuIJDbS9ACSZT

https://www.amazon.com/LXD-Needlecraft-Operated-10-Ounce-Scissors/dp/B07CMY13DG/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?keywords=yarn+winder&qid=1554118563&s=gateway&sr=8-7

I have owned two yarn winders before finding my true love. The first was from Knit Picks, it broke after seriously 3 balls. Knit Picks was pretty reasonable and gave me a full amount store credit. The second was some cheap-o off Amazon, which ended up teaching me about exposed gears eating yarn. Yeah, expensive LYS hanks got eaten. I cried and died a little on the inside. The Knitters Pride is amazing! Smooth turning, so far has lasted through rewinding all my stash plus it makes really even cakes.

For a swift I own Knit Picks it has lasted without issues.

Also, I travel a lot which means limited room for yarn/goodies so owning a winder helps me manage packing yarn up better for travel. Plus, once caked I can store more yarn at home too.

(Edit: To suggest winders are worth every penny)

Her colors are gorgeous! I’ve loved everything I’ve gotten from her so far!

I got the set off amazon. It seems pretty good but these are the only two I’ve done so far. Yarn Ball Winder and Yarn Umbrella Swift (with Skein Holder) Basic Combo Set

I like using unbrella swifts, but that's because it's the only one I've ever used. I also don't own any (my LYS has one and lets customers use it anytime), but if I did I'd own this ball winder (Nancy's Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Ball Winder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039ZGFWU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_tFhVzbYVQBQBG) and a regular unbrella swift.

someday I'll be able to drop insane amounts of money on my hobbies

Not certain but it could be used for weaving bobbins; https://www.amazon.com/Glimakra-Swedish-Bobbin-Winder-Quills/dp/B00HB8ROIU

U-nitt Red Handle Metal Jumbo Large Yarn/Wool/String/Fiber Ball Winder Hand Operated 10 oz ML702 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JMO8A10/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KlwWBbHQ8QYBC

I've had this for years and its served me well! Its large and a bit clunky, and a little loud, but maybe I like it so much bc I can relate to it hahahaha. Seriously though, it really works well and its built solidly.

There are also cheaper versions but I like the extra arm on this one, it helps keep the cakes spooling correctly.

A ball winder and swift is the best investment I’ve made! Especially now that I buy lots of hanks. Here is the ball winder I have and here is the swift I use.

You can watch any YouTube video for instructions, but a very important tip. Never cut the ties before you put the hank on the swift!! Good luck!

I have a swift similar to this one: Amish Style Wooden Yarn Swift

It isn't the fanciest thing in the world, and generally I prefer using the upright ones, but it gets the job done, and it's really portable since it breaks down into individual straight pieces and can be kept in a bag.

As for a winder, I would *not* recommend this one or anything similar: Marrywindix Ball Winder

It's extremely unsteady, the yarn feeder needs to be held in place while you're using it, and yarn constantly slips and winds up wrapping around the top/bottom, and generally becoming a tangled mess.

Honestly, though, I got a super inexpensive swift on amazon, and a KP winder. Best investment ever.


https://www.amazon.com/Cutehill-Umbrella-Operated-Knitting-Winding/dp/B00VGD39O4/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=ppx_yo_mob_b_inactive_ship_o0_img

https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Picks-Yarn-Ball-Winder/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=yarn+winder&qid=1573524391&s=arts-crafts&sr=1-4

So if you have prime, or know someone with it, for $30 you've got your setup

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JMO8A10/?tag=sewingdeals1-20 this one is on my wishlist, and came recommended by a few fiber arts sites I frequent, but I haven't actually used it yet.

To throw out one that is not great, just so you know what to avoid -

I went real cheap with this one from Amazon and while it technically works, it's really not a pleasant experience. The little wire piece that you run the yarn through before it goes onto the actual winder part just doesn't stay put. It's collapsible and likes to collapse midway through all the time. Basically have to hold it in place with one hand and crank the thing with the other.

EDIT: Apparently it was my own silly user error! I did not realize how firmly I need to pull it out, until it clicks a second time to lock it in place. I retract my previous statement. That cheap winder works just fine in light of this new information!

Lol... just a hair tie holding 3 inch stuffed toy cats onto a plastic post that spins when you crank the handle. The force of the spin sends them flying off.

Very different than what you are probably picturing.

this is the device

alternatively, there's some cheap yarn swifts on amazon - I bought this one https://www.amazon.com/Cutehill-Umbrella-Operated-Knitting-Winding/dp/B00VGD39O4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1539610044&sr=8-2&keywords=yarn+swift . Its definitely not the greatest swift in the world but it does the job surprisingly well

I use 4 of these pegboard squares to hang the yarn I'm currently working with. The rest of my stash goes in boxes to keep the dust out.

If you're looking for xmas gifts, also consider a yarn winder
or yarn bowl.
I had a ceramic yarn bowl, but the husband accidentally knocked it off the table. I'm using a mixing bowl for now, but am considering a bamboo replacement.
Good luck. Let me know if you need more info or ideas.

Thanks! I use the knitpicks ball winder. This one in particular! I do hold tension on my yarn while winding and I bent the metal holder to fit the large ball lol Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_p.HPCb2F75KKG

A swift is only necessary if you are winding hanks of yarn. I would be afraid the yarn would tangle without a swift if winding a hank. There's a relatively inexpensive swift on Amazon here: Umbrella Swift I have it and while no, it isn't as visually attractive as the nice wooden ones, it works very well and stores easily.

Hi! Thanks! I use this It’s $19.99 on Amazon, very affordable. It’s nice to have the right tools.

This is the one I got for my birthday that works really well if you need it. But hopefully that isn’t the case.
https://www.amazon.com/Yarn-Ball-Winder-Craft-Destiny/dp/B07FNZ4TQ9/ref=asc_df_B07FNZ4TQ9/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=242046133612&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=415934909828121041&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006755&hvtargid=pla-573031031202&psc=1

I like mine, it seems a lot sturdier than the ones that don't have the clamp on the bottom with a wingnut. Haven't seen the KP one irl, though.

Your best bet is Amazon. I'm in the UK so hobbycraft would be my go to if I was looking for a physical shop or wool warehouse, lovecrochet and Amazon for online. I find Amazon better for your hooks and accessories rather that yarn itself, hope this helps.

Edit: yarn winder on Amazon, https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Knitting-Crochet-Operated-Hand-operated/dp/B00C4THS6O

Another thought would be a yarn bowl, loads of diffrent styles and there are some nice ones on etsy.

I just got this about 2 months ago. It's not fantastic, but it wound a whole Rubbermaid tote packed full of tangled and partial skein of yarn into nice little easily stored cakes without a problem. It's cheaply made, but gets the job done.

http://www.amazon.com/Housweety-fiber-string-Winder-Hand-operated/dp/B00DORAE9I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394586394&sr=8-2&keywords=yarn+winder

Similar to mine-Marrywindix Bobbin Winder Yarn Winder Table Clasp, Hand Operated Manual Wool Winder Holder for Swift Yarn Fiber Ball https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R7GGTCI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xnjvDbN7GP0VX

Is this the one?

https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Picks-Yarn-Ball-Winder/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?keywords=knitpicks+yarn+winder&qid=1554558644&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

I always put yarn like that on this to wind it into a ball:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00VGD39O4/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1526908602&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=yarn+winder&dpPl=1&dpID=5171tQEelnL&ref=plSrch

He says he ordered it on Amazon...this is the model. Holy cow, it's high quality. It even came with tools and extra parts.

I recently purchased this one from amazon.

This one -> https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00O3GHFA0?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title

I have the Knit Picks winder, which works wonders for me.

Recently got a swift and it's not the most amazing thing but it was $16 which is right in my price range! Here is the Amazon link.

I got this swift because another reddit user commented that they got it and it's worked for them for three years. Obviously because it's plastic and thin metal you need to be careful when using it and store it safely, but it fits right back in the box and I love it so far.

I have and love and recommend the Knitter's Pride Natural Mega Wool Winder.

https://smile.amazon.com/Knitters-Pride-KP800372-Natural-Winder/dp/B078JLKCG4/

I have this one and I love it, I found mine on ebay used for only 10 bucks. Just be careful not to go too ridiculously fast otherwise nice softer yarns can fly off. It works like a charm though.

https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Picks-Yarn-Ball-Winder/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=yarn+winder&qid=1550710566&s=arts-crafts&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1

Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3GHFA0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I've used this pretty frequently and it's amazing for the price. I've had no issues with it and I've done my whole collection of yarn with this.

I tried looking for the one I bought on amazon but it looks like they no longer sell it. But I did some searching and found two:

1. This one looks pretty similar to mine and has good reviews so if it’s anything like mine it’ll be great.
   
   Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O3GHFA0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_2WO5BbZCAERFF
   
   
2. If you’re looking for a fancier one, this one is more expensive but the reviews say it’s the best thing ever.
   
   Stanwood Needlecraft Large Metal Yarn/Fiber/Wool/String Ball Winder, 10-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0078T6KQY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5NO5BbBJGNRE5
   
   The one complaint I have about mine (and I’m not sure there’s really a product that would do any better) is that sometimes when you’ve wound a big cake if you try to wind too much the whole thing will just fly off...so I wish it had some sort of cap that would keep it from doing that. But I mean as long as you slow down once it starts getting big it’s fine. I suppose it wouldn’t be too hard to come up with a quick fix at home, I just haven’t put any effort into that myself.
   
   Good luck!!! 😀

I just can't remember what it does not, its slightly bigger than a flush toilet. Could be used for weaving bobbins; https://www.amazon.com/Glimakra-Swedish-Bobbin-Winder-Quills/dp/B00HB8ROIU. i have a number below the counter top brewer.

I got one yesterday! This one:
https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Picks-Yarn-Ball-Winder/dp/B00O3GHFA0

It's working fine for me so far :) There are picture of the cakes in the reviews

I asked for a set of pom pom makers, a yarn winder, a nice-looking yarn tote, a set of blocking mats, and some awesome crochet books!

I don't know about specific brands, but I know the style where its angled is preferred (like this https://www.amazon.com/Vktech%C2%AE-String-Winder-Holder-Operated/dp/B00DKW9F6A ). The one's where its straight the the guide arm moves have a tendency to pop out of place.

My first was a basic Michaels, $29.99 winder. It fell off the table, and some tiny connecting piece snapped on the inside.

What are your suggestions for my second winder?

EDIT: I was looking at this.

I have this one.

http://www.amazon.com/Vktech-String-Winder-Holder-Operated/dp/B00DKW9F6A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1408078928&sr=8-2&keywords=yarn+winder Its under $18 US.

I love it. I when I am done with a ball of yarn and there is a space in the middle I just wind it into a ball again. It works so well. I have not had to deal with tangled yarn since.