Rediscovering the Lost Art of European Distaff Spinning
During the annual conference in 2024, Alice Evans and Jane Hunt joined us for a talk and demonstration of historic distaff spinning, they shared the art history, archaeological and ethnographic evidence for the use of the long distaff to spin wool, from at least 1100 - 1900 CE, and lookat why it was so popular throughout medieval Western Europe. Below is a recap of what they shared.
Spinning, the age-old craft of transforming fibres into threads, has long been associated with the iconic "drop spindle." However, historical evidence suggests that Europe’s spinning traditions were markedly different from the modern interpretation. The technique of distaff spinning, a once-common method, has largely faded into obscurity. Through extensive research and practical experimentation, the group "Thread of Time" is reviving this forgotten art, offering insights into its historical significance and practical advantages.
What is Distaff Spinning?
At its core, distaff spinning involves using a cleft stick (the distaff) to hold fibres, which are then spun into thread using a spindle. This method was the standard across Europe for centuries, as evidenced by depictions in art and literature dating back to the 12th century. Unlike the "drop spinning" method, which relies on suspending the spindle on a long thread, distaff spinning keeps the spindle close to the spinner’s hand or directly in it, allowing for greater control and efficiency.
Tracing the History
The history of distaff spinning is richly documented in medieval art. For instance, a 12th-century carving at All Saints Church depicts Eve spinning with a spindle and distaff, while the 14th-century Holcombe Bible features a detailed illustration of locks of wool being spun from a distaff. Similarly, Peter Bruegel the Elder’s painting The Netherlandish Proverbs (1550s) showcases a woman spinning wool with a distaff tucked under her arm.
These visual records highlight key aspects of the technique:
Distaff Usage: Held under the arm or tucked into a belt, the distaff acted as a third hand, holding fibres in place.
Spindle Positioning: The spindle was kept close to the spinner’s hand, enabling short, controlled spinning.
Thread Orientation: Fibres were drawn diagonally or horizontally from the distaff to the spinning hand, ensuring a smooth process.
The Practical Advantages
Distaff spinning was not just a cultural norm but also a practical choice. It allowed spinners to work efficiently and multitask—as evidenced by historical depictions of women spinning while managing households and caring for children. The method also produced fine, high-twist threads that were strong enough for weaving without requiring plying, significantly reducing labour.
Comparative experiments by "Thread of Time" have shown that distaff spinning can achieve production rates of up to 90 metres per hour—a significant improvement over the 50 metres per hour achieved with drop spinning. This efficiency stems from the unique spindle and whorl designs used in medieval times, which facilitated rapid spinning with minimal effort.
Reviving a Forgotten Tradition
The "Thread of Time" group has meticulously reconstructed this historical technique, drawing on visual records, archaeological findings, and ethnographic studies. In their demonstrations, they use replicas of medieval spindles and whorls to illustrate how these tools were designed specifically for distaff spinning. Unlike modern drop spindles, medieval spindles feature a swelling in the middle and smaller, biconical whorls that enable faster spinning and higher thread twist.
Distaff Spinning Today
While distaff spinning declined with the advent of industrialisation, remnants of the tradition persist in rural areas of Eastern Europe. For instance, Romanian and Bulgarian spinners continue to use large distaffs for wool spinning. These contemporary practices provide valuable insights into the functionality and versatility of the method.
Broader Implications
Reviving distaff spinning is more than a historical exercise; it offers a deeper understanding of Europe’s textile heritage and its economic and social contexts. By reassessing traditional spinning techniques, researchers can challenge outdated assumptions about production rates and labour requirements in medieval textile production. This, in turn, sheds light on broader questions about historical economies, trade, and daily life.
Join the Revival
"Thread of Time" invites spinners, historians, and enthusiasts to explore and experiment with distaff spinning. Resources, including tutorials and data from their research, are available on their website and social media platforms. By engaging with this technique, participants can contribute to an evolving understanding of a once-vital craft.
For more information, visit Thread of Time Spinning or join the "Distaff Spinning Through the Ages" Facebook group to connect with a global community of enthusiasts.