Knitting and crocheting are fun. Winding yarn by hand? Not so much. A good yarn winder and swift can save you time and headaches. They turn messy skeins into neat, usable cakes or balls of yarn. This lets you get right to your project. I’ve tested several sets. Here are my top picks to help you choose.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Stanwood Needlecraft YW-700 Hand Operated Yarn Ball Winder: Best overall, large capacity.
- Lacis Jumbo Yarn Winder: Great for very large skeins.
- U-nitt Horizontal Metal Yarn Swift: Sturdy and adjustable swift.
- Knit Picks Yarn Swift: Budget-friendly, good for small spaces.
- Caydo Yarn Winder and Swift Set: Affordable combo, good starter set.
Top 5 Best Yarn Winder and Swift Reviews
1. Stanwood Needlecraft YW-700 Hand Operated Yarn Ball Winder
The Stanwood YW-700 is a workhorse. It winds large quantities of yarn without issue. This winder is known for its durability and smooth operation. I’ve used mine for years, and it still works like new.
Pros:
- ✅ Winds very large yarn balls.
- ✅ Durable construction.
- ✅ Smooth and quiet operation.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey.
- ❌ Takes up some storage space.
- ❌ Clamp might not fit all table edges.
Verdict: The Stanwood YW-700 is a great investment. It is perfect for serious knitters and crocheters who wind yarn frequently.
2. Lacis Jumbo Yarn Winder
Got a massive skein of yarn? The Lacis Jumbo Winder is your friend. This thing can handle huge amounts of yarn. It’s built tough to manage the weight and bulk. You’ll be able to wind huge hanks with this tool.
Pros:
- ✅ Extra-large capacity.
- ✅ Sturdy construction.
- ✅ Good for bulky or novelty yarns.
Cons:
- ❌ Very large and bulky itself.
- ❌ May be overkill for small projects.
- ❌ Can be slower than smaller winders.
Verdict: Choose the Lacis Jumbo if you regularly work with very large yarn skeins. It’s a specialized tool for big projects.
3. U-nitt Horizontal Metal Yarn Swift
A good swift holds your yarn skein while you wind. This metal swift from U-nitt is very sturdy. It’s horizontally oriented and adjustable. This lets you work with different sizes of skeins. I find metal swifts to be more durable than wooden ones.
Pros:
- ✅ Very stable and durable.
- ✅ Adjustable to fit different skein sizes.
- ✅ Smooth rotation.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than plastic or wood options.
- ❌ Can be heavy to move around.
- ❌ Assembly can be a bit tricky.
Verdict: If you want a swift that will last, go with the U-nitt metal swift. It is a solid choice for serious crafters.
4. Knit Picks Yarn Swift
On a budget? The Knit Picks Yarn Swift is a solid pick. It’s affordable and gets the job done. This swift is also lightweight. It is easy to store when not in use. Don’t expect the same durability as more expensive models, though.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable.
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to store.
- ✅ Simple to use.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as other options.
- ❌ May wobble with larger skeins.
- ❌ Can be a bit noisy.
Verdict: The Knit Picks Yarn Swift is a great entry-level option. It is perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget.
5. Caydo Yarn Winder and Swift Set
Want a complete set? The Caydo Yarn Winder and Swift Set is a good starting point. It includes both a winder and an umbrella swift. The price is reasonable. Quality is decent for occasional use. For the price, it’s hard to complain. It got me started years ago!
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable set.
- ✅ Includes both winder and swift.
- ✅ Easy to assemble.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the most durable option.
- ❌ Winder capacity is limited.
- ❌ Swift can be wobbly with large skeins.
Verdict: The Caydo set is perfect for beginners. It’s also suitable for those who only wind yarn occasionally.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right yarn winder and swift can be tough. Here are some things to consider.
- Capacity: How much yarn do you typically wind? Choose a winder and swift that can handle your usual skein sizes.
- Durability: Look for sturdy materials. Metal and hardwood are generally more durable than plastic.
- Ease of Use: A good winder and swift should be easy to set up and operate. Look for smooth rotation and secure clamps.
- Size and Storage: Consider how much space you have. Some winders and swifts can be quite large.
- Price: Set a budget. There are options available at various price points.
- Type of Yarn: Think about the types of yarn you work with. Bulky or novelty yarns may require a more robust winder and swift.
- Manual vs. Electric: Most home crafters will be fine with a manual winder. Electric winders are really only for yarn stores or those who wind yarn professionally.
- Swift Type: Umbrella swifts are common and collapse for storage. Amish-style swifts are simple and sturdy. Horizontal swifts take up more space but can be very stable.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about yarn winders and swifts.
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Q: What is the difference between a yarn winder and a swift?
A: A yarn winder turns yarn into a cake or ball. A swift holds the yarn skein while you wind it. They work together to make the process easier.
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Q: Do I really need both a winder and a swift?
A: While you *can* wind yarn without a swift, it’s much easier with one. A swift keeps the yarn from tangling. It also allows for even tension as you wind.
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Q: Can I use a yarn winder for all types of yarn?
A: Most yarn winders can handle a variety of yarn weights. Very delicate or fuzzy yarns may require extra care. Always test a small amount first.
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Q: How do I clean my yarn winder and swift?
A: Wipe them down with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals. For wooden models, you can use furniture polish occasionally.
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Q: How do I assemble a yarn swift?
A: Most swifts come with instructions. Generally, you’ll need to extend the arms and tighten the screws. Make sure it’s stable before using it.
Conclusion
A yarn winder and swift are essential tools for knitters and crocheters. They make yarn management easier. They also save you time. Consider your needs and budget when choosing a set. Any of the products above will make your crafting life better.
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