Spinning cotton?

[Gran]

I've been thinking of taking up spinning, and am hoping Jimbo will be selling spindles soon.

 

I'd like to spin cotton. Anyone care to post some experiences with cotton?

[RebeccaVelasquez]

spinning cotton is more difficult than spinning wool. the fibers are much much shorter and have to be spun very tightly (fast). i use a tahkli support spindle to spin cotton. unless you have a lace flyer, it is very hard to spin cotton on a wheel. i've never tried using a spindle..... my guess is that it would be just about impossible, though:(

 

HTH;)

[Gran]

Rebecca, thanks for your post!. I ordered a Tahkli and am awaiting its arrival. And then I eyed the apple support spindle at www.woolery.com. Hope it catches on with me.

[YarnandYoga]

My daughter-in-law visited at Christmas and brought me a drop spindle. I love it, but wanted to try spinning cotton too. So, I have purchased a "Charka" spinning wheel (made in India - it is the kind that Mahatma Gandhi used). I haven't gotten it yet, but can't wait to try it. It is supposed to be used only for cotton and very fine lambs wool.

[Gran]

Just found this website. It's got some good info on it. I'm using a 3/4 ounce- top whorl spindle rather than a support spindle or a wheel.

http://www.cottonspinning.com/index.htm