I almost feel like the 8th model in my Supported Spindle Fashion Show needs no introduction. This spindle – my Spanish Peacock pu yok – has been on this blog several times and even my YouTube channel, so if you’ve been following for a while, you may already be familiar with its charms!**
(I also used it for my supported spinning demonstration at Shenandoah Valley Fiber Festival last year, but alas, I have no photos.)
This particular pu yok was created as a prototype. Whenever Mike tries something new, I get to be the guinea pig. (It’s good to be the Peahen!) He has since turned and sold many other spindles of this type, but I will always love this one best.
Pu yoks are a variation of the Tibetan spindle, with a wide, flat whorl rather than the typical cup-shape (for Spanish Peacock Tibetans, anyway – all spindle makers have their own twist). Mike hollows out the whorl just slightly, to create the rim-weighted effect his best spindles are known for, which increases the momentum and length of spin.
The width of the whorl means more weight is distributed away from the shaft, meaning the pu yok is relatively slow compared to a narrow whorl (like a ninja or bead, for instance). But as much as I love fast spindles, I love this one for how long and slow it spins.
Slow?
Yes! This is one of my favorite spindles to demonstrate with because its languid movements mean my hands can move slower to keep pace. This makes it easier for people to observe the mechanics of my hand motions, versus when I spin with a ninja.
The pu yok also features a longer shaft than a bead or ninja, 12.5″ long rather than 11″. Many pu yoks sold through the Spanish Peacock site have an even longer shaft, at 13″. This means I can pack even more yarn onto the spindle, which is especially helpful when plying.
Despite the wide whorl and longer shaft, this particular pu yok only weighs 21 grams thanks to the wood selection – cherry for the whorl and walnut for the shaft. This allows me to use it for even longer before my hand strength gives out.
Two more “models” after this one! Stay tuned to see the next supported spindle in my top ten favorites! And if you missed the original fashion show, you can still find it on Facebook too!
**If you doubt the fame of this spindle, here are the other blog posts which include it:
The Peahen's Pod 