Looking for the best yarn swift and ball winder set to keep your yarn stash organized? I’ve tried several different options over the years, from affordable plastic winders to gorgeous wooden ones that feel like a work of art. Whether you’re a casual knitter or a full-blown fiber enthusiast, finding the right set can make all the difference.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best options at different price points, discuss the pros and cons of each, and help you choose the perfect setup for your needs. Plus, if you’re in the mood for a new knitting project, check out my free pattern page for inspiration!
Why You Need a Yarn Swift and Ball Winder
If you’ve ever bought a skein of yarn and found yourself sitting on the floor with a tangled mess, desperately trying to wind it into a usable ball, you already know why a yarn swift and ball winder is a game-changer. But if you’re new to the world of yarn organization, let me break it down for you.
1. Prevents Tangles and Knots
Hand-winding a skein without a swift is a disaster waiting to happen. As the skein twists and turns, you’re almost guaranteed to end up with a pile of knots that take hours to untangle. A yarn swift and ball winder eliminate this problem by holding the yarn in place while smoothly feeding it onto the winder.
2. Saves Time
Let’s be real—who has time to spend hours manually winding yarn? Not me! A yarn swift and ball winder take just a few minutes to transform a messy hank into a neat, center-pull cake. This means more time for actual knitting and less time wrestling with yarn.
3. Keeps Yarn Organized
Ever had a half-used skein unravel in your project bag? A yarn swift and ball winder create compact yarn cakes that stack neatly, making storage and transport so much easier.
4. Improves Knitting Tension
When you wind a skein by hand, the tension is usually uneven, which can mess with your knitting gauge. Using a yarn swift and ball winder ensures consistent tension, leading to a smoother, more even knit.
The Best Yarn Swift and Ball Winder Sets
Now that we’ve covered why you need a yarn swift and ball winder, let’s talk about the best options on the market. I’ve tested everything from budget-friendly winders to high-end wooden ones, and here’s what I’ve found.
1. Affordable Metal and Plastic Yarn Winder (Amazon)
I’ll be honest—this is the yarn swift and ball winder I use the most. It’s not fancy, it’s not beautiful, but it gets the job done. Made from plastic and metal, this little workhorse is budget-friendly, sturdy, and comes with a protective plastic case (which I love because it keeps everything safe from curious little hands).
Despite being a more affordable option, it works like a charm. The only downside? It’s not the prettiest thing to look at. But if you’re just looking for something functional without spending a fortune, this is a great choice. (affiliate link)
2. KnitPicks Yarn Swifts
If you want something that looks as good as it works, KnitPicks offers a variety of yarn swift and ball winder options made from beautiful hardwoods. They have umbrella-style swifts in cocobolo, birch, and red padauk, and all of them fold up compactly for easy storage.
KnitPicks swifts spin smoothly and hold up well over time, making them a great investment for serious knitters. They do tend to be pricier than plastic models, but if you value aesthetics and durability, they’re worth every penny. (affiliate link)
3. Amish-Style Yarn Swift
If you’re looking for a swift that doesn’t require clamping to a table, the Amish-style yarn swift and ball winder is a fantastic choice. Instead of the traditional umbrella design, it has a wooden tabletop base with four adjustable arms that hold your skein in place. I had one of these for years (well over a decade) and loved it. Sadly, it was broken in our cross country move 3 years ago.
This style of swift is especially great if you work with a lot of delicate or hand-dyed yarns since it puts less stress on the fibers. Plus, it has a charming, rustic look that I absolutely love. (affiliate link)
4. KnitPro Wooden Ball Winder
Now, if you want to splurge on something truly gorgeous, the KnitPro yarn swift and ball winder is the way to go. Made from polished wood, this winder is not only stunning but also practical—it can handle larger hanks of yarn than most other winders.
If you regularly work with lace-weight or bulky yarns, this is a great option because it allows you to wind bigger cakes without stopping. It’s definitely more expensive than a plastic winder, but if you want something that’s both functional and beautiful, this is a great choice. (affiliate link)
5. KnitPicks Ball Winders
KnitPicks also offers a range of yarn swift and ball winder sets at different price points, from basic plastic winders to more heavy-duty models.
Their entry-level winders are affordable(just $19.99 US!) and great for beginners, while their high-end models are designed for frequent use and larger skeins. If you’re already using a KnitPicks swift, pairing it with one of their winders ensures a seamless yarn-winding experience. (affiliate link)
Choosing the Right Yarn Swift and Ball Winder
With so many great options out there, how do you choose the best yarn swift and ball winder for your needs? Here are a few things to consider:
- Budget: If you’re just getting started, an affordable plastic and metal winder might be the best choice. If you want something long-lasting and beautiful, invest in a wooden model.
- Storage Space: Some swifts fold up neatly, while others (like the Amish-style swift (affiliate link)) take up more room. Consider your space before purchasing.
- Yarn Size: If you regularly work with large hanks of yarn, a high-capacity winder (like the KnitPro model (affiliate link)) will save you time and effort.
- Aesthetic Preferences: If you want a swift that doubles as décor, go for a wooden option. If you just need something functional, plastic and metal winders work just fine.
Final Thoughts
A yarn swift and ball winder are game-changers for any knitter or crocheter. Whether you go with a budget-friendly winder or a high-end wooden set, having these tools in your craft space will save you time and frustration.
If you’ve used any of these sets, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below.
And if you’re in need of some new knitting inspiration, don’t forget to check out my free pattern page for beautiful, beginner-friendly designs!
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This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting my blog!