Drop spindle spinning vs European suspended Spinning

A short video on two different types of suspended spinning:
Drop spindle spinning which is popular with modern crafters and
European style suspended spinning.

I show both styles with a distaff, but the distaff is only required for the European style.

The spindle can drop down from the hand during the European style, but the thread caught on the loose weave wool of my sleeve so didn't.

I am a medieval re-enactor and participate in living history events, this video was taken at a casual gathering held at the grounds of Abbey Medieval Festival, hence the background has some modern items, such as cars. I participate every year at Abbey Medieval Festival so check my Facebook or blog closer to July to see when I will be demonstrating.

My dad was quite chuffed to tell me after he 'photo bombed' my video on his jousting horse, Merlin.

[freyaspins]

seeing the 'european style' on video, those old spindles make so much more sense! If one hand is always near the spindle, having to turn it more often doesn't slow you down and there is no need for the rim weighted spindles that spin forever. Thank you!

[eileenfb]

Thank you for showing us the comparison. It makes such sense. I'm just learning and finding it frustrating having to keep stopping and starting - the European style goes more smoothly - I will concentrate on that from now on but must get a distaff - or a stick so I can do it easier. Thank you

[dinkburns]

Excellent!! If I can get my hands on a medieval weighted spindle, I will try suspended spinning. It all depends on the tool. I love my support, short fibre spindles, but have a few drop spindles. Looks like you've mastered the Europeon spindle. THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS!!

[partyfiesta]

Awesome! That explains everything now for me! I always found French spindles a bit weird now I get why they’re shaped this way!

[HPLNTV]

Thank you for the video! I was born in Europe, and I've seen this method as a child several decades ago. But I moved to the US in mid-90's. I got curious to find this method recently, and I only saw "American" style and all kinds of supported spindles. Now I know what to look for :)

[pamrambin]

Interesting video, I learned how to spin using a charkha, also one handed drafting, I find “the American “ way easier. I am new at spinning and am hoping to master one handed drafting. Very informative, thanks fir the video.

[DebraJHayward]

I don’t understand how this works without the half hitch.