Supremely Beautiful
Seriously Functional
Textile Tools

Bluster Bay Yarn Swifts

Yarn swifts are most often used to hold a skein of yarn while the yarn is wound into a ball, either by hand or using a ball-winder, or while the yarn is wound onto a bobbin or shuttle. In other words, they are used to unwind skeins of yarn. To wind yarn into a skein from a ball or bobbin, typically a niddy-noddy or other type of skein winder is used.

Our yarn swifts are modern adaptations of traditional, time-tested designs, incorporating new components that improve function and durability.

We currently offer swifts in two distinct styles. To see photographs and detailed information about each style, please click on these links:

• Umbrella Swifts - five styles to chose from!
• Spool Swifts

All Bluster Bay swifts feature:

• The finest quality domestic or imported hardwood, selected for durability and lasting beauty
• Clamp bases with non-marring swivel pads to provide secure clamping while protecting your furniture,
• Threaded shafts mated with threaded metal inserts to eliminate wear commonly associated with wood-against-wood or metal-against-wood threading
• Strong and rust-free bronze, brass, and stainless steel metal components
• Wood components that are carefully fitted and sanded to satin smoothness
• A hand-rubbed oil and wax finish that is simple to maintain and grows more beautiful over time

Currently we are offering swifts made from your choice of black cherry, black walnut, white ash, or rock maple. (See photographs of these woods) We also have small quantities of other, more unusual woods that can be incorporated into small parts such as handles and finials. And, our wood offerings constantly change as we find suitable pieces with lovely figure.

You may choose a single wood used throughout, or may incorporate two or more woods. For example, a maple umbrella swift may be fitted with black walnut slats. Many of our spool swifts are made with one wood for the rotating spools, and another wood used for everything else. Sometimes just the small clamp handles and the finial are a contrasting wood.

An elegant Bluster Bay swift is a graceful addition to any home or studio, and will likely become a cherished family heirloom.

To see photographs and detailed information about each type of swift we make, please click on these links:

• Umbrella Swifts - five styles to chose from!
• Spool Swifts

Bluster Bay swifts are hand-made and each is one-of-a-kind. They are only available directly from Bluster Bay Woodworks. Please see our ordering information.