How to Make a PVC Yarn Swift

Build your own PVC yarn swift to simplify winding.

A yarn swift is an adjustable, spinning device used by crafters – especially knitters – to wind off large amounts of yarn. As the swift turns, the yarn is wrapped around the outside of the swift’s legs. For the crafter who is tired of using her knees, kitchen chairs or other household items to wind yarn, an inexpensive PVC yarn swift can provide much longed-for relief.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2-inch PVC four-way cross connector
• Drill
• 5/16-inch drill bit
• Wood square, 4-by-4
• 2 washers, 2-inch, sized to fit carriage bolt
• 5/16-inch carriage bolt and nut, 4 inches long
• 2 wing nuts, sized to fit carriage bolt
• Saw
• 1/2-inch PVC pipe, 4 feet
• 1/8-inch drill bit
• 4 PVC T-Connectors, 3/4-inch
• 3/4-inch PVC pipe, 2 feet
• 4 PVC end caps, 3/4-inch
• 8 PVC end caps, 1/2-inch
• 4 cup hooks

Instructions

Build the base

1. Drill a hole in the center of the cross connector using a 5/16-inch drill bit.

2. Secure cross connector to wood square base using washers and carriage bolt. Assemble items in this order (from base to top): Base, washer, cross connector, washer, bolt. Secure with a wing nut on top and bottom.

3. Cut 1/2-inch PVC pipe into four 12-inch sections.

4. Insert one 1/2-inch section into each side of the cross connector

Build the feet

1. Drill a hole in the center of the bottom of each 3/4-inch T-connector using a 1/8-inch drill bit.

2. Cut 3/4-inch PVC into four 6-inch sections.

3. Insert one 3/4-inch section into each 3/4-inch T-connector and cover open end with a 3/4-inch end cap.

Attach the feet

1. Slide one 3/4-inch connector onto each 1/2-inch section.

2. Cover the end of each 1/2-inch section with a 1/2-inch end cap.

3. Screw one cup hook into the bottom of each T Connector to secure it to the 1/2-inch pipe. The hook should not pierce the 1/2-inch pipe, but will hold the connector and foot in place.

Tips & Warnings

• To adjust the placement of a foot, unscrew the hook, move the foot and replace the hook.

References

• The House at Two Palms: PVC Yarn Swift and Niddy Noddy
• Dictionary.com: Swift