The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

DISTAFF

A distaff was the first instrument employed in spinning. It consisted of a staff, on one end of which the wool or flax was rolled. The spinner held it in the left hand, and drew out the fibres with the right, at the same time twisting them. A small piece of wood called a spindle was attached to the thread, the weight of which carried it down as it was formed. When the spindle reached the ground the thread which had been spun was wound round it, and it was then again fastened near the beginning of the new thread.
Research Distaff