Weekly Spindle Review - Bog Oak IST

This is a wonderful spindle that won't give up!


Maker: IST
Weight: 16 g / 5/8 oz
Length: 8 1/4" 
Style: Top Whorl
Woods: English Bog Oak/Elm & an Ash Shaft

I fell in love with IST spindles a few years ago when I tried one out in my LYS.  With just one flick these spindles will make it seem like your fibre is spinning on its own.  They are nice and light and spin forever.  I spun this textured batt sample on it and got about 14 yards.  (I should also mention that each of the samples I spin for these reviews will be available for purchase in my Mini Skein section in the shop.)

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The beautiful woods are what always catch my eye first. I couldn't resist this dark/black whorl and  who can say no it an ancient sunken forest? Another bonus with IST spindles is thier notch placement in relation to the hook.  This gives you more options, and sometimes the position of the notch can make the hook hold the fibre a little better. Don't like notches?  No problem, IST gives you the choice.

I really prefer rim weighted spindles because they have a much longer spin time and you don't have to worry about your spindle changing directions on you.  Many IST spindles (like this one) have a brass/epoxy resin band around the whorl to give them some weight.  It not only a beautiful feature but also a benefit in my opinion.  

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The underside of this spindle shows the wonderful attention to detail and the motor that keeps this little spinner going.  This spindle in particular is one of thier smaller ones.  Combining the carved out whorl, the brass band and the size, this spindle makes for an effortless spinning session. You will barely feel the spindle dancing at the end of your fibre.  I can spin for hours with this one. 

Spindle rating:
Length of spin: 23.3 seconds (average of three tests)
Fibre storage ability: Good
Looks: Beautiful
Overall Rating: 9.5/10



I have many IST's in my collection and I haven't had any issues with any of them.  If you are looking for a quality top whorl spindle ... look no further.