Kromski Nostepinne

Center-pull balls without a machine — the nostepinne explained

A center-pull ball is one from which the yarn can be drawn from the inside — the ball doesn't roll away, doesn't spin, and the yarn doesn't tangle. Most ball winders that can do this are electric devices or hand-cranked winders with a clamp. The nostepinne is the older method: a simple wooden stick you wrap the yarn around at an angle — and which, when pulled out, produces a ready-to-use center-pull ball.

It's not a trick that requires much practice — after two or three attempts, the technique is mastered. And the result is a compact, upright ball that unwinds calmly and neatly when knitting or weaving.

Material and finish

The Kromski Nostepinne is turned from European alder — the same wood as the brand's spinning wheels. The light, grippy stick sits well in the hand and has the right length to wind even larger balls. Available in four wood finishes, it matches the rest of the accessories visually.

Frequently asked questions about the Nostepinne

How do you wind with a nostepinne?

Secure the yarn at the top of the stick (tuck it in or wrap once), then wrap the yarn diagonally over the stick — always in the same direction, with a slight rotating movement of the stick in the other hand. After a few layers, an oval ball begins to form. When the desired size is reached, pull out the starting yarn and slowly unscrew the stick. The finished ball can be drawn from the inside.

What is the difference from a normal ball winder?

A ball winder with a yarn guide does the same thing faster and with more control — but it is an additional device that needs space and a clamp. The nostepinne needs no table, no clamp, no electricity — it fits in any bag and works anywhere. For occasional rewinding or when travelling, it is the most direct solution.

What yarn quantities is it suitable for?

For small to medium quantities — typically a single handspun skein or a 100 g ball of wool. For very large quantities (500 g and more), a ball winder is more efficient. The Kromski nostepinne is sized for typical handspinning quantities.