Spindle whorl

A spindle whorl is a disc or spherical object fitted onto the spindle to increase and maintain the speed of the spin. Historically, whorls have been made of materials like amber, antler, bone, ceramic, coral, glass, metal (iron, lead, lead alloy), and wood (oak). Local sourced materials have been also used, such as chalk, limestone, mudstone, sandstone, slate, and soapstone. One of the most famous spindle whorl artists is Susan Point.

Spinning with a whorl (c) on a spindle (b) and distaff (above)