A Closer Look at the Smooth Short Draws of Worsted Spinning

Worsted yarns give us that crisp definition that makes knitted cables stand out beautifully. They allow the natural sheen of longwool or silk fibres to shine, and when plied, the result can resemble a strand of pearls. Spinning a consistent worsted yarn is something others can’t help but admire. This is why we wanted to dedicate a post just to short worsted draws!

For this tutorial, we welcome back Katrina Stewart. Her Spinning Up a Level course at the School of SweetGeorgia continues to be a favourite, and for good reason. Katrina offers clear and thoughtful instruction, breaking down various spinning draws, plying techniques, and tips for consistency. Her workbook lessons show how even the smallest changes in our spinning habits can lead to real transformation. Many members return to this course after a year or two of spinning and find renewed inspiration and noticeable growth in their skills.

In this video, Katrina walks us through short forward and short backward draw. Many of us begin with a short forward draw, often called the “inchworm” method, as we build confidence, drafting just a little at a time. With only a small shift in hand motion, Katrina shows how to move into the short backward draw, which many spinners find offers greater consistency.

Below the video, you’ll find step-by-step instructions with photos, plus a link to explore more of Katrina’s courses and articles, and how you can join the SweetGeorgia community.

Materials & Tools Shown 

  • Spinning tool of choice
  • Spinning Fibre

More About Katrina Stewart

Katrina shares the staple length
Find staple length and drafting tips in the notes below the How-To.
Print

Short Forward & Backward Draw

In both styles of short-forward draw, the drafting triangle sits between your hands. Twist does not enter the drafting triangle. It stays contained between your two hands.

Equipment

  • 1 Spinning Wheel

Materials

Instructions

Short Forward Draw

  • With the backhand stationary, use the right hand to draft the fibre forward. Use your fingers to pinch the twist, stopping it from entering the drafting triangle.
  • As you spin, you smooth the yarn with your front hand as you draft forward and slide it back to the fibre supply hand.
  • Note: This method can sometimes lead to inconsistency if you draft too far forward and unintentionally pull past the staple length.

Short Backward Draw

  • With a short backward draw, your fibre supply hand moves back at the same time as your front hand moves forward.
  • The movement is in tandem, keeping the drafting triangle stable.
  • After moving back a few times, feed the yarn forward to the wheel and onto the bobbin.
  • Note: This technique can result in slightly more consistent yarn than short forward because the motion helps prevent overextending the fibre.

Notes

Staple Length & Drafting Tip

Staple length refers to the average length of the individual fibres in your supply. When spinning, aim to draft only about two-thirds of the staple length. Always leave a small portion of fibre connected to the rest before pulling more out. This overlap helps create a smoother transition and contributes to a more consistent yarn.

Need More Help?

Do you have questions about short worsted draws? If you’re an All-Access School of SweetGeorgia member, join us in our Community Forums! One of the great perks of being an All-Access member is the opportunity to ask Katrina Stewart questions about their articles and courses and connect with fellow members.

Not yet a member of the School? We invite you to come and see what it is all about! Use the code: EXPLORETHESCHOOL to save 15% on an All-Access monthly membership!

We welcome you to join us in our SweetGeorgia Community. This is where we share projects that inspire, have fibre-filled conversations, host make-alongs, and participate in a variety of virtual meetings! We discuss all things knitting, crocheting, spinning, weaving, machine knitting, and more!

Together, we share, learn, and grow as a community. We would be happy to have you join us!

Original publication: October 12th, 2022; Refreshed: August 19th, 2025  

The post A Closer Look at the Smooth Short Draws of Worsted Spinning appeared first on SweetGeorgia Yarns.



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