Top 15 Best Yarn Winder To Buy

Using a yarn winder will make your life much easier. It’s a handy tool that saves time and makes knitting more enjoyable. Every knitter needs a yarn winder in their life.

If you use a yarn winder, your stash will never look messy again, I promise. Winding yarn into cakes will make your stash look tidy. But picking the best yarn winder isn’t that easy.

With so many types of yarn winders available on the market, choosing the right one can be a scary task. You can pick from electric yarn winders and wooden, manual yarn winders.

Knitting technologies like this benefit avid knitters who’re looking for a faster and more efficient way to complete their projects. That said, let’s review some yarn winders.

What is a Yarn Winder?

A yarn winder is a handy tool that makes knitting easier. It allows knitters to create beat center-pull yarn cakes also called ‘balls’. It’s a cheap alternative to hand-winding yarn.

How to Choose the Best Yarn Winder?

You can pick from countless yarn winder brands out there. They’re all competing to grab your attention. If you’re new to this, choosing the best yarn winder can be a struggle.

However, I’m here to help! Follow the next features when shopping for a yarn winder and you will select the product that meets your knitting needs and expectations in no time.

Yarn Capacity

The first thing to consider when shopping for yarn winder is the maximum yarn capacity. This represents the maximum weight of yarn that your yarn winder can grab.

Low-quality yarn holders usually hold between 3.4-4 ounces of yarn. Yarn winders produced by premium brands, on the other hand, can hold up to 16 ounces if not more.

If you’re a keen knitter with larger projects in mind, then you should think about choosing a yarn winder that can accommodate up to 7 ounces or 4 ounces of yarn with ease.

Make sure that the winder design you select can comfortably keep the weight of yarn that you want for your project. Otherwise, you will need to cut the skein into half.

Price

Yarn winders come in different sizes and shapes that would be suitable for heavy-duty and basic yarns. Meaning, the cost will differ among the designs and sizes.

Always pick a yarn winder within your budget. In my opinion, hand-operated yarn winders make a better option than electric yarn winders. I own a manual yarn winder.

Also, electric winders cost more than manual ones. If you’re a beginner, opt for a manual yarn winder. If you’re an expert, electric winders will suit your needs better.

Type

As I already mentioned, you can select from electric and manual yarn winders. Electric models may cost more but they save time by winding your skeins faster into cakes or balls.

They’re also less effort-intensive and spare the wrists and hands from the fatigue. Manual yarn winders, on the other hand, provide greater control and let you pick the number of balls.

They also provide better control over your tension. Electric models make a better choice for people with arthritis or dexterity. Manual yarn winders make a better pick for beginners.

Construction

A high-quality yarn winder is the one that lasts for years. It’s not something that will let you down at the first obstacle. Plastic yarn winders, for instance, aren’t long-lasting and durable.

They’re prone to cracking and breaking. However, some models made of hard plastics provide durability. Pay close attention to the material. Opt for yarn winders with sturdy construction.

Gears

It’s also important to check the protection of gears as the yarn thread usually slips under the gears. This results in damage to your thread. Opt for a yarn winder with protected gears.

Clamps

Clamps matter because they keep yarn winders stable. They keep your yarn winder from moving when it’s winding. Make sure that the yarn winder you pick has high-quality clamps.

Well-built clamps also improve the grip on the countertop or table. Your yarn winder shouldn’t leave any stains or damage on the surface of your office desk. Otherwise, it’s not worth it.

Crank

If you’re a serious knitter, you need to buy a yarn winder that can withstand serious cranking. The cranks need to be smooth and even to maintain the tension. Also, it should feel durable and sturdy. However, it shouldn’t grab too hard on your yarn so that you ruin the tension.

Assembly

Some yarn winders arrive pre-assembled while others may need some assembly. If you buy a model that requires assembly, then make sure it’s not something too hard.

Also, make sure that your purchase includes all the necessary instructions on how to assemble your yarn winder properly. Opt for products that require basic assembly.

Space

The space you have available in your working room to accommodate your new accessory will determine the size of the yarn winder you pick. Not everyone has a large workspace.

If you don’t have much space at your disposal, buy something smaller. Keep in mind that enough room is necessary for the safe storage of your new yarn winder when not in use.

Material

The material utilized to make the yarn winder is also important. It determines the durability of the yarn winder. However, it also affects the overall weight of the yarn winder.

Wooden yarn winders last longer and provide greater durability but most importantly, they don’t weigh much. Plastic models cost less. They’re also portable. However, they may cause your yarn to get caught up in the loops.

Also, they’re prone to breaking or cracking.

What Are The Best Yarn Winders?

Having a yarn winder in your working room is always welcome when you’re working with a large amount of yarn. Or when you’re in the middle of a complex knitting project.

The best yarn winder can make your knitting and life, in general, much easier. It turns knitting into a fast and less complicated process. All you have to do is find the one that works for you.

I have researched available options on the market and made some suggestions. Every knitter needs one of these tools. Here’s a list of yarn winders worth your time and money.

• Best Overall: Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder
  “Holds up to 3.5 ounces of yarn, ideal for bulky, fingering and lace weights, removable spindle, compact.”
• Best Budget: Windaze Hand-Operated Wool Winder Holder
  “Quiet and smooth, the perfect inbuilt clamp, sturdy, excellent price, perfect for medium-sized projects.”
• Best for Beginners: Stanwood Needlecraft YBW-B Hand-Operated Yarn Ball Winder
  “Durable construction, can wind up to 4 ounces, produces center-pull yarn balls, manual, user-friendly.”
• Best for Arthritic Hands: U-nitt Hand-Operated Metal Ball Winder
  “Made of cast iron, fits on thicker tables, holds up to 10 ounces of yarn, easy to use, prevents hand pain.”
• Best for Large Skeins: Stanwood Needlecraft Large Ball Winder
  “Center-pull yarn winder, made for heavy-duty use, fits on thicker tables, holds up to 10 ounces of yarn.”
• Best for Small Skeins: Housweety Hand-Operated Ball Winder
  “Winds up to 250 grams of yarn, sturdy construction, affordable, perfect for smaller projects, durable.”
• Best for Small Workstations: Lacis MO77 Yarn Ball Winder
  “It has a yarn feeder that prevents tangling, beginner-friendly, winds up to 5 ounces of yarn, compact.”
• Best Yarn Winder and Swift: Yarn Ball Winder and Umbrella Swift
  “New design, easy to assemble and disassemble, collapsible, holds up to 4 ounces of yarn, portable. “
• Best Electric: Simplicity Boye Electric Yarn Ball Winder
  “No assembly required, it doesn’t run on batteries, winds yarns within seconds, ideal for serious users.”
• Best Manual: Nancy’s Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Ball Winder
  “Made of maple wood, winds up a pound at a time, budget-friendly, user-friendly, sturdy construction.”

Best Yarn Winder Comparison Chart 2021

Winding yarn by hand isn’t only annoying but also time-consuming. This is where the best yarn winders enter the conversation. If you’re a serious knitter, you need a handy tool like this!

It’s a must-have for passionate knitters. It saves time and makes your work easier. But choosing the right model can be hard. This is where my comparison chart and unbiased product reviews kick in.

Let’s compare some of the best yarn knitters available out there. Pay special attention to the type. Also, throw a glance at the detailed review of each product before you make a choice.

Top 15 Best Yarn Winder Reviews 2021

A yarn winder will make everything so much easier and faster for passionate knitters. It also boosts the whole experience. It comes in handy when you want to wind skeins into balls.

Or cakes as many like to call them. However, given a large number of models available out there, picking the best yarn winder isn’t a walk in the park. In this buying guide, you will find the best models out there to enhance your knitting experience. Choose the model that meets your needs.

Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder

(Best Overall)

Knit Picks is one of the most popular brands on the market. They always make the best products and this yarn winder isn’t an exception. It’s one of the best-selling models for a reason.

It’s great for lightweight yarns and can turn yarn hanks and skeins into well-organized and compact balls. Thanks to the pivoting winder, it’s also comfortable and prevents fatigue and pain.

Additionally, you won’t experience issues securing your new toy to all your table edges or work desks. It requires simple assembly. If you’re a beginner, you will adore this yarn winder.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Folding yarn guide
• Winds up to 100 grams of yarn (3.5 ounces)
• Perfect for bulky, fingering and lace weights
• Removable spindle

Yarn Valet Green & White Yarn Ball Winder

If you’re looking for a compact and comfortable yarn winder, look no further than Yarn Valet. It’s one of the best yarn winders I have ever had. I especially love the ergonomic grip.

It allows users to keep the yarn winder with one hand. It’s also lightweight. Meaning, you can take your toy anywhere you go! It features a winding center wherein you can spin the yarn.

This helps you turn your yarn into the compact and tight ball that you can store or travel with. There’s a compartment where you can keep your accessories which is a big plus.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Made in the USA
• Won’t stretch or damage the yarn
• Storage compartment

Lacis MO77 Yarn Ball Winder

(Best for Small Workstations)

It’s easy to fall in love with Lacis yarn ball winder. It’s easy to set up and use.

If you’re a beginner, you will love this tool. A fast peek at the instructions and you will become an expert in winding yarn with this tool. It’s lightweight and portable so it’s travel-friendly.

You can take your yarn winder wherever you go! The best part? It doesn’t take much space. Therefore, it makes a good choice for users with smaller workstations. It’s perfect for storage.

If you’re looking for a user-friendly tool that holds up to 4 ounces, look no further than Lacis.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• It has a yarn feeder that prevents tangling
• It can handle up to 4 ounces without utilizing cones or tubes
• Lightweight, portable and beginner-friendly

Nancy’s Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Ball Winder

(Best Manual Yarn Ball Winder)

Nancy’s Knit Knacks Heavy Duty ball winder is one of my favorites on this list. I fell in love with this yarn winder at the first cake. It turns any yarn into a compact and nice ball.

Honestly, it’s a bit large for my liking but it’s still worth considering. If you’re looking for a top-notch tool that will level up your knitting game, look no further than Nancy’s Pick.

It’s travel friendly. And can wind up a pound of yarn. However, what I like most about this product is the sturdy construction. It’s made of maple hardwood utilizing Swiss gears.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Made in the USA
• Made of maple wood
• The handle spins which prevents injuries to forearm muscles and wrist
• Winds up a pound at a time
• Reasonably-priced

Stanwood Needlecraft YBW-B Hand-Operated Yarn Ball Winder

(Best for Beginners)

Stanwood is one of the most popular brands in the knitting and crocheting world. And this manual yarn winder is one of their best products. It’s a first-class, hand-operated tool.

However, it comes at a lower price than most yarn winders on the market but provides the same quality. It’s also lightweight and compact. It’s half the size of regular tools by Stanwood.

Overall, it can do wonders for your projects. If you’re looking for a smooth, quiet, and affordable winder, look no further than Stanwood Needlecraft’s hand-operated yarn ball winder.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Durable construction
• It can wind up to 4 ounces
• Smooth, quiet and budget-friendly
• Produces center-pull yarn balls
• Hand-operated yarn winder
• Perfect for beginners

Housweety Hand-Operated Ball Winder

(Best for Small Skeins)

You don’t have to be a magician, an expert, or have special tools to install this yarn winder. It’s easy to utilize and makes a perfect choice for experts and beginners alike.

If you’re looking for a great birthday gift for the crocheter or knitter in your life, look no further than this hand-operated yarn ball winder by Housweety. It’s also portable and lightweight.

Therefore, it’s travel-friendly. You can take this handy tool anywhere you go! Moreover, it’s super quiet. It barely produces any noise when it’s working. It can wind up to 200-250 grams.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• User-friendly
• Winds up to 250 grams of yarn
• Sturdy construction

Windaze Hand-Operated Wool Winder Holder

(Best Budget)

Searching for a cheap yarn winder? If so, you will adore Windaze. It’s a hand-operated wool winder that provides durability. It’s a great choice for knitters on a budget.

However, durability and affordability aside, this tool can make your knitting experience more enjoyable and easier. It can make compact and neat yarn balls and cakes in just seconds.

You don’t need any piece of innovative and heavy tools. Make large-sized balls of yarn and prevent yarn waste with this winder. It helps prevent snags, bunches, and tangles.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Quiet and smooth
• The ideal inbuilt clamp
• Convenient and lightweight
• Sturdy and long-lasting
• Excellent price

Simplicity Boye Electric Yarn Ball Winder

(Best Electric Yarn Winder)

I’m not a big fan of electric yarn winders. However, I made an exception for this one and decided to buy it. Honestly, it’s the best thing ever! It’s perfect for serious knitters like me!

If you’re a professional at this craft, I would warmly suggest that you invest in a modern yarn ball winder like Simplicity Boye. It does all the winding by itself. You don’t need to lift a finger.

Are you often tired and lazy? If so, you need this yarn winder in your life. It’s perfect for both lazy people and knitters who want to get things done quickly. The best part? It’s super easy to use.

All you need to do is read the manual once and watch your yarns turn into the most beautiful cakes that you have ever seen. It doesn’t need batteries. It works with 120 volt A/C power.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• No assembly required
• It doesn’t run on batteries
• Winds yarns within seconds
• Best electric yarn ball winder
• Perfect for serious knitters
• Great for new knitters

Nagina International Nostepinne Yarn Ball Winder

I accidentally stumbled upon this yarn winder as I was looking for wooden needles. Honestly, it piqued my interest so I decided to buy it. It’s affordable so I thought: “why not?”

And I don’t regret my purchase. This nostepinne is super beneficial for me. I fell in love with this versatile tool at first glance. It comes without instructions because it’s easy to use.

However, if you have never used a nostepinne before, you can search for online tutorials. You will come across a bunch of good ones! With this yarn winder, the winding is a breeze.

It has a smooth finish and makes a nice addition to my knitting arsenal. Unlike mechanical yarn winders, I can utilize this handy tool whenever I want. It fits right into my purse.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Lightweight and portable
• Polished and smooth finish
• Impressive warranty terms

Stanwood Needlecraft Large Ball Winder

(Best Yarn Winder for Large Skeins)

If you’re looking for a big yarn winder, you can’t go wrong with this model by Stanwood. It feels sturdy. When you first touch this yarn winder, you will know it’s made to last.

Although it’s budget-friendly, don’t let the low price fool you into thinking it’s a low-quality yarn winder. On the contrary, it’s durable, long-lasting, and perfect for heavy-duty use.

This can handle up to 10 ounces of yarn. It’s suitable for both beginners and experts alike. It’s made of rubber so it will protect the edge of your table from the metal frame.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Center-pull yarn winder
• Made for heavy-duty use
• It can handle up to 10 ounces of yarn
• Fits on thicker tables (2-1/8 inches)
• Durable and flexible gears
• Easy to set up and use

U-nitt Hand-Operated Metal Ball Winder

(Best for Arthritic Hands)

U-nitt is one of the best-looking ball winders on the market. It has a lot of positive reviews online. It’s a manual yarn winder that prevents hand pain and fatigue.

It’s easy and comfortable to use. I bought this ball winder last year and used it last week. I never had any issues with this tool. It’s made of metal which makes it sturdy.

The best part? It can hold up to 10 ounces of yarn. Regular yarn winders can only withstand 4 ounces of yarn. Meaning, this long-lasting workhorse can do double.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• It’s made of cast iron
• It can fit on thicker tables (2-1/8 inches)
• Holds up to 10 ounces of yarn
• Requires basic assembly
• Easy to install and use

Darice White Yarn Winder

Darice is one of my favorite yarn winders so far! It’s perfect for both beginners and professionals. I have this yarn winder and I’m 100% satisfied with my purchase.

It makes things easier and less frustrating. If you’re searching for a handy tool that will speed things up, then Darice is the ideal choice for you. It’s a manual yarn winder.

This baby includes a beautiful table clamp. Moreover, it’s easy to operate and usually utilized to provide center-pull yarn cakes. It’s compact, fully-assembled, and portable.

To utilize this yarn winder, all you need to do is fasten it to your preferred surface with its clamp. Darice can hold up to 4 ounces so it’s not suitable for larger skeins.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Winds up fast and easy
• Ideal for making center-pull yarn skeins
• Includes a removable clamp

Marrywindix Hand-Operated Yarn Winder

Marrywindix is a cheap but functional and durable yarn winder. If you’re on the lookout for a cheap and manual yarn winder that provides durability, look no further than this model.

It’s one of the best affordable yarn winders on the market. The best part? It requires basic assembly and doesn’t require much effort. Just attach it to any surface. It doesn’t leave scratches.

Or dents. It’s compact and lightweight. Meaning, it’s suitable for travel. I bought this product because of its price. However, I was impressed by the design, portability, and functionality.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Beautiful design
• Potent functionality
• Suitable for beginners
• Sturdy construction
• Budget-friendly

Beisaqi Hand-Operated Winder Holder

This tool works like a charm! I have done around 120 yarn skeins with Beisaqi and I can say that I’m very satisfied with its functionality. It’s effective and easy to utilize.

Although it’s not a popular brand, it’s still worth considering, especially for newbies and professionals on a budget. It’s one of the most underrated yarn winders on the market.

However, it deserves the same attention as the rest of the yarn winders I have reviewed so far! It’s easy to set up, portable, and lightweight. Meaning, it’s travel-friendly.

Moreover, it’s perfect for small amounts of yarn (can withstand up to 7 ounces of yarn). Let’s not forget that standard yarn winders have the capacity of only 4 ounces.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• Noise-free
• Long-lasting with proper care
• Easy to install on working desk or bench
• Appealing design
• User-friendly

Watch Video:

Yarn Ball Winder and Umbrella Swift

(Best Yarn Winder and Swift)

If you’re looking for a yarn ball winder and umbrella swift, look no further than this combo. It has a new and improved design. However, most importantly, it’s easy to set up.

It’s also easy to disassemble in less than 60 seconds. You can attach both to any surface or table edge up to 1 3/4 inches with ease. The winder turns skeins of yarn into nice cakes.

It can hold up to 4 ounces of yarn. The best part? Both tools can be easily stored. They’re collapsible to a compact size for simple storage. Meaning, they’re also travel-friendly.

Product Specifications:

Key features:

• New design
• Best yarn swift and ball winder
• Easy to assemble and disassemble
• Easy storage

Is a Yarn Winder Worth it?

There’s nothing more annoying than tangled chaos when you’re knitting straight from a skein or hank. The process is hard and will take longer than you thought.

This is where yarn winders kick in. They’re the perfect solution for this common issue. Yarn winders cost a little. However, they make your overall experience more enjoyable.

Skeins arrive in a loosely and long twisted shape that’s not suitable for knitting. It doesn’t matter if it’s a costly yarn. Most of the time, expensive yarns come in this shape.

A yarn winder helps to fasten the hanks and skeins by winding them into neat cakes. It’s a great solution for both passionate beginners and experienced knitters alike.

My Top Pick

A yarn winder can make your knitting a lot easier. The above yarn winders can provide you a good basis on choosing the best yarn winder that suits your needs and works best for you.

Whichever product you prefer, make sure it’s made of long-lasting material and produces little close to no noise. Also, make sure it can handle the amount of yarn you want for your projects.

Also, pay attention to the assembly. Some models come fully-assembled while others require assembly. If your preferred model requires assembly, then ensure it includes clear instructions.

Knit Picks Yarn Ball Winder is my top choice because it’s perfect for bulky, fingering and lace weights. It winds up to 3.5 ounces of yarn. It also has a removable spindle. However, if you’re on a budget, Windaze Hand-Operated Wool Winder Holder makes a great choice. It’s quiet and smooth.