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10 Best Yarn Winders 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yarn Winder, Wool Winder for Crocheting, Simple Installation Yarn Ball Winder, The Helper for Wool Collection Lovers,Needlecraft Yarn Ball Winder Hand Operated

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,107
Capacity
Material
Portability
Capacity
Holds typical yarn skeins up to 100 grams without snagging or tangling, ensuring consistent, reliable winding every time.
Material
Sturdy yet lightweight construction combines plastic and metal, delivering durability with easy portability.
Portability
Sturdy yet lightweight construction combines plastic and metal, delivering durability with easy portability.
Ease of Use
Transforms loose yarn into neat, tangle-free cakes effortlessly, making knitting and crocheting smoother.

This yarn winder is a practical tool for anyone who enjoys knitting or crocheting and wants to keep their yarn neat and tangle-free. It turns loose yarn into tidy balls that save space and make your knitting smoother. Made from a mix of plastic and metal, it feels sturdy yet lightweight, so you can easily carry it around if needed. The hand crank is metal, which adds durability, and the device includes a foldable support frame that helps save storage space when not in use.

It attaches to tables up to about 2 inches thick, which covers most desks and counters, making it easy to set up and use. You simply turn the crank by hand to wind your yarn, and the included instructions make it straightforward even for beginners. It works well with most types of yarn and is designed to be quiet during use, which is nice if you knit in shared spaces. The capacity is suitable for typical yarn skeins, though very large or specialty yarns might take longer to wind.

One small downside is that since it’s hand-operated, it might take some arm effort if you have a lot to wind, compared to electric models. Still, its simplicity, portability, and solid build make it a great companion for knitters or crocheters who want a reliable, no-fuss yarn winder. It's also a thoughtful gift for wool craft lovers.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,107
Capacity
Material
Portability
Capacity
Holds typical yarn skeins up to 100 grams without snagging or tangling, ensuring consistent, reliable winding every time.
Material
Sturdy yet lightweight construction combines plastic and metal, delivering durability with easy portability.
Portability
Sturdy yet lightweight construction combines plastic and metal, delivering durability with easy portability.
Ease of Use
Transforms loose yarn into neat, tangle-free cakes effortlessly, making knitting and crocheting smoother.
#2

INMAKER Yarn Winder, Pink Wool Winder for knitting Hand Operated, The Helper for Knitting Enthusiast

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Ease of Use
Capacity
While it might require occasional unwinding, it consistently delivers neat and tidy yarn cakes.
Ease of Use
This yarn winder effortlessly turns messy yarn into neat cakes, enhancing the knitting experience.

The INMAKER Yarn Winder stands out as a handy tool for knitting enthusiasts. One of its main strengths is the ease of use. It can be assembled in just four simple steps, making it accessible even for those new to yarn winding. The product is designed to handle yarn weighing less than 4 oz, which is sufficient for most small to medium-sized projects. However, for larger yarn tasks, it might not be the best fit. It also boasts a portable design, as it can be mounted on desks with a thickness under 2 inches, making it versatile for different home crafting spaces.

The material quality is a notable advantage, as it is made from durable ABS plastic, which is stronger and longer-lasting than the common PP plastic. This contributes to its quiet operation, which is a plus for those who don't want noise to interrupt their crafting sessions. The yarn winder's pink color and attractive packaging might appeal to users looking for visually pleasing tools.

Customer service promises quick response to any issues, which is reassuring. The user rating of 4.4 stars suggests satisfaction among users, though potential buyers should weigh the yarn capacity limitation against their needs.

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Ease of Use
Capacity
While it might require occasional unwinding, it consistently delivers neat and tidy yarn cakes.
Ease of Use
This yarn winder effortlessly turns messy yarn into neat cakes, enhancing the knitting experience.
#3

KnitPro KP35004 Winding & Dispensing Accessories Natural Swift, Wood, Multi-Colour, 48 x 142 x 71 x 4 cm

Rating
9.9
Portability
Ease of Use
Portability
The foldaway design is appreciated for its smooth and swift operation, eliminating the need for makeshift winding methods.
Ease of Use
Effortlessly transforms skeins into beautiful yarn cakes in minutes, making the winding process a breeze.

The KnitPro KP35004 yarn winder is an attractive choice for knitters and crocheters looking to wind yarn skeins efficiently. Made from a combination of laminated birch and natural birch wood, it offers a sturdy yet aesthetically pleasing design. One of its key strengths is its dual functionality, serving both as a swift and a skein winder, which can be a space-saving solution for those who need both tools. The super smooth finish and quick rotation make it easy to wind yarn without tangling or causing frustration.

In terms of capacity, it handles up to 1.17 kg of yarn, which is ample for most personal knitting projects. The anti-slip feet are a thoughtful feature, preventing the device from slipping or scratching surfaces, a common issue with many yarn winders. However, its size, with a length of 142 cm, might be a bit cumbersome for those with limited space or who prefer highly portable solutions.

Ease of use is another highlight, with many users praising its straightforward setup and operation. Nonetheless, its wooden build, while beautiful, does require hand washing, which might be a minor inconvenience for some. Weighing 1.09 kg, it is relatively lightweight, making it easier to move around as needed, although not the most compact option available. It's positioned as a mid-range option in terms of cost and is well-suited for hobbyists who appreciate a blend of form and function, though those seeking ultra-portability or a more modern material might look elsewhere. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing durability and aesthetic in their knitting tools.

Rating
9.9
Portability
Ease of Use
Portability
The foldaway design is appreciated for its smooth and swift operation, eliminating the need for makeshift winding methods.
Ease of Use
Effortlessly transforms skeins into beautiful yarn cakes in minutes, making the winding process a breeze.

Buying Guide for the Best Yarn Winders

Choosing the right yarn winder can make your knitting or crocheting experience much more enjoyable and efficient. A yarn winder helps you transform hanks or skeins of yarn into neat, easy-to-use balls. When selecting a yarn winder, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of yarn the winder can handle at one time. This is important because it determines how large a ball of yarn you can create without having to stop and start again. Yarn winders typically come in small, medium, and large capacities. Small capacity winders are suitable for lightweight yarns and smaller projects, medium capacity winders are versatile for most standard projects, and large capacity winders are ideal for bulky yarns and larger projects. Choose a capacity that matches the type and size of your typical projects.
TypeThere are two main types of yarn winders: manual and electric. Manual winders require you to turn a handle to wind the yarn, giving you control over the speed and tension. Electric winders automate the process, which can save time and effort, especially for larger quantities of yarn. If you prefer a hands-on approach and don't mind the extra effort, a manual winder might be best. If you want convenience and speed, an electric winder is the way to go.
MaterialYarn winders can be made from various materials, including plastic, wood, and metal. The material affects the durability and aesthetic of the winder. Plastic winders are lightweight and often more affordable, but they may not be as durable. Wooden winders are sturdy and have a classic look, but they can be heavier and more expensive. Metal winders are very durable and can handle heavy use, but they might be overkill for casual crafters. Consider how often you'll use the winder and your preference for durability and appearance when choosing the material.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to transport and store the yarn winder. This is important if you plan to take your winder to knitting groups, classes, or travel with it. Smaller, lightweight winders are more portable and easier to store, while larger, heavier winders might be more cumbersome. If you need a winder that you can easily move around, look for a compact and lightweight model. If you plan to keep it in one place, portability might be less of a concern.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses how simple the yarn winder is to set up and operate. This is important because a user-friendly winder can save you time and frustration. Look for winders with clear instructions, straightforward assembly, and smooth operation. Some winders come with additional features like adjustable tension or yarn guides that can make the winding process even easier. If you're new to using a yarn winder, prioritize models that are known for their ease of use.