Long ago all occupations were governed by a long held tradition of guilds, Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master. Even being accepted into a guild as a lowly Apprentice could be a disappointing and complicated business. The Fishmonger guild, millwright guild, the weaver's guild, all kept closely guarded trade secrets and entrée was allowed only with the guilds permission. Often you needed a father, uncle or family member belonging to the guild to be considered for acceptance. For instance the dyers guild of Lincoln, England would guard with their lives the secrets of the lovely Lincoln green, a vivid, vibrant, bright green, not to be reproduced anywhere else in the world. Some men have lost their lives in trying to import sheep from other countries, such as the truly espionage driven plan to gain access to Spanish Merino sheep.

The wool comber's guild was much sought after and these men who combed wool for their living were much envied, as they were paid extremely well for the era. Stonemasonry, carpenters, road working all were ferociously proud of their occupations. Keeping in mind the lifelong history of our art of spinning, we realized the need for a spindle that was simple, durable and had a very easy spin. Thus was created the Apprentice. Made and priced for the spindle teachers hard at work teaching class, or for an intrepid new spindler. We hope that these spindles help pass on the great art of spinning. In cherry or Walnut.

*Click on the thumbnails for larger pictures.*