You can substitute "spindle" for any craft accessory, too! I find that if you are making something with your hands, any form of craft, strangers and onlookers don't hesitate to talk to you at all about what you are doing. Which, actually, kind of unnerves me, because usually if I am crafting in public it's because I'm in a hurry to finish what I am working on or else I'm using it as an exercise in zen, and in either case do not want to be interrupted. Not your point, though, I know. :P
PS: I MADE [FRESH] STRAWBERRY MUFFINS LAST NIGHT.