To pull and slightly thin out a length of roving, sliver, or top before feeding it into the spinning wheel or machine. This gentle elongation aligns the fibers and reduces the mass to a manageable thickness, ensuring a smoother and more consistent final yarn when the actual drafting occurs.
Heard on the job
You'll want to predraft that merino top a bit so it doesn't jam the orifice.
Insider tip
Handspinners often predraft slippery or compacted fibers to maintain better control over the twist rate.