A swingle is a specialized, sword-like wooden tool used in the traditional processing of flax and hemp. After the stalks are broken, the worker strikes them repeatedly with the swingle over an upright board. This beating action, called scutching, scrapes and knocks away the brittle, woody outer shives, leaving only the long, flexible fibers ready for hackling and spinning.
Heard on the job
You have to strike down hard with the swingle to clear the shive, but not so hard you snap the good flax fibers.
Insider tip
Swingling is a dusty, physically demanding process; a well-balanced swingle made of hardwood reduces fatigue.
Also heard as
- scutcher
- swingling knife