Lazy Kate

In spinning, a lazy kate is a device used to hold one or more spools or bobbins in place while the yarn on them is manipulated. Typically, a lazy kate consists of multiple rods and come with bobbins that fit onto them. Tensioned lazy kates have a band that loops over the bobbins to prevent the spools from spinning freely. Lazy kates are used to ply yarn. Also, some spinning wheels have built-in lazy kates.

While a wooden lazy kate such as the one pictured is much sturdier, the same effect can be achieved with a cardboard box and some sort of dowels.