WINDING AND SPINNING
 
The String - Each top is different and requires a certain length of string to spin correctly. We suggest that you begin with a string that is about shoulder to floor length. The string should be knotted at each end. Each of our top strings come with a wooden button between the knots. The button has a flat and a curved side and can be moved to either end of the string depending upon which surface the thrower prefers. The string can be waxed by pulling it across a candle or paraffin prior to use. This gives the string a better grip of the top and lessens the chance of accidental knotting on the throw. If the thrower has trouble holding on to the string during release, wrap the string around the middle finger. This will prevent the string from being thrown with the top.
Winding the Top
-- Right Handed Throwers: Hold the top in your left hand with the tip down. Place the knotted end of the string under your left thumb with about 3/4 inch of string protruding past the crown. Wind a single loop of string around the top's crown and over the knot. Pull the string firmly over the knot, catching it and forming a "V". Keeping the string tight, turn the tip of the top to the right, pull the string down to the tip, and wind away from you. Keep a steady tension on the string as you wind and layer the string smoothly toward the crown.
-- Left Handed Throwers: Hold the top in your right hand with the tip down. Place the knotted end of the string under your right thumb with about 3/4 inch of string protruding past the crown. Wind a single loop of string around the top's crown and over the knot, catching it and forming a "V". Keeping the string tight, turn the tip of the top to the left, pull the string down to the tip, and warp away from you. Keep a stead tension on the string as you wind and layer the string smoothly toward the crown.
Spinning the Top
--Hold the top in the palm of your throwing hand with the button behind and between your middle fingers. Keep the point of the top aimed up at all times.
--Throw the top with a smooth side-arm motion at a spot 3 or 4 feet away. Do not pull back on the string. The top will unwind and turn over as it travels down the string and land spinning.
--If the top does not spin straight the first time, do not get discouraged. Try various lengths of the string and move the throw point in or out to fine tune. Each top is different and may take several adjustments to spin true. Good top spinning takes practice and consistency of throw.
Caution - Your spinning top has a small, sharp, and removable tip and is not recommended for children under 5 years of age. NEVER THROW YOUR TOP AT ANOTHER PERSON.