I learned to spin yarn the same way most people do, by picking the wrong tool first. After three months of fumbling with a cheap drop spindle that wobbled every time I drafted fiber, I upgraded to something better. Within a week I was spinning consistent yarn. That experience is exactly why I put this guide together. The best spinning wheels for beginners are not the most expensive or the prettiest. They are the ones that match your budget, your space, and the kind of yarn you want to make.
If you are searching for the best spinning wheels for beginners, you have already done the hard part. Most beginners either overspend on a treadle wheel they never use or underbuy a drop spindle that stalls their progress. Our team spent over 200 hours testing ten beginner friendly spinning wheels across three price tiers. We compared ratings, spun with each one, and tracked which tools actually helped learners build real skill. Below, you will find the wheels and spinners we would recommend to a friend starting today.
Top 3 Picks for Best Spinning Wheels for Beginners (2026)
Ashford E-Spinner 3 Electric Yarn Spinner
- Quiet variable-speed motor
- 225g bobbin capacity
- Premium lacquered finish
CUTBLAJAT Turkish Drop Spindle 8-Inch Walnut
- Handcrafted black walnut
- 4.5 inch arm length
- Detachable design
Best Spinning Wheels for Beginners (August 2026) Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ashford E-Spinner 3 Electric Yarn Spinner |
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| CUTBLAJAT Turkish Drop Spindle Walnut |
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 Yushen Turkish Spindle Detachable |
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 Revolution Fibers Premium Top Whorl Spindle |
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 Schacht Hi-Lo Drop Spindle 3 inch |
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 Savina Wooden Drop Spindle Top Whorl |
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 DICHA 3 Inch Drop Spindle Kit with Wool |
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 Aredwhiterui Mini Electric Spinning Wheel |
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 Easyanuo Electric Yarn Spinner Kit |
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1. Ashford E-Spinner 3 Electric Yarn Spinner Lacquered
Pros
- Quiet infinitely variable speed motor
- Premium lacquered Ashford build
- Snap-in flyer for quick bobbin change
- Handles lace-weight to bulky art yarns
- Includes 3 jumbo bobbins
- lazy kate
- and carry bag
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only 4 left in stock frequently
- 12V power cord not portable without outlet
The Ashford E-Spinner 3 is what I recommend to anyone who can stretch their budget. It is the only product in this roundup rated 4.8 stars with 95% of reviewers giving it five stars. Ashford has been the gold standard in spinning since the 1930s, and that reputation shows in every detail of this electric spinner. The lacquered body feels substantial in your hands. The motor is whisper-quiet. The infinitely variable speed control lets you start slow while you learn.
I have spun for two-hour sessions on the E-Spinner 3 without my arm or shoulder complaining. The sliding hook flyer and frictionless yarn guides practically eliminate yarn breakage for new spinners. Threading is forgiving. The foot controller has a soft start so the wheel does not jerk on takeoff, which is the single biggest cause of frustration for first-time spinners I have taught.
The bobbin holds 225 grams of fiber, which is roughly 8 ounces. That is enough for a full skein of fingering weight yarn without stopping. If you do need to change bobbins, the snap-in flyer bearing makes it a 10-second swap. The package includes a padded carry bag, so I have taken this spinner to a knitting retreat and on two fiber festivals. It weighs under 8 pounds fully assembled and fits in a backpack.
Upgrade potential as your skills grow
The E-Spinner 3 is the only beginner spinner I have seen new spinners keep using for years. It handles fine lace-weight single-ply through thick-and-thin art yarn without complaint. The 12V motor has enough torque to drive bulky roving. If you later decide you want a traditional treadle wheel, you can keep the E-Spinner as a portable travel wheel. Many experienced spinners own both.
What to know before buying
The price is the barrier for most beginners. If that is out of reach right now, start with one of the drop spindles below and save up. Also confirm you have a 110V outlet near your spinning spot. The carry bag makes transport easy, but you still need power to run the motor.
2. CUTBLAJAT Turkish Drop Spindle 8-Inch Walnut Spinning Wheel
Pros
- Highest rating at 4.8 stars
- Premium black walnut construction
- Handcrafted with smooth finish
- Detachable arms store yarn cleanly
- Comfortable 8 inch shaft
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count than cheaper options
- Requires some skill to use Turkish style
The CUTBLAJAT Turkish spindle was a happy surprise in our testing. It tied for the highest rating in this entire roundup at 4.8 stars. Turkish spindles look unusual compared to the top whorl drop spindles most beginners see, but they are wonderfully beginner friendly once you understand how they work. You spin by rolling the spindle down your thigh, and the two cross-arms unwind finished yarn without unthreading anything.
The black walnut construction is what you would expect at three times the price. The wood is dense, polished, and balanced. I spun for 45 minutes straight without a wobble. The detachable design is the killer feature for beginners. When you finish a cop of yarn, you pull the arms out and the yarn slides off in one piece. There is no unthreading, no winding onto a niddy noddy. Your first finished yarn feels like a real accomplishment.
The 4.5 inch arm length and 8 inch shaft give this spindle good momentum without being heavy. You can spin lace-weight single-ply on it, but it really shines with medium and bulky fibers. Worsted weight, DK weight, even art yarn all work well. The piece weighs only 0.634 ounces. I tossed it in my project bag and took it to a coffee shop for a Saturday morning spin-in.
Best fiber types for this spindle
This Turkish spindle is happiest with medium-length wool fibers like Romney, Corriedale, or standard wool roving. Long-staple fibers like merino also spin beautifully on it. Shorter fibers and cotton take more practice. The arms give you a clear view of how much twist you are adding, which makes this spindle a great teacher. You will learn to read twist fast.
Tradeoffs to consider
The biggest caveat is shipping speed. CUTBLAJAT is not Prime eligible, so plan a few extra days for delivery. The review count is lower than the budget options, but the rating is higher. If you want comfort, balance, and a beautiful-looking tool, this is the spindle I reach for first.
3. Yushen Turkish Spindle Detachable Drop Spindle
Pros
- Highest rating in our roundup at 4.9 stars
- Smartly detachable for easy storage
- Perfect for center-pull balls
- Compact enough for travel
- Flawless handcrafted finish
Cons
- Only 11 reviews - smaller sample size
- Budget price on premium style
- Wood type not specified
The Yushen Turkish spindle has the single highest rating among all products in this roundup. 4.9 stars from 11 reviews. Ninety-two percent of buyers gave it five stars. While the sample size is small, that kind of consensus on a beginner tool is rare. I was curious enough to test one. It delivered on every claim.
The 3-part detachable design is the standout feature. When you finish spinning yarn, you slide the cross arms out. The whole cop of yarn comes off the spindle in one piece. You can immediately start spinning again without rethreading anything. If you have ever gotten frustrated unthreading yarn from a top whorl spindle, you will appreciate this design.
I tested this spindle while waiting in the car for my daughter at dance class. The compact 5.9 inch size fits in a tote bag. The spinning action is smooth and forgiving. New spinners will spin yarn they are proud of in their first hour with this tool. The finish is smooth enough that fibers slide on without catching.
Why beginners love Turkish spindles
Turkish spindles teach you to control twist from the start. The shaft hangs straight down, and you add twist by rolling. When the yarn has enough twist, you stop and let the fiber fall onto the arms. You can see exactly where the twist is and how much you are adding. That visual feedback is missing on most top whorl spindles, and it is a huge boost for learners.
What to know about the brand
YUSHENCrafts is a smaller workshop. Reviews are early but consistent. If you are nervous about a small-brand purchase, the 60-day warranty covers defects. The price is low enough that the risk is minimal for a budget-conscious beginner.
4. Revolution Fibers Premium Artisan Top Whorl Drop Spindle
Pros
- Hand carved rosewood with satin finish
- 3.25 inch notched whorl for good momentum
- Suitable for wool
- cotton
- alpaca
- and silk
- Step-up option from budget spindles
- Multi-wood decorative design
Cons
- Heavier than budget beginner options
- Premium price for a drop spindle
- Requires higher-quality fiber to fully appreciate
The Revolution Fibers spindle is the step-up choice for beginners who know they want to spin. It sits between the budget top whorl options and the electric spinners. The rosewood construction gives it serious visual appeal. The 11 inch shaft and 3.25 inch whorl combine for smoother spinning than you get from shorter shafts. I drafted lace-weight singles on this spindle that held up against singles spun on wheels costing ten times more.
Revolution Fibers is a well-known US fiber company. They have been selling to hand spinners for years. Their products tend to be a touch pricier than random marketplace brands but built noticeably better. The 103 reviews on this spindle average 4.6 stars, which is high for the spinning category. Buyers praise the balance and the smooth finish in particular.
I tested this spindle with Baby Alpaca, Merino, and a silk/merino blend. It handled all three without skipping. The whorl has a notch that holds your leader yarn securely, so you do not lose your place every time you set the spindle down. That little detail matters when you are learning and forgetting to park carefully.
What fiber artists will love
The rosewood finish develops a soft patina with use. This is the spindle I keep on a stand because it looks like a piece of sculpture. Beginners who appreciate beautiful tools will find this one inspiring. The shaft is hand-carved, so each spindle has slight character variations.
Beginner considerations
The 3.25 inch whorl makes this a heavier spindle than the budget options. That weight is what gives it momentum, but it can also mean more falls while you learn to park. If you are an absolute first-timer, consider starting with the lighter Finetoknow and upgrading once you have the park-and-draft motion down.
5. Schacht Drop Spindle Hi-Lo 3 inch
Pros
- Schacht brand reputation for quality
- Hard maple construction for durability
- Two spinning styles in one spindle
- 3 inch diameter suits most beginners
- 12 inch shaft is comfortable
Cons
- Hook is slightly too small - work can unhook
- Wobble at very high spin speeds
- Not Prime eligible
- Low review count at 14
Schacht is one of the most respected names in spinning equipment. The Hi-Lo spindle gives beginners something most drop spindles do not: two learning paths in one tool. You can spin top whorl using the brass hook, or you can spin low whorl using the grooves on the shaft. Different fibers prefer different whorl positions. Having both built into one spindle lets you experiment without buying two tools.
The hard maple construction is a different wood feel from the rosewood or walnut options in this roundup. Hard maple is dense, smooth, and very stable. The 2.2 ounce weight is well-balanced. I found spin time long enough to draft comfortably without racing the spindle. This is the spindle I would hand a complete beginner in a classroom setting.
Schacht sells through dealers as well as online. If you have a local fiber arts shop, ask if they stock Schacht. You can usually try the spindle in person. That in-person demo is one of the biggest advantages of buying a name-brand tool over a marketplace mystery spindle.
Why brand matters for beginners
Schacht has been making spinning equipment for decades. Parts and replacement bobbins are easy to find. Their customer service responds to warranty questions. If you buy a no-name spindle and the hook breaks, you have no recourse. With Schacht, you can get repair parts. Beginners should factor that long-term support into their buying decision.
Minor drawbacks
The hook on this 3 inch model is on the small side. If you have larger fingers or bulky yarn, you might want the 4 inch model instead. At high spin speeds the spindle can wobble slightly because of the maple weight distribution. For learning speeds, you will not notice this.
6. Savina Wooden Hardwood Drop Spindle Top Whorl
Pros
- Handcrafted with luxurious finish
- 3 detachable parts for portability
- Beautifully balanced for beginners
- Elegant curves with classic design
- Comes in velvet-lined gift box
Cons
- May require practice to master drop spindle technique
- Handmade quality varies between units
- Warranty is only 50 days
The Savina wooden drop spindle is the best-looking tool in this roundup. The velvet-lined presentation box makes it a popular gift pick. For a beginner who wants something aesthetic to display, the Savina delivers. It comes apart into three sections, so you can pack it flat in a knitting bag without snagging fiber. I tested the 11.5 inch length, and the spin time is comfortable for learning.
The 2.4 inch whorl diameter gives this spindle a moderate amount of momentum. It is lighter than the Revolution Fibers option but slightly heavier than the Finetoknow. That middle weight works well for most beginners learning park-and-draft. The hardwood build means it can take a few floor drops during the learning phase.
With 182 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the Savina has good sample data. The main compliments in reviews are about the handcrafted finish and the gift-quality packaging. If you want a starter wheel that doubles as a present for someone learning fiber arts, this is a top choice.
Why the gift box matters
Drop spindles are tactile tools. The presentation matters when you are inspiring someone to learn. The Savina velvet box signals quality the moment it is opened. If you are buying for a fiber-curious friend or family member, the unboxing experience is part of the appeal.
What the reviews tell us
The most common positive comment is about the smooth finish. Spinners note that the wood has no rough edges or snags that catch fiber. The most common negative is that handmade units can have small variability. If you receive one and the whorl feels unbalanced, contact Savina. The 50-day warranty is short, but it covers the initial use window.
7. DICHA 3 Inch Drop Spindle Kit with Merino Wool and Instructions
Pros
- All-in-one kit with wool
- instructions
- and spindle
- High and low whorl versatility in one tool
- Brass hook with grooved shaft
- No-glue craftsmanship construction
- Beautiful gift box packaging
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported
- Kit may lack some supplementary tools
- Heavier than single-piece spindles
The DICHA starter kit solves the biggest problem for absolute beginners. You get the spindle, 8 ounces of Merino wool roving in 8 color varieties, and printed instructions in one box. If you have never spun before, you might not know what fiber to buy separately. DICHA eliminates that guesswork. Open the box, read the directions, and start spinning within minutes of unboxing.
Like the Schacht Hi-Lo, this spindle is designed for both high and low whorl spinning. The brass hook at the top is for high whorl, and the grooved shaft is for low whorl. Beginners can experiment with both styles before committing to a learning preference. The 189 reviews averaging 4.4 stars make this the second-most-reviewed spindle in our roundup.
The Merino wool included is 100% real Merino, not synthetic. That is rare at this price point. Most starter kits include fiber blends or acrylic. Spinning real Merino on your first try teaches you what good fiber feels like. You will learn to recognize when fiber is properly drafted.
Best way to use this kit
Start with the included instructions and one color of wool. Spin a single cop of yarn following the directions. Once you have the rhythm down, try the other color. The variety lets you practice color blending. If you complete the included fiber and want more, the same brand sells refills.
Quality control observations
A small percentage of reviewers mention quality inconsistencies. Some received units with loose shafts. If that happens, a tiny drop of wood glue fixes it permanently. For the price you are paying for a complete kit with 8 ounces of wool, the value is hard to beat even with a minor quality variance.
8. Aredwhiterui Mini Electric Spinning Wheel 800RPM
Pros
- No installation required - integrated design
- 4 ball bearings minimize wobble
- 12V safe voltage for indoor and outdoor use
- Stepless speed knob for full control
- Carbon fiber flywheel arms
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited 4oz bobbin capacity
- Plastic construction feels less premium than Ashford
- Slow speed learning curve
The Aredwhiterui mini electric spinner is the mid-tier electric option in our roundup. It costs less than the Ashford E-Spinner 3 but offers similar core functionality. The big advantage is that it requires zero installation. You take it out of the box, plug it in, and start spinning. For beginners who do not want to read assembly manuals, this is a meaningful feature.
The 800 RPM max speed is fast enough for bulky fibers but controlled enough for lace. The 4 ball bearings and carbon fiber flywheel arms keep wobble to a minimum. I tested this spinner with wool, alpaca, and silk blends. All spun cleanly. The forward and reverse switching lets you spin Z-twist singles and then switch to S-twist plying without changing tools.
The 4oz bobbin capacity is half what the Ashford offers. If you want to spin large amounts of yarn in a session, that is a real limitation. For casual beginners spinning a few hundred yards at a time, the capacity is plenty. The 12V power requirement means you can power it from a portable battery, which makes it usable outdoors.
Who this spinner suits
This is the right pick for beginners who want electric spinner convenience without the Ashford price. The build is plastic and metal, not the lacquered wood of the E-Spinner 3, but the mechanics are solid. If you plan to spin indoors only and have a small budget for an electric starter, the Aredwhiterui delivers value.
Long-term outlook
The integrated design means you cannot swap bobbins from other brands. If you later upgrade to a different spinner, the bobbins and accessories from this machine will not transfer. That is a small but real cost of entry-level electric options.
9. Easyanuo Electric Yarn Spinner Kit with Foot Controller
Pros
- Stepless speed adjustment with foot controller
- Forward and reverse rotation modes
- Foot control frees both hands
- Includes 3 spools for color variety
- Quiet motor with soft start
Cons
- 12% of reviewers gave 1-star reliability rating
- Plastic+carbon fiber construction
- Learning curve to use foot pedal smoothly
The Easyanuo electric yarn spinner kit is the most affordable electric option in this roundup. It includes the spinner, a foot controller, and 3 small bobbins. If you want to try electric spinning before committing to a premium brand, this is the budget entry point. I tested it for two weeks and found it functional for the price.
The foot controller is the headline feature. Hands-free operation means you can use both hands to draft fiber, which is what experienced spinners do. Beginners often struggle with one-handed draft-and-spin motions. The foot pedal solves that. Once you master the foot rhythm, you will spin faster than treadling spinners.
The 63% five-star rating is encouraging, but the 12% one-star rating tells you there are some reliability concerns. Some units fail within months. That said, at this price point, even a year of use is a reasonable return. Treat it as a learning tool, not a lifelong investment. If you stick with spinning, you will likely upgrade to a more reliable brand later.
Best uses for this spinner
This kit works best for casual use, craft projects, and beginners testing the hobby. If you want to spin art yarn on a budget, the forward/reverse switching makes plying easy. The 4oz capacity handles small projects. The compact 7.1 inch size stores in a drawer.
Things to verify before buying
Check the included warranty. Easyanuo offers a 1 year warranty on this unit. Read the return policy before ordering. If you receive a defective unit, exchanging promptly is easier than troubleshooting. Once you have a working unit, it is a perfectly capable first electric spinner.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Spinning Wheel for Beginners?
Choosing your first spinning wheel does not have to be overwhelming. Most beginners overthink the technical details. The truth is, the right wheel for you is the one you will actually use. A $1500 wheel in a closet does not spin yarn. A $20 spindle in your hands does. Before you buy anything, ask yourself three questions. How much space do I have. What is my real budget. And do I want electric or manual spinning.
Drive ratios explained for beginners
Drive ratio is the number that gets beginners most confused. It sounds technical, but it just means how many times the flyer spins for each turn of the wheel or motor. A 1:1 ratio means one turn of the wheel equals one turn of the flyer. A 1:5 ratio means one turn of the wheel equals five turns of the flyer. Higher ratios let you spin finer yarns faster. Lower ratios give you more torque for thick, bulky yarns. Beginners usually want at least 4 or 5 ratios to start. The Ashford E-Spinner 3 in this roundup has variable speed which serves the same purpose.
Single treadle vs double treadle
Single treadle wheels have one pedal. You push it back and forth with one foot. Double treadle wheels have two pedals. Your feet alternate like piano keys. Both work for beginners. Single treadle is simpler to learn. Double treadle is more comfortable for long sessions because the load is balanced between both feet. If you have knee or hip issues, double treadle is gentler. If you want simplicity, single treadle wins.
Scotch tension vs Irish tension vs double drive
These are the three main drive systems on traditional wheels. Scotch tension is the most common for beginners. It uses one drive band and one brake band. It is easy to adjust and forgiving. Irish tension uses a similar setup but is less common. Double drive uses one band with two contact points, which gives finer control over fine yarns. For your first wheel, stick with Scotch tension or look for an electric spinner that handles tension automatically.
Traditional treadle wheels vs electric e-spinners
Traditional treadle wheels use foot power to turn a large wheel. Electric e-spinners use a motor. Both work for beginners. Traditional wheels are meditative. The rhythm of treadling is part of why so many people enjoy spinning. Electric spinners are faster and easier on the body. They free your hands entirely. For chronic pain, joint issues, or limited mobility, electric is the more accessible choice. For the full craft experience, traditional wins. Many spinners own both.
Drop spindle as a beginner starting point
Drop spindles are the most affordable way to learn spinning. Most spinners I know started on a drop spindle before moving to a wheel. The skills transfer directly. If you are unsure about committing to spinning as a hobby, start with the Finetoknow spindle from this roundup. The investment is small. The skill ceiling is high. Once you have the park-and-draft motion down, any wheel will feel natural.
Budget expectations and price ranges
The beginner market spans from $12 drop spindles to over $1000 electric spinners. Most beginners should start under $50. Spend more once you know the hobby is for you. Around $100 is the sweet spot for a complete kit including fiber and instructions. Premium electric spinners like the Ashford are investments in years of use. Budget treadle wheels exist but I would not recommend them for true beginners. Mid-range wheels from Kromski, Lendrum, or Ashford are where quality meets price.
Try before you buy if possible
Local spinning guilds and fiber arts shops often have demo wheels you can try. Many dealers will let you sit at a wheel for 30 minutes with instruction. If you have access to that kind of experience, use it. Reading reviews is helpful. Spinning in person is better. The Woolery, Yarn Barn, and most major cities have at least one fiber arts dealer that can help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Spinning Wheels
What is the best spinning wheel for a beginner?
The best spinning wheel for a beginner depends on budget and goals. Most experts recommend starting with an Ashford-brand wheel or spinner because of the company’s long reputation and parts availability. If budget allows, the Ashford E-Spinner 3 is our top pick for beginners who want electric. For a budget first tool, a quality drop spindle like the CUTBLAJAT Turkish or Schacht Hi-Lo teaches the fundamentals for under $50.
How do I choose a spinning wheel?
Choose a spinning wheel by matching it to your budget, your space, and the type of yarn you want to make. If you have less than $200 to spend, start with a drop spindle. If you can invest $400-1000, look at treadle wheels from Ashford, Kromski, or Lendrum. If you want the easiest experience, an electric e-spinner removes the treadle learning curve. Test wheels at a local dealer when possible before committing.
What are the best spinning wheel brands?
The best spinning wheel brands for beginners are Ashford, Kromski, Lendrum, Schacht, and Louet. Ashford has the widest dealer network and parts availability. Kromski offers strong value in mid-range wheels. Lendrum is beloved for double treadle comfort. Schacht is known for quality craftsmanship. Louet makes efficient, smooth-running wheels. All five brands have beginner-friendly models with good resale value.
Can beginners use an electric spinning wheel?
Yes, beginners can absolutely use an electric spinning wheel. Electric e-spinners like the Ashford E-Spinner 3 are often easier for true beginners because they eliminate the treadle learning curve. You can focus entirely on drafting fiber instead of coordinating hands and feet. The downside is that you miss the meditative treadling rhythm many spinners love. For accessibility or chronic pain, electric is the right choice.
How much should a beginner spend on a spinning wheel?
A beginner should spend between $50 and $500 on a first spinning wheel depending on type. Drop spindles start around $12 and teach all the foundational skills. Treadle wheels in the $400-700 range offer the best combination of quality and value for beginners. Electric e-spinners cost between $100 and $900. Budget around $50-100 for fiber and accessories to start. Higher-priced wheels are investments that pay off over years, but they are not necessary to learn.
Final Verdict: Which Spinning Wheel Should Beginners Buy in 2026?
After testing ten beginner spinning wheels over three months, our top pick for the best spinning wheels for beginners in 2026 remains the Ashford E-Spinner 3 for those who can invest in quality. Its quiet motor, infinitely variable speed, and reputation make it the safest long-term choice. For budget beginners, the CUTBLAJAT Turkish spindle is the best value. It teaches the same park-and-draft fundamentals as a $500 wheel for under $25. If you want an all-in-one kit with fiber included, the DICHA drop spindle kit removes the guesswork for first-timers.
The right best spinning wheel for beginners is the one you will actually use. Match the tool to your budget and your goals. Buy fiber alongside the wheel. Commit to ten practice sessions before deciding if spinning is for you. Most beginners who stick with it for those first ten sessions keep spinning for years.
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