John Vandenbulcke on the Art of Spinning

John Vandenbulcke on the Art of Spinning

Over twenty years of craftsmanship and technical passion at ESG

For more than twenty years, John Vandenbulcke has been a cornerstone of ESG's spinning mill. He knows every machine inside and out, keeps up with each new technical evolution, and still carries the same passion for textiles as on his very first day. What started as a chance opportunity turned into a lifelong love for technology and precision work.

From coincidence to passion for spinning

John found his way back into the textile world almost by accident. But one tour of the cotton spinning mill, with its impressive open-end machines was enough to spark his fascination.

"After that visit, I knew this was what I wanted to do. The mix of technology, precision, and movement just fit me perfectly."

Since then, he has become an indispensable part of the spinning department.

Every day is different, but always precision work

No two days are the same for John, and that's exactly what keeps his job interesting.
His mornings start with a quick check of the machines, followed by setting priorities: a robot that needs maintenance, a new yarn quality to start up, or a small repair in between.

"You have to be able to switch gears, think ahead, and keep an eye for detail," he says. "Of course, efficiency matters but consistent quality always comes first."

For John, it's all about balance: speed and precision going hand in hand. He finds real satisfaction in the moment when everything comes together, when the machines run smoothly and the yarn winds perfectly onto the spindles.

"When everything runs as it should, that's pure satisfaction."

Quality in every detail

According to John, true quality doesn't start with the machine, but with preparation. A good sliver is the foundation of a perfect yarn. That's why every batch is tested in the lab for thickness, tensile strength, and uniformity.

"The biggest challenge isn't the spinning itself, but the preparation," he explains. "A small difference in raw material or settings can have a big impact on the result. You need knowledge, and a good feel for it."

Even with modern technology, spinning remains an art of craftsmanship. It takes logical thinking, focus, and above all, a solution-oriented mindset.

Technology that enhances the craft

Anyone who thinks spinning is the same as twenty years ago is mistaken. The machines in ESG's spinning mill are now smarter, safer, and more reliable than ever. Where entire installations once had to be stopped for a single repair, today one spindle can simply pause while the others keep running.

"That means less downtime, greater efficiency, and more control," John says. "The production process itself has also become more refined. Modern systems can now run multiple yarn types simultaneously in different sections. Yet the essence of spinning hasn't changed: opening up fibers, twisting them, and winding them into a flawless yarn."

"Technology evolves, but craftsmanship remains."

Sustainable spinning with recycled materials

Alongside the evolution of machinery, the rise of recycled materials is one of the biggest changes John has witnessed. The machines require different settings, and production runs a bit slower, but the results are impressive.

"With experience, I know exactly how to adjust the parameters," he explains. "Recycled fibers require more finesse, but they produce amazing yarns."

That drive to improve aligns perfectly with ESG's sustainable vision; producing more efficiently, reducing waste, and increasing reuse throughout the process.

Satisfaction and a vision for the future

After more than two decades, John is still as passionate as ever. What drives him is the pursuit of perfection and the pride in creating something tangible.

"The best moment? When everything falls into place. When the spinner only has to place the pots and the machines do exactly what they should. That's true satisfaction."

He's optimistic about the future, too. New materials, smarter technology, and a growing focus on sustainability keep his work exciting.

"The industry is changing fast, but that keeps us sharp. Spinning is a craft, and it always will be."