Abstract: A clamp is connected to a base for retaining a reel in a predetermined position relative to the base. A pair of winding heads are mounted to the base so that the winding heads face each other with the reel retained between the winding heads. Each winding head includes a corresponding fiber supply spool. A coil of optical fiber is formed on the reel by alternately winding predetermined lengths of the fiber from each fiber supply spool onto the reel. The coil is formed by rotating the first winding head in a first direction relative to the reel to wind fiber from the first supply spool onto the reel while holding the second winding head stationary relative to the reel to prevent fiber from the second supply spool from being wound onto the reel while fiber from the first supply spool is being wound on the reel. The winding heads are moved in translational motion relative to the reel while the winding heads are rotated to wind the fiber in even layers on the reel.