We just moved my husband’s parents from FL to MD, and I had to disassemble the spinning wheel my FIL built in order to transport it safely. Unfortunately, I didn’t take a photo before I took it apart and I’m not positive I’ve reassembled it correctly. I searched images of spinning wheels, but none are exactly like his. The main thing I’m concerned about is the “cage” that holds the raw wool - not sure I put it in the correct orientation.
And before anyone asks, my MIL is nearly blind, so I don’t think she could tell me, and FIL has dementia, so he may not know either. I’d love to take it to them as it should be. Thanks.
It does work - they had a friend who spins put it thru its paces and she said it’s a really nice wheel. FIL built it just because he wanted to. One day, I’ll post a pic of the dulcimer and hammer dulcimer that he built, just because.
That is lovely. I’m not a spinning wheel expert, I think that would probably be @Broomstick but it looks like I am used to spinning wheels look. I can sure understand why you wanted to keep it.
I keep looking at the pictures and I think that maybe the “cage” thing is upside down. The long piece looks like a handle and you would probably want to keep the moving wool down low and close to the machine to avoid snags on other moving places.
Again, I have never once used one of those things but I do understand how making thread works.
I should have been clearer - it did work when it was just built. I do not know how to spin so I’m not certain I got all the parts where they need to be.
It looks very much like the one my grandmother had and treasured. Unfortunately, grandpa tore it apart after she died. But I never learned to use it myself so I can’t be absolutely positive.
I suggest contacting the Textile Center for help. It’s certainly worth saving or selling/donating.
Eureka!! Yes! That’s the one! Thank you so much! And it’s nice to know something about the wheel now. I’m pretty sure FIL chose this particular style because he liked the looks - that’s how he chose most of his projects.
Now, the question is do they want it in their very crowded apartment, or is it ours? And is it evil that I’m hoping they’ll leave it with us…
The “cage” is called a distaff and it is in the correct place and orientation. (Technically, this is considered a “flax wheel” but you can spin wool on it just fine). The “spinner” is called the flyer. Some spinning wheel terminology is charming - the two posts that support the flyer are called maidens, and they in turn are supported by the mother-of-all.
Very beautifully done. Looks prettier than mine (which is quite similar) but then mine is about 185, has been used most of those years as a spinning wheel, and bits and bobs have needed replacing over time. Most recently 3D printed new bobbins.
Do you think I can learn how to use it via YouTube videos or would I need personal instruction? I think I’d like to try once things settle down around here.
Go ahead and try it via YouTube. Start with wool, it’s easier than most other fibers and readily available. You want what is called a “roving”.
Many people find spinning very soothing. It’s the repetition and concentrating on a task. Others find it boring. YMMV.
Your first attempts at spinning will be… creative. Lumpy and inconsistent in nature. This is perfectly normal and will improve with practice (unless you like lumpy and inconsistent). Such attempts are typically turned into something like a scarf with the imperfections give the piece character.
You’ll want several bobbins, but you should be able to get those on-line easily these days. You’ll need to do some measure to get the correct size (my wheel, being very much handmade, as always required me to find someone to make them custom)
Start by trying with online instruction, but look for a local weaver organization too. They can help you get personal instructions should you want it. Plus, their knowledge can help you determine if it’s a skill you want to develop commercially.
Spinning is a hobby I have always wanted to explore but we have cats. It just doesn’t seem right to take up a hobby that will make us yell at our cats all the time. Just keeping GG away from my metallics is a chore. Your cats are older and don’t seem to be as likely to get involved, so I say go for it.
Just think about the memories your grandkids would have of watching you spin and then inheriting the beautiful wheel. If it is lucky, someday it will be owned like someone like @Broomstick who will use it and treasure every single use mark.
