Buying an older spinning wheel can be an exciting experience. Nevertheless, spinners, and soon-to-be spinners, are often faced with tons of unanswered questions before making the official leap. Is this wheel the right price? Are all of the parts present? Is this wheel fully functional or merely decoration? The bottom line is that before making such a purchase, potential buyers want reassurance that the wheel meets their needs.
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So how does one develop an eye for spotting potential issues with older spinning wheels out in the wild? Here are some tips for becoming a spinning-wheel detective.
Become familiar with the parts of a spinning wheel and the different styles made over the years. Find diagrams of wheels using a quick Internet search or a handspinning reference book. With this information, you can spot elements that aren’t original and recognize when a wheel is missing components. Plus, you’ll have an occasional laugh at a poorly assembled wheel.
Thoroughly look over the wheel to check for functional parts and proper alignment of the drive wheel and whorls. Spinning wheels will have either a spindle or flyer and bobbin for spinning. When you inspect a flyer assembly, make sure both the bobbin and flyer move freely and independently from one another. They should not be fused together unless the wheel is used for decoration only.
ADVERTISEMENTSomething is much better than nothing. If the flyer assembly, or spindle, is completely missing on an older wheel, the wheel is not considered in working order. Fiber cannot be spun on the wheel. As a rule of thumb, it is better to have a broken flyer than no flyer at all. A broken flyer arm can be repaired by a specialist. A missing footman can be remade with leather cording or other materials.
A spinning wheel missing its flyer assembly.
Check the condition of the wood by searching for visible signs of woodworm infestations. A contaminated spinning wheel will have clusters of tiny holes where the beetles have gnawed through the wood from the inside out. Different types of beetles cause this type of damage to furniture, and spinning wheels are no exception.
Check for damage to the spinning wheel. Severe damage to the hub of the drive wheel can be a deal-breaker. Also, the tension screw, or knob, on a traditional-style spinning wheel is worth testing before purchasing. Take along spinning fiber, oil, and a spare drive band to test that the wheel works.
The flyers on vintage spinning wheels are not interchangeable. Make sure the wheel you are considering has the original parts.
If inspecting the wheel in person is not an option, be prepared to ask a lot of questions. Here are some additional tips to make the experience easier.
Not so fast . . . Before you get excited about that pretty wheel based on its description, be aware that spinning-wheel listings can contain inaccurate information. Some sellers are not familiar with spinning wheels. Some will often use phrases such as “working condition” or “spinning wheel in great condition” for wheels that are missing essential parts. A true “working wheel” is ready for use (and most likely has a fresh drive band).
Don’t be afraid to ask for additional photos: clear, closeup pictures of all of the moving parts and, especially, the flyer assembly or spindle.
Ask questions about the overall condition of the spinning wheel and whether the seller has any background information.
Check for wear on the flyer in the photo. Handspun yarn on the flyer is an indication that the wheel was used in the past to spin yarn, not just as a decorative spinning wheel–shaped object.
I hope these tips help you with your next spinning wheel hunt.
For more information on sleuthing vintage spinning wheels, check out Heavenly Bresser’s article, “A Spinner’s Path: Maker’s Marks and Antique Accelerator Wheels,” in the Summer issue of Spin Off.
Heavenly Bresser is the owner of Heavenly Knitchet. She is an award-winning handspinner and teacher at major fiber events all over the United States. Aside from spinning and teaching, she can be found dyeing fibers and making jewelry. Her goal is to inspire, encourage, and uplift other fiber artists. Visit her online at www.heavenlyknitchet.com.
Originally published May 11, ; updated April 8, .
Choosing a spinning wheel is a significant step forward for anyone interested in fibre arts. With so many options available, it might be difficult to choose whether you're new to spinning or a seasoned veteran wishing to upgrade. We'll walk you through the important aspects when selecting a spinning wheel in this detailed guide, ensuring that you make an informed decision that corresponds with your spinning aims and tastes.
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Spinning is the ancient art of transforming fibre into yarn, which is the foundation of many fibre arts. This process, utilizing a spinning wheel, allows skilled spinners to create unique and beautiful handspun yarns.
Historically, spinning was a crucial skill for housewives and artisans. Before the invention of spinning wheels, fibres were spun using a simple tool called a drop spindle. Spinning wheels revolutionized the craft, providing a more efficient way to add twist to fibres.
The spinning wheel's mechanism involves a drive band, which connects the flyer to the wheel, causing it to spin. The wheel's speed and tension are adjusted using foot pedals or a treadle. The fibres are fed onto the bobbin through hooks or orifices as the spinner's hands draft the fibre apart, adding twist to create a continuous yarn.
Handspun yarns offer distinct advantages over commercially produced options. With an expansive range of fibres and colours available, spinners can create custom yarns that suit their projects. Handspun yarns bring a sense of connection to the creative process and yield one-of-a-kind results.
Choosing the right spinning wheel is essential for an enjoyable spinning journey. Spinning wheels come in a variety of types, such as single-drive, double-drive, or double-treadle wheels. Factors like the type of fibre, desired yarn weight, and personal preference for treadling style can guide the choice.
When choosing a spinning wheel, start by thinking about what you want to achieve with your spinning wheel:
Having clear answers to these questions will guide you toward the best wheel for you.
When choosing a spinning wheel, the initial and exciting decision to make is selecting the perfect spinning wheel. You'll discover various types of spinning wheels, each offering its own set of distinct features and advantages to enhance your journey.
A castle-style spinning wheel's components are placed vertically, with the flyer above the wheel. Because the flyer is positioned above the wheel, these spinning wheels take up less floor area than other types of wheels. They feature three or four legs and are slightly smaller than other types of wheels. The Ashford Traveller spinning wheel falls under this category.
Saxony spinning wheels are those that we associate with fairytales, a traditional design that has been favoured by spinners for many years. They can handle a wide range of fibres, from the finest of wool to coarser materials like flax and cotton. This type of spinning wheel often features three legs, a flyer on one end, and a wheel on the other. Two examples that fall under this category are the Ashford Elizabeth and Traditional spinning wheels.
Modern and hybrid spinning wheels use a combination of traditional and modern technology to improve performance and increase output. These wheels often come with modern ball bearings that result in light treadling and little noise. Additionally, with accessories such as the Woolee Winder some modern spinning wheels have the ability to alter the location of the thread on the bobbin automatically, which is very convenient. Some modern spinning wheels also fold for storage and transport making them excellent additions for spinners who like to attend spinning guilds or simply like to spin on their travel journeys. The Ashford Joy spinning wheel and Louet spinning wheels are examples that fall under this category.
An electric spinning wheel or e-spinner does not have treadles instead it is operated by an on/off switch or, for some models, an optional foot controller. An e-Spinner does not have a wheel or whorls to determine ratios or speed. The flyers speed is simply determined by the speed you select on the dial. One thing to keep in mind is that this type of spinning wheel is not completely automatic. To fill the bobbin evenly on most models of e-Spinners just as on treadle wheels, you would still need to draft fibre, determine the yarn size and stop the flyer every now and then to change hooks. The Ashford e-Spinner, a highly adaptable and portable electric spinner, is an example of an electric wheel.
Learn more about electric spinning wheels in our previous blog post titled "E-Spinners: What Are They and When Would I Use Them?"
By understanding the different types of spinning wheels available and their unique attributes, you can select the one that best aligns with your spinning style and needs. Whether you choose a castle spinning wheel, a Saxony spinning wheel, a modern spinning wheel, or an electric spinning wheel, investing in the right spinning wheel will enhance your fibre arts journey and help you create beautiful yarns.
Before you buy a spinning wheel for making your own yarn, it's important to think through some key questions. Let us help you figure out what you need to consider before making your purchase, so you can start spinning yarn with confidence.
Consider your available space and portability needs. Some spinning wheels are designed for easy storage and transport, making them ideal for those with limited space or for travelling spinners. Castle wheels, e spinners and compact folding wheels are great options if you need a portable wheel.
The size and weight of your spinning wheel might have an impact on your spinning experience and overall comfort during the spinning process. Larger, heavier wheels provide more stability and momentum for lengthy, continuous spinning sessions. However, if you require a wheel that is easy to move around, a smaller and more portable wheel might be a better choice.
Spinning wheels come in both single and double-treadle designs. Double treadle wheels offer better balance and ergonomic support, as they allow you to use both feet for control. This feature can reduce strain during long spinning sessions and is especially beneficial for beginners. Meanwhile, single-treadle wheels have only a one-foot pedal, which may initially seem less balanced. However, they have their own benefits that make them a popular choice among spinners.
Consider your spinning style and the types of yarn you want to create. If you prefer to spin bulky or art yarns, a wheel with a larger or bulky flyer may be beneficial. For those who enjoy spinning lace weight or thinner yarns, a wheel with a higher range of ratios may be preferable.
Spinning wheels come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end, artisanal models. While it's important to stay within your budget, keep in mind that a quality spinning wheel is a long-term investment. Look for a wheel that offers good value for the features and craftsmanship it provides.
Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial for any aspiring spinner. Let's discuss what sets them apart and how they affect your spinning experience.
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