|
 Defining
how you will use your Spinning Wheel is the key to a successful
choice. The three main pointers are discussed in general terms
below.
First, decide on how much travelling the spinning wheel
will do. Is it being carried around and taken by car and by
air? Consider also whether the wheel will be used for production
rate spinning and whether finer or heavier yarn is normally
spun, or across the full range of grists. Finally, think about
the importance of appearance. Is it very much a working wheel
or must it look 'right' in its normal setting?
The design of a spinning wheel is a compromise between the
size of the driving wheel and its position relative to the
flyer which creates the yarn. The inertia of a larger wheel
makes for easier spinning, but creates a heavier structure.
A smaller spinning wheel is more compact and portable but
requires greater effort to create a bobbin of good quality
yarn.
There are many wheels available which cover a wide range
of styles and prices. Most can meet the need of a beginner
spinner, and will continue to meet your needs as your skills
develop.
The spinning
wheels supplied by Fibrecrafts are selected from
the best worldwide, emphasising spinning performance, robustness
through the structural design and manufacturing quality, as
well as good appearance. We do not make wheels and we can
therefore give an unbiased view on their characteristics.
Always ask for advice on your choice as help is willingly
and freely given.
Single or Double Treadle?
A double treadle spinning wheel balances the strain on your
legs and lower back over long periods of spinning.
With smaller diameter spinning wheels, the lower momentum
makes it difficult to maintain consistent rotation at the
slow spinning speeds used for draughting some fibres. A double
treadle minimises this, particularly in the Ashford design
which has the crank offset by 10°, completely avoiding
the 'locked' position at top dead centre.
The disadvantage of the double treadle is that the spinner
sits 'square on' to the spinning wheel, and this position
can make a proper long draw more difficult since the yarn
is carried across the body.
Learn more
about types of spinning wheel
New or Second Hand?
Many spinning wheels are purchased second hand. This is
particularly true of the industrially made wheels available
since the 1960's. Modern hand made wheels and antique wheels
are more rarely available and both the quality and craftmanship
varies considerably. Since most wheels are made of wood, the
prior history and storage is important. There is a risk of
warping, cracking, shrinkage and worm damage leading to difficulties
in use. Vital parts may also be missing which are impossible
to replace without access to a skilled craftsman. A number
of 'decor' wheels were made by woodworkers with little knowledge
of a working spinning wheel, and they do not spin well. It
is vital to see and try a wheel before purchasing.
A good second hand spinning wheel, supplied with a good
range of accessories, the original assembly instructions,
and some fibre can be excellent value. With this package,
expect to pay around half of the current cost of the new wheel.
Selecting a new spinning wheel gives the spinner a choice
of the layout of wheel and flyer, and the correct range of
fitments to produce the intended yarn. It comes with all the
maker's guarantees and technical support of the retailer.
Buying a new wheel ensures that it is fit for the purpose.
 Most new spinning wheels come with the option of a Scotch
Tension or a Double Drive arrangement for the band linking
the wheel, flyer and bobbin. Each has its adherents, but it
is a help to be able to change between the two for spinning
some types of yarn. Some wheels also offer a wide range of
whorl ratios to allow the spinner to move easily from spinning
the longer wool fibres to the shorter cashmere and cotton
fibres.
There are many adaptations for wheels, some of which can
be added later, but some must be built into the wheel during
manufacture. Some modern wheels can have a double treadle
lay-out, and this can be fitted easily to some older Ashford
spinning wheels.
These skeins were spun by Coralie Miles on her Ashford
Joy spinning wheel. (from top) Shetland, Cashmere, black
Alpaca, Camel, Jacob, Mohair, Bluefaced Leicester, grey
Alpaca.
The Joy is undoubtably the ultimate portable wheel.
It can be folded in no time at all and is easily carried
by its built in handle. The Joy weighs just 4kg and
has an optional carry bag.
Learn more
about types of wheel or browse the Book Shop for Spinning
books
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