Spinning Out of Control

Everyone has probably heard of a spinning wheel but I bet few have used one and even fewer have made one. April asked me if I thought we could build this version of a spinning wheel. As usual without hesitation I agreed we could. I mean, why not? It's just wood, right? Right from the start I thought the biggest challenge would be this wheel but this proved to be one of the easier parts to this extremely advanced project. Don't get me wrong, I have really enjoyed this journey and have great appreciation to those that built these generations ago.

 Wheel assembled and cut out ready to be turned by my good friend Barry Werner(professional turner) who did a fantastic job. My lathe was too small and Barry is a perfectionist.

 Here is the grooves that Barry turned, sweet......

 I have to jump ahead because I did not take many pictures. April did an awesome job on the spindle turnings. There were lots of metal fabrication that we did. Nothing pre-fab here. Everything was made from scratch.This project has taught me a lot and I hope to make one for myself someday. I live next door to an alpaca farm so I could make my own socks.

 April seemed very happy with the results.Tonight  Ziggy and April have moved on to start their new life in Berea, Ky. I enjoyed having them in the shop again and look forward to seeing the finished spinning wheel on my next visit to Berea. Best of luck you two!