When weaving the 2 throws I was using my sewing machine bobbin winder to wind the bobbins for my shuttles. Needless to say, it was makeshift and I had to take care since the bobbin shaft on my machine is only 1" high and the bobbins for weaving are about 4" long. Wobbly going. But it worked and as far as I'm concerned that's what mattered!
I had been dreaming, though, about getting a bobbin winder. In the course of my dreams I made up my mind that I did not want a belt driven one (replacing worn belts-I don't want that) and I remember having seen pics of vintage or antique pirn winders that were direct drive. One came up for sale in Warped Weavers Marketplace on Ravelry and I'm now the very happy owner of this wonderful tool. Since it's a pirn winder I had to wind a few inches of masking tape over the shaft to accommodate my bobbins but it works like a charm. I love this thing:
That's some handspun merino I'm putting into the scarf. Here's a close up of the weaving. I'll be done by the weekend--doesn't it go fast once the loom is set up!? I'm so happy about weaving with my own yarn. I placed an order for more merino/silk top, 8 oz. of deep red and 8 oz. of golden yellow. Should look pretty classy together, no?
In the next day or so I should have delivery of a new spindle! Yes, I'm getting another one but not just any old one. The twirly-hoo I ordered is a kick-spindle. It sits in a cradle on the floor and has a kick wheel that you put in motion with your feet. Sounds aerobic to me! Maybe I will start getting exercise after all. Ha! I'm very curious about this intriguing spindle and can't wait to try it out. It's a Mother Marian. I'll post updates of my experiences.
Also arriving shortly is a bobbin lace starter kit which I found online for a very good price. I haven't mentioned it, but when I was a teenager I investigated bobbin lace making and wove a foot or two using clothes pins as bobbins. (In fact, my sister asked me about it a few years ago. Wondered if I still did it.) Can't remember what I used for a pillow! Anyway, nostalgia and renewed curiosity prompted me to go for it. Don't know when I'll try it, but it'll be ready when the time comes. This man's videos are fabulous. Love 'em:
Basic Bobbin Lace Stitches
I'm remembering how difficult it was to get information when I was growing up. Books, if you could find them. That was it, unless you were super lucky to know someone who knew how to do what you wanted to learn. Even then, obtaining lessons... In this age of Youtube and all the other online resources at our fingertips!! Golly, haven't things changed!
I was given this little frame loom the other day. Isn't it lovely. I'll be able to weave a tapestry diary, and maybe some prayer flags,etc.
I said it poured! :)
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