Lucky Day
Ok, not exactly lucky — I slept in this morning, after having dreamt that I was spinning. So what did I do? I drove over to Birkeland Bros first thing this morning and bought myself a drop spindle and a pound of Corriedale roving. What am I doing? I have no idea. I’m going to teach myself to spin.
The lovely Cara Birkeland also introduced me to some Ashford spinning wheels, for when I’m ready. Cara recommended the Ashford “Joy” because it’s complete, compact, ready to go and portable. I was looking at the “Elizabeth 2″ or the “Traditional” because they are, umm, better looking. Does anybody have any recommendations for a good spinning wheel that I’ll be able to use forever?
And finally, here’s a shot of the back of my Lucky cardi — I’m shaping the back raglan portion now…
I just got a Traditional for my first wheel. It’s good, basic and nice looking. But I think for a little bit more money there are much nicer wheels out there.
I have the Ashford Traditional, which I love. I’ve heard it’s a good wheel for a beginner. But if you have an opportunity, the best thing is to try different wheels and see with which one you feel most comfortable.
Love your finished baby gift set~ so adorable.
You are really trucking on Lucky–it looks fabulous! I haven’t started mine yet… maybe this weekend.
Take care!
Lucky looks beautiful!
I learned on a drop spindle, and then bought an Ashford Kiwi. It’s a double treadle design, and I absolutely love it. However, I’m going to be moving overseas in a few months, so if you’re interested, I’ll make you a fantastic offer. It is still unfinished, so you can paint/varnish/finish it however you prefer. Almost new condition.
wow, lucky looks great!
Watch out! Spinning is addictive. And once you get a spinning wheel your poor drop spindle will be neglected (along with your regular knitting). I cannot recommend a wheel, though. I’m teaching myself to spin with an ebay brandless model someone had been using as decoration.
You may want to consider the Lendrum Double Treadle. It folds down and fits into a carry bag that is very convenient, super easy to learn on and grows with you. Its got a fast flyer head should you start wanting to spin finer and finer yarns, and is a castle style which isnt quite as space restrictive as the Elizabeth.
Your lucky looks like the pieces of my “lacy ribbon-tie cardi” from knitting for two. Definitely needs blocking! I can’t wait to see the finished pieces!
lucky looks lovely!! can’t wait to see the finished product!!
Felicia, what I would recommend is that you get a cheap plane ticket from Sea-Tac to BWI for Maryland Sheep & Wool (about $270CAD). Check expedia.ca MS&W is May 7-8th, and you will be able to try out just about every wheel made there. Then choose. Or, for local, handmade and wonderful - Watson Wheels http://www.watsonwheels.com/
I have a Kromski Polonaise (beautiful) and love it, I’ve got a Babe wheel you could try out, but it is NOT attractive. I know that Ashfords are very popular, but I see lots of them coming up for sale used. Not so with some other wheels. Up to you really.
Yea Spinning!
I got an Ashford joy a few months ago, Man is that thing portable,and it spins so smooth- the only grip I have is that there is no jumbo flyer and bobbin conversion kit for it. It is small,and again, I can’t say enough good things about it’s portability.
I love the color you chose for ‘lucky’ vs. what is the book.
Happy spinning!
I purchased a Lendrum double treadle a few months ago and I love it! It’s my first wheel but I did try several before I made my decision.
Christiane-
(If you don’t allow replying to other comments, just delete this!)
I’m looking to buy a spinning wheel, I’ve been dropspindling and I want to move on to something a little more exciting. I don’t have enough money to get a really fancy wheel, despite what I’ve been saving. So if no one else has replied to your Ashford Kiwi offer, I’d love to hear more about it.
My email is: Wren_Song@hotmail.com
I have five wheels now…my newest is an Ashford Joy, and it is my FAVORITE. It is especially nice if you go to spin-ins or demonstrations, or if you have small children, because it is easily folded up and put away when you are done…and just as easily set up again. Good luck not getting addicted!
I’m interested in hearing more about the Watson Wheel, which one did you get?
Thanks