Is this an antique wool yarn winder or spinning tool?
Here’s an eBay photo of a wooden craft tool that resembles the one I purchased locally over the weekend: http://cgi.ebay.com/2-OLD-WOOD-Yarn-Winders-12-8_W0QQitemZ220544936081QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item335980a891
The person who sold it to me had no idea what it was used for. It’s identical to the longer of the two wooden tools in the photo. Mine has a wonderful patina on the ends of the wood. I’m longing to know what it was used for, its approximate age, and other interesting tidbits. Any ideas?
Thanks!
Yes, the eBay photo does mention it’s a yarn winder, but I’m seeking confirmation of this. Is “winder” the correct word for this tool? Would it have been mostly used for wool yarn? Any idea how old these tools might be? Mine looks more worn than the one in the photo. Thank you!
Think weaving loom spool.
And industrial at that. The metal ends are to prevent the friction from wearing out the spools too quickly as the high speeds at which industrial looms operate would cause much wear to unprotected wood. There may be a spindle shaft that would run through the centre of the spool, or it may have been trapped within the shuttle and simply spun in bushings or bearings and been held in by clips.
Doesn’t really matter what it was used for in the past, It’s what you repurpose it for in the present that dictates WHAT is is for now. Enjoy your new…. Whatever you wish it to be.
Cheers
Matt