the dropped spindle

ClaireUK · Joined: 18 Aug 2006 Posts: 94 Location: Coventry, UK

I've just been to my spinning guild meeting and finally decided I HAVE to have a wheel. They dont have one to borrow and arent going to get one so I have some big decisiont to make.

I am thinking of an Ashford Traveller, having read all the posts here and tried a fair few types out at the guild. One thing I forgot to aks was - if I get a 'standard' traveller, do I have to buy the lace flyer set too in order to make fine yarns? I never knit heavier yar than aran and I dont want to make cobweb, just sort of DK - 2 ply range.

Any advice welcome - its a big committment to make at the moment, but I dont want to miss this opportunity to learn from some of the lovely guild members.

Thanks, Claire UK

cledry yarner · Joined: 29 Jun 2006 Posts: 176

Someone with more experience of laceweight may have a different opinion but I have an ashford traditional and just keep the jumbo flyer on for whatever weight yarn I want to make. I remember someone else on another forum saying much the same thing.

ClaireUK · Joined: 18 Aug 2006 Posts: 94 Location: Coventry, UK

Thanks for that info. I have anothe question now:

Is scotch tension enough or do I need double drive?

Thanks, Claire UK

peneller · Joined: 07 Feb 2007 Posts: 5 Location: West Yorkshire

Claire, if you can find a supplier who has a number of different wheels, it is useful to try before you buy so that you can find one that suits you. If you go for the Ashford and want to use it for lace spinning, you will need to buy the lace flyer separately. Just be warned though that as the Ashford has only one treadle, it is very hard work keeping up with the rate you need for the lace flyer!! I have an Ashford Traditional which I converted from Scotch tension to double drive band. Both make very nice yarns, but if you want to spin very fine yarns, I think the double drive is better.
Last year I treated myself to a Lendrum wheel which I would recommend. It has a double treadle and it folds up for easy transportation. It comes with Scotch tension, but I haven't noticed any difference in yarn quality.
Hope you find what you're looking for.
Peneller

sally · Joined: 02 Jul 2006 Posts: 148

I have the traveller wheel, and its the bog standard set up. My spinning is by nature fairly fine, I never go heavier than DK, and it copes fine with my normal vaguely 4ply give or take a bit spinning. I would get the standard set up and try itbefore you buy extra bits, you may find you don't need it Very Happy