How to Thread a Saxony Spinning Wheel

The steps for threading a spinning wheel vary little between wheel types.

A Saxony spinning wheel is a style of wheel in which the elements are arranged horizontally, with a large wheel opposite the flyer. Often called traditional wheels, Saxony wheels typically have three legs. They are oriented during use so that the wheel faces away from the spinner. Many Saxony spinning wheels can accommodate both single and double drive wheels. This means the ratio of the drive can be changed as needed.

Things You'll Need

• Threading hook
• Thread
• Scissors
• 3 or more bobbins
• Skeinwinder

Instructions

1. Cut a length of thread that is at least 2 feet long. This length is called a leader because it literally leads the rest of the fiber through the spinning wheel.

2. Tie the thread to the center of the bobbin.

3. Thread the remaining length of the leader through each of the hooks on one side of the flyer.

4. Stick the end of the leader through the orifice toward the wheel.

5. Tie a small loop at the far end of the leader. Place a small amount of your spinning fiber into the loop and tighten it.

6. Begin gently treadling the wheel to feed the leader through the loops and onto the bobbin, continuing to feed fiber as the leader is pulled away. Check for any snags or misalignment in the leader.

7. Adjust your leader and hooks, if necessary, to the desired bobbin settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a brightly-colored leader will help you check for any snags or misalignment.

References

• The Joy of Handspinning; Styles of Spinning Wheels; 1999-2011
• The Woolery; Selecting a Spinning Wheel, Buying a Spinning Wheel & Spinning Wheel Information; 1995
• The Joy of Handspinning; Preparing to Handspin Yarn on the Spinning Wheel; 1999-2011