How to Repair Spinning Wheels

An older spinning wheel like this one eventually may need repair.

If you own a spinning wheel that gets lots of use, at some point it may require repairs. Perhaps you collect antique spinning wheels or are considering a collection. If so, you might wish to learn to repair spinning wheels--rather than paying hundreds of dollars for a professional repair job. For serious repairs of antique wheels that have value, it is advisable to consult a professional. Minor repairs, however, you can learn to do yourself by practicing and a few tips.

Things You'll Need

• Spinning wheel
• Sandpaper
• Wood finish
• Wax
• Wood glues
• Drive band cord
• Flyer hooks

Instructions

1. Repair damages to the finish of the wheel. Gently sand the damaged area with a fine-grade sandpaper. Apply a coat or two of wood finish to match the original color of the wheel. Allow the finish to dry, then coat it in wax using a cloth rag. The wax will preserve the wood and make the surface smooth for spinning.

2. Use joint-tightening glue for a loose leg joint or other joints. You may first have to remove the leg and sand off the excess dried glue used to tighten the joint. Then, apply a thin layer of new glue. If the joint has become loose because the leg is too small to fit in the hole, fill it in with some form of packing material. To do this, wrap string around the leg joint to increase its size or wedge a wooden toothpick into the joint hole next to the leg. Secure the packing and the leg into the joint with glue.

3. Fill any cracks in the wood with glue and allow to dry. Sand down the area and re-finish. Apply wax over the area as well.

4. Purchase a new adjustable drive band for the wheel to replace one that is worn down or missing. The drive band will be customizable. Fit it around the wheel and flyer or bobbin and cut to size, then snap in position according to the package directions. You can purchase a clear, standard drive band or find them in a variety of colors.

5. Purchase flyer hook replacement parts for hooks that are missing. You can obtain them from a spinning wheel manufacturer. You may also need to replace any hooks that have become rusted or jagged, as they can tear the yarn while spinning.

Tips & Warnings

• The glues used on this type of project can be hazardous, so always use them in a well-ventilated area.

References

• Janelle Studio: Weaving Loom and Spinning Wheel Maintenance and Repair
• The Spinning Wheel Sleuth: How to Buy an Antique Spinning Wheel