Spinning Wheel
Production date
Circa 1960-1970
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Object detail
Accession number
2005.45
Description
Spinning wheel, probably homebuilt in the 1960s or 1970s. No maker's plate or identification.
The spinning wheel's function is to twist the fibre as the spinner pulls it to the proper thickness. By pumping a foot pedal, the spinner causes the wheel to spin. The wheel, in turn, drives a band which causes the spindle and bobbin to rotate rapidly. The spinner stretches the wool, the spindle twists it into thread and the bobbin collects up the finished product.
The spinning wheel's function is to twist the fibre as the spinner pulls it to the proper thickness. By pumping a foot pedal, the spinner causes the wheel to spin. The wheel, in turn, drives a band which causes the spindle and bobbin to rotate rapidly. The spinner stretches the wool, the spindle twists it into thread and the bobbin collects up the finished product.
Brief History
A spinning wheel is a simple machine designed to twist fibre into thread.
This spinning wheel is an example of the Saxony wheel which was invented in the 15th century, with a treadle added to the design in the early 16th century. The treadle allowed the spinner to have both hands free to pull out the fibres.
Spinning wheels would have been commonly used in New Zealand by European settlers to process wool from their home flocks.
This spinning wheel is an example of the Saxony wheel which was invented in the 15th century, with a treadle added to the design in the early 16th century. The treadle allowed the spinner to have both hands free to pull out the fibres.
Spinning wheels would have been commonly used in New Zealand by European settlers to process wool from their home flocks.
Media/Materials
Other name
Saxony wheel
Credit Line
Circa 1960-1970. Spinning Wheel, 2005.45. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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