Durham Guild of Spinners Weavers and Dyers

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 The Durham Guild had an open day on Saturday. Anyone can come in to try various activities such as spinning and weaving.  

We also had a show and tell of scarves and shawls. All the items were laid out for people to see and touch. Here are some of the pictures.

Close up of three scarves

This was one of three lace knits. 

This is my silk scarf.  I wove it some time ago but had not finished the fringing. I was able to complete quite a bit at the meeting and show the scarf as well. 

It was really fascinating to hear about each of the scarves and shawls and see the amazing range of colours and knitting techniques.  Next year the topic will be socks. 

We have a wonderful craftsman who comes to our meetings although he does not weave or spin.  He does mend items and  he is really kind and helpful.

This Saturday he was asked to look at a 100 year old Canadian spinning wheel - a production model.   

It is in a poor state of repair, but Bill is confident that he can resurrect this lovely piece of historical equipment. 

100 year old Canadian spinning wheel.

The wheel is very light and he thinks that is is probably made of Canadian cedar.  It is also badly damaged.

Close up of some of the damage to the wheel

The mechanism seems to be made of cast iron. The foot plate has not been finished when it came out of the mold. 

Cast iron foot plate

The bobbin holder is also damaged. It seems to have been made for spinning fine threads.

It will be quite a task to fettle, mend, renovate, and polish. I am looking forward to seeing the spinning wheel in its new working form in the future. 

Susan J Foulkes October 2023