View the highlights & photographs from our April 2009 issue.

Issue #64 - April 2009

In this issue we travel to southwestern Pennsylvania to learn about a family of spinning-wheel makers. Another variation of double-flyer wheel structures is presented, and a spinner explains her exploration of spinning techniques for a two-handed wheel. Also we look at variations of axle cranks.

Identifying Miller/Lee Spinning Wheels

Last year an exhibit at the Somerset Historical Center, Somerset, PA, brought together a group of spinning wheels made by members of the Miller family. Mark Ware, the museum educator there, took the opportunity to study the distinctive characteristics of these wheels. He explains how to identify wheels by these craftsmen.

Great wheel marked J. MILLER.
Courtesy of Hartman Collection

J. MILLER stamp

Spindle post with direct-drive spindle head

Miller/Lee school unsigned flax wheel.
Courtesy of Haupt Memorial Collection

A "T-Top" Double-Flyer Wheel

T-tops are another variation of American double-flyer spinning wheels. Michael Taylor tells about one he recently acquired. He also recounts his discussion with Dave Pennington about an extra piece that came with the wheel.

T-top wheel before restoration

Two-Handed Spinning: One Spinner’s Experience

Cyndy Donohue had an opportunity to spin on a restored double-flyer wheel. She describes her trials and errors looking for the correct technique and the question that she is still trying to answer.

Double-flyer wheel marked B. SANFORD

Spinning with two hands

About Axle Cranks

Peter Teal had a question about the axle crank on the "Unique Flax Wheel" Michael Taylor wrote about in Issue #62. It led to more thoughts about axle cranks in general and on double-treadle wheels.

Axle crank on "unique" wheel