Spinning wheel

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File:180522-alpaca-spinnen-gotthard-passhöhe-silent.webm == Spinning Wheel ==

A spinning wheel is a device for spinning thread or yarn from natural or synthetic fibers. It was fundamental to the textile industry prior to the Industrial Revolution. The spinning wheel replaced earlier methods of hand spinning with a spindle and was a key development in the history of textile production.

History

The origins of the spinning wheel are unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in India between 500 and 1000 AD. It spread to China, Persia, and eventually to Europe by the 13th century. The spinning wheel played a crucial role in the cottage industry and was a common household item in many cultures.

Types of Spinning Wheels

There are several types of spinning wheels, each designed for specific purposes:

• Great Wheel: Also known as the walking wheel, it is one of the oldest types of spinning wheels. It is operated by turning a large wheel with one hand while the other hand draws out the fiber.
• Saxony Wheel: This type has a horizontal orientation and is often used for spinning wool. It features a treadle that allows the spinner to use both hands to draft the fiber.
• Castle Wheel: A more compact design with a vertical orientation, making it easier to transport and store.
• Charkha: A small, portable spinning wheel used primarily in India, famously promoted by Mahatma Gandhi as a symbol of self-sufficiency and independence.

Components

A typical spinning wheel consists of several key components:

• Flyer: A U-shaped device that twists the fiber into yarn.
• Bobbin: A cylindrical component that holds the spun yarn.
• Treadle: A foot pedal used to drive the wheel.
• Drive Wheel: The large wheel that is turned to operate the spinning mechanism.
• Mother-of-All: The part of the wheel that holds the flyer, bobbin, and other components.

Operation

The basic operation of a spinning wheel involves the spinner drafting the fiber, which is then twisted by the flyer and wound onto the bobbin. The treadle is used to keep the drive wheel in motion, allowing for continuous spinning.

Cultural Significance

The spinning wheel has significant cultural and historical importance. In India, the charkha is a symbol of the Swadeshi movement and self-reliance. In Europe, spinning wheels are often associated with folklore and fairy tales, such as the story of Sleeping Beauty.

Decline and Modern Use

With the advent of the Industrial Revolution and the development of mechanized spinning technologies, the use of traditional spinning wheels declined. However, they are still used by hobbyists and artisans who appreciate the craft of hand-spinning.

Related Pages

• Textile
• Cottage industry
• Industrial Revolution
• Mahatma Gandhi
• Swadeshi movement
• Sleeping Beauty