May I Introduce Empress Phebe!

She's here, she's here!!! I'd like to introduce you to Empress Phebe!


Isn't she Beautiful?!? Phebe arrived today and quickly took up her spot in her new home. I've been working on a functional drive band. I have three, but all are slipping a bit here and there. Have been advised to get some violin rosin to help with this, so will try to get some while I'm out tomorrow. Current, and probably final, drive band is a large candlewick band. I think in part because her former band was heavily waxed, that is part of the reason it's slipping.

Here's a closeup of the wheel itself.
And the spindle head. It's a simple spindle, and quite likely not the original, since the spindle wood doesn't really match the rest of the wheel. The leather ties are new, but I've oiled them thoroughly. Once my band is regularly connecting with the spindle whorl, I think all will be well. I've tried it at a variety of tensions, but nothing seems to work.

Another view of the spindle. We did notice that the spindle itself seems somewhat rusty. Suggestions on what I can treat it with? This cop (that's what they call the wrapped up yarn on the spindle!) was the one I spun when we tried it out at the previous owner's home before it was rescued from being furniture.


I'm sure you'll be hearing more stories as we get to know each other over the next few weeks. I can't wait to actually spin on her!