Lacemaking Bobbins

To create good lacemaking bobbins they must first and foremost be practical. The most beautiful bobbin is absolutely no good if the thread keeps slipping off, or if it doesn't have enough weight to keep the thread tensioned. These are my criteria when I start a new design.

1. The finish must be absolutely smooth so it won't catch and break delicate threads

2. The head must be sufficient 'flared' to hold the hitch so the thread doesn't slip.

3. The neck must be long enough to hold a reasonable amount of thread for larger pieces or when using thicker threads.

4. The neck must be thick enough to stand the tension of thread being pulled against it.

5. The body must lie flat on the pillow

6. The body must have sufficient strength to carry the Spangles for tensioning.

7. The body must feel right in the fingers when you are working and not catch.

8. The tail must have enough length to allow the bobbin to be properly spangled

9. The hole for spangling must be smooth and properly placed

10. The Bobbin must be beautiful and show off the lovely woods.

You can see more of my designs and find out about what I am currently making and have available for sale at Lacemaking Bobbins

I've been busy in the workshop this week playing around with a lump of Random Wood and have come up with a couple of rather nice (even if I say so myself) Pin Vices. These particular lacemaking tools are different from my usual style, they have a longer, slender handle rather than the 'Mushroom' style I usually make. The Mushroom style are definitely better for anyone with slightly arthritic hands or who has difficulty gripping, but if you prefer a pen grip when pricking your patterns, you will like these new ones. They are still quite light in weight and have delicate markings on the wood, which is why they were promoted from 'Beenatree' to 'Random Wood' - and if you want to know the story behind that you can check out the explanation on my blog at Lacemaking Bobbins

The latest bobbins I have been working on are made from a lovely wood which is easy to work because it is slightly oily until polished and finished.

Lignum Vitae is a heavy, dense wood, the color varies from greenish to a rich nutty color as it ages. The wood is subtly marked and takes a high polish. These bobbins feel silky smooth in the hand and are a delight to use.

The bobbins are approx 4½ inches (11.5 cms) long with a neck of approx 1inch (2.5 cms) allowing for plenty of thread if required. All bobbins are drilled for spangling.

Each bobbin is individually crafted so whilst each style of bobbin is very similar no two are exactly alike.

You can find them here - Lignum Vitae Lacemaking Bobbins