Recreated wire spools

Description

Thread spools based on finds from Alvastra monastery in Östergötland

Experience the rich history of medieval Sweden with our handmade coils, inspired by historical finds in Alvastra monastery. These coils, dating from the 1150s to the 1530s, have been turned on a modern lathe to replicate the traditional techniques of yesteryear. Unlike many modern coils, no oiled wax or sandpaper is used in the finishing process, ensuring that each coil is unique and authentic. Final adjustments are made with a soap knife. Add a piece of history to your craft collection with our Alvastra monastery recreated coils.

For more information about these finds, see historical here and here

Dated to about 1150 – 1530.

Those found were mostly of bone and bronze, but one was of wood.

A little about coils:
Bobbins have been used in textile and knitting crafts for centuries, ever since the Viking Age. During this time spools were made of wood and used to hold yarn or thread when weaving or knitting. These early spools were probably hand carved with simple tools, e.g. knives or chisels.

During the Middle Ages bobbins continued to be used in textile crafts and were often made by skilled craftsmen. These coils were usually made of wood and were often decorated with intricate carvings or designs.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Industrial Revolution brought new technology and new methods of mass production of coils. This led to the development of machine-made coils, which were cheaper and more readily available than their handmade counterparts.

At the turn of the century 1900, with the new technology, spools were manufactured with a variety of materials, e.g. plastic and metal. However, many craftsmen continued to prefer the traditional wooden coils due to their warmth and natural beauty.

Today, wooden bobbins are still used in textile crafts and are valued for their traditional appearance and handmade quality. Many modern wooden spools are now manufactured using lathes, allowing for precise and efficient production while maintaining the traditional techniques and aesthetics of their handmade counterparts.

 

If you want to make your own, whether with a carving knife or a lathe, I have uploaded a pdf with measurements https://usercontent.one/wp/www.sloydjuntan.se/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/AlvastraBobbins.pdf?media=1716741283

And if you want to see how it is made, you can check here