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Rachel
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Danish bobbins can indeed be used for most laces, although sewings can become a bit tedious with them because of the bulk. Just as other types of bobbins developed in areas, the Danish bobbins became traditional in Denmark. Normally the bobbin is n ot spangled as the wooden bulb on the end generally gives enough weight. I do drill my danish bobbins for spangles when requested (at no additional charge) if that option is desired.
Traditionally the bobbins are gripped by approuching the pillow with your palms facing down, and capturing one wooden bulb of the pair between the index finger and middle finger and the second wooden bulb between the middle finger and the ring finger . This can make for some very fast lacing. Certainly some woods will weigh differently as will shape, but that becomes a concern when you get to the outer edges of the wood spectrum. - i.e. Lingum Vatia & Snakewood vs pine & English Yew.
Personally I have always spangled all of my bobbins based solely on visual stimulii rather then weight. While I am very new to lacemaking, I cannot tell the weight difference in the bobbins. Or probably just have not gotten good enough at it yet. : -) Fortunatly we have not refined the art of bobbin making to a standardization table where one makes a 17 gram bobbin or a 19 gram bobbin. (To be honest, I couldn't tell the difference when I played darts either) :-)
[ -Does the design of the spiral shanks interfere with the thread? They look like they would get the thread all twisted up, but they are quite visually appealing. ]
An interesting question and one that I have hade to deal with since offering them. Sorry to make this posting so long but perhaps a bit of background is needed. There is a history of spiral shanked danish bobbins, but the spiral is quite minimumist . As a bobbinmaker I view my job as creating a useable tool for the making of lace, while also presenting that tool in a pleasing shape that tests the ability of the material used. Now, having said that in a grandious manner, it really means that I try to push the edges of design and do at times make failures to mark the limitations of the material. Things should be new and exciting, but traditional shapes are traditional because they work well, and innertwing the two should create what I am attempting. Altimenty the bobbin is still a tool and must work as such. My spiral incorporates a lot of handwork (one of the reasons I do this) and creates a shape that causes one to look at again. But this is not what I feel is a good bobbin. It does work quite well and does not twist the threads, but you are always aware of it on the pillow. It was also one that I made shortly after starting bobbinmaking and have learned alot since then. I have lessened the degree of spiral somewhat, and have still maintained the integrity of the design element. At least I think so. :-)
Kenn