The Speedweve was made in Manchester, hence the name 'Lancashire's Smallest Loom.' I am not sure when this one was made, but judging by the price tag on the box it is quite old. The North of England was well known for its production of cotton cloth. My grandparents and great-grandparents worked as weavers in Burnley, which during the Industrial Revolution became one of Lancashire's prominent mill towns. I don't recall my Grandma ever using the Speedweve but I am sure there are a few folk out there who remember them.
I would love to find some old fabrics that were mended on this little loom, there is something quite beautiful about repeatedly darned cloth.
This is really interesting! Lovely photos and info, and a beautiful collection. Can't wait to see more x
ReplyDeleteThanks very much for your comments Sheena. I am pleased you like the collection x
ReplyDeleteIn 1961, I bought a darning tool/loom from a London street market for half-a-crown. I'm amazed that they are so expensive now !
ReplyDeleteI love your blog as I tend to collect any old bits and pieces too including handicraft items especially sewing, knitting and crochet hooks. I also have the 2 x Speedweveve looms which I bought at an Ideal Homes exhibition in Waverley Market in Edinburgh probably in the very early 1950's when i was amazed at the neatness of the repairs. I was born during the made do and mend era and darning was regularly done in my home by both msyself, sister and mum. Best Wishes. Rosina
ReplyDeleteIn New Lanark: Ihave seen one like that, at the textile factory exhibition. The explanation was: Speed weave daner, about 1950. Made be E&A Chesstok Ltd. Estanley Avenue. Manchester. "Small darning machine make it much quicker and asier to repair holes compared wich darning by hand using a needle and thread"
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