Book Charkha Spinning

– India

Modernly, the book or Peti Charkha is a novelty spinning wheel that is relatively cheap to purchase compared to most wheels and can be found on quite a few websites where spinning wheels are sold, though there are delicately few instructions for them. I have also found instructions for 3D printed book charkas which might be good for classes, but I’m not sure how good they would be for general wear and tear. This wheel is… not period. But it is delightfully portable and I’ve seen it at multiple SCA events. It was invented between 1920 and 1940.[1] So do with this information what you will.

 

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A picture of an open book charkhra. This will disassemble and fold down to be the size of a large book. I've had success spinning wool on it more than cotton or silk, but that might be because I'm more practiced in wool.[1]​