Kimberly writes: <<If you have any ideas on which I might prefer where I have always spun on a Country Craftsman, please, let me know!>>
Some thoughts to consider.... The CC is a "relatively" fast wheel - not super speedy, but faster than most portables. Make sure you get at least that speed from any other wheel you buy or you probably won't be very happy with it. Consider deliberately buying a Scotch tension or convertible wheel. ST generally provides much more flexibility in the types of yarns you can comfortably spin than DD does. What degree of portability do you really want? A wheel that will fit easily into a van and is easy to carry into a meeting from a parking lot is a bit different from one that needs to fly with you in a plane, for instance. Either way, look for sturdy, not just pretty. Some wheels come with carry bags and/or wheels to roll on, allowing larger wheels to be portable in that they're easier to move, but then of course you still have to factor in putting the wheel into a car, bus, plane, or snowmobile :) Finally, if at all possible, try the wheels you're considering. Every wheel feels a bit different to treadle and spin on; to adjust tension and put the drive band on, etc. I've sat at some wheels that instantly felt like old friends, while others remained enemies with me after hours of spinning. I particularly loathe double treadle wheels :) I don't like the rigidity with which I have to sit, and in spite of manufacturers' claims, none that I have tried have been stable enough when used as a single treadle to spin well. I wouldn't have known this without borrowing a friend's DT wheel for a week. I'm *really* glad I didn't buy that wheel, for its speed, sight unseen! Good luck with your search! Do report back on what you decide to do. Holly
