Warping mill

A warping mill prepares warp threads before a loom is dressed. Yarn is wound around the equipment to arrange threads in the required length and order. The completed warp is then transferred to the loom. The weaving itself therefore does not take place on the mill.

A common older Norwegian form has two rectangular frames crossing around a vertical shaft. Adjustable turning pegs allow the warp length to be varied, while lease pegs help preserve thread order. Construction and mounting differ, and loose frame components can be difficult to identify without context.

Distinguish a warping mill from a yarn swift used in handling skeins, and from the beams forming part of a loom. When buying an older example, check shaft, frames, pegs and supporting stand or mount for completeness. Missing pegs can obscure its original function. Record provenance and modern replacement parts. Traditional construction alone does not prove great age, as later versions of this equipment also exist.

Sources: Audun Dybdahl, Store norske leksikon: rennebom; Barbro Tronhuus Storlien, Store norske leksikon: renning; Louët: drehbarer Schärbaum, nyere utførelse; Store norske leksikon: garnvinde.