I brought back this wooden spool from Japan back in 2007. I wanted to get a pair but the ones in the antique store were mismatched and rickety; this was the only one I could find in such perfect condition. It rode in my suitcase all over Japan and the Philippines and then back home to Chicago and finally Tampa. It has sat on my shelf collecting dust waiting to be displayed properly or transformed into something new, like a plant stand, a lantern or some other kind of useful ornament. Last night I considered listing it on eBay because the ones on sale there by Japanese antique dealers were asking around $40 + $13 shipping for them, and they were all light unstained wood, and smaller than the one I have. I figured it was special and might do well in an auction or BIN $49.00/free shipping.
As I was photographing it I was capturing some really beautiful textures, angles, and colors. As I was handling it I could feel the dings and polishes from its use, and the warmth from its naturalness and tradition. Knowing how spinners, weavers, and other traditional crafts are dying in Japan, I could feel the history and importance of this item. After hearing from Fox how much even HE treasures the piece, I realized that letting it go might be a mistake.
So I feel it's my duty to repurpose it or preserve it, maybe even some day revive its original intended purpose, wind some silk or cotton around it and weave a beautiful textile from it. Weaving is something I've wanted to do all my life. Maybe this thing is the little push I needed to make me pursue it.