pins and because the wheel adjustment screws actually work (meaning you can turn them and something happens), the drive wheel can
be displaced laterally. In an ideal spinning scenario, you want the wheel to always line up with the whorl and bobbin so that the drive
band tracks well around the wheel and over the whorls. You adjust this tracking (we call it aiming) by turning the two wheel adjust-
ment screws simultaneously but in opposite directions. Always rotate both screws the same amount and never one at a time.
The best way to “aim” the wheel is to stand looking at the wheel from the wheel end. Eyeball a straight line from the wheel to the gap
between the bobbin and the whorl. You can do this with or without the drive band being on. If you want to “aim” the wheel more to
your right, take hold of both wheel adjustment screws and rotate both of them out or away from the wheel. If you need to “aim” the
wheel to the left, take hold of both wheel adjustment screws and rotate both of them in towards the wheel. You will see the wheel
move on its axis in the direction you want. Once this adjustment is made you will not need to do this step again until you change
whorl size, if then. Remember, always adjust the screws simultaneously, in opposite directions and in equal increments.
As with any new wheel, there will be a break-in period, not only for the wheel but for the spinner to get accustomed to the feel and
adjustments that need to be made during spinning. Follow the lubrication suggestions below and then treadle for a while without spin-
ning. Make sure there is nothing on the shaft that will impede easy rotation of the bobbin. Make sure the treadle/footman connection
is secure. Make sure the footman does not touch the bench (or make adjustments as noted above). Find the “sweet spot” on the treadle
that will allow you to start the wheel from nearly any position without the use of your hand. The Polonaise has a good heel/toe feel:
position your foot on the treadle so you can get this feel.
Maintenance
All spinning wheels have points that require lubrication. On the Polonaise, you need to regularly oil the following points:
Treadle ends where they enter the front legs
Leather bearings that support the flyer
Metal spindle shaft at both ends where the bobbin bearings ride
The footman/crank point
The two metal pin/cup bearings points on the wheel hub; alternately, you might want to put some petroleum jelly in the cups as it is
less prone to dripping out.
Your Kromski Polonaise comes with a handy needle nose oiling bottle. It is ideal for all these locations. We recommend that all these
points be oiled when you begin spinning for the day and you may want to oil the pin/cup bearing more often.
Because of the manner of aiming the wheel towards the flyer and using the thumb screws to hold the wheel, your wheel posts will in
time deflect (we are talking about 3-6 years). To bring everything back to “normal,” swap the 2 wheel posts; remove the bolts that
hold the posts to the bench, remove the posts and exchange them front to back - back to front.
Books
Hands-on Spinning by Lee Raven - the “standard” for all new spinners
Videos
Spinning Wool - Basics and Beyond by Patsy Zawistoski
If you have any questions about your Polonaise or any concerns, please contact your retailer or we welcome your calls at New Voy-
ager Trading. We can help. Call: 229-227-1322.
From time to time changes may be made to these instructions. You can obtain an updated version any time by visiting our web site at
www.newvoyager.com
The Kromski may make changes to this wheel. Any change that affects assembly will be noted; other type of changes may not be
shown.
Kromski Spinning Wheels
Imported and Distributed by
New Voyager Trading
Thomasville, GA 31792
229-859-2001
www.kromskina.com
Kromski Spinning Wheels
Imported and Distributed by
Kromski North America
Pavo, GA 31778
