I'm going to do the unthinkable!

I bought my Ashford Traveller about 8 years ago. I don't spin on her often, though I love her to death. For many years, I have considered this, but never, ever, until now, did I ever make a final decision: I'm gonna take her apart and...

paint her! Yes. I will sand and paint my wheel. I am the kind of person who likes things to be individualized. I individualize educational programs for my job, I individualize knitting patterns, and yes, now I will individualize my wheel. I imagined going to insubordiknits workshop with my girl the way she is, and felt sad and dejected. This is not the wheel of my dreams. She spins well for me, but she needs a makeover. For years I have known this day would come. Today, somehow, I found my inspiration! Costa Rican ox carts. I have long admired beautiful tole-painted antique wheels, however, my artistic skill only spans fiber, not paint, nor especially, drawing. These are painted with simple stylized shapes with a standardized shading technique. I believe I can do this. I have been favoriting ox-carts on Flickr! all morning. I know. I have issues. The painting of the wheel is like a rebirth for her. To this day, she has no name. As soon as decided on a color scheme, a name hit me: Isabella. She is not Isabella yet, but she will be soon! I am painting her after my birthday dress. If you've ever seen my birthday dress, be afraid, be very afraid. This wheel will not be for the faint of hear. I'm a little nervous about the resale value and also, about my ability, however, there is no time like summer vacation to get started on yet another project!