This is Ruth. I love her. She is an Ashford Traveller, (double drive, baby)!
Ruth
She is “unfinished” which means every once in a while (probably once a month, but let’s get real), she needs to be cleaned and rubbed with oil/wax.
I call this a “spa day”. That is today.
I start by gathering all the supplies that I will need, because as my hero, Alton Brown, says “Organization will set you free!”
I need something to cover the floor, Howard’s Feed N’ Wax, an old paint brush, a rag, and vaseline.
I also wear gloves because I am a bit of a princess….
Must have ipod and a spinning podcast to listen to.
I take off the drive band, so the spa day doesn’t end with me hanging myself. I put Ruth on an old Snuggie that no one likes.
Don’t forget the coffee….
Then, starting with the legs, using a liberal amount of Feed N’ Wax, I slather it on with a soft cloth.
Nothing delicate here, that’s why the Snuggie is here.
Working my way up, I try to remember to coat the unseen parts and undersides, too.
Give the flyer some love and don’t forget the bobbins, like I do.
Some people will tell you to rub off the excess, or “buff to a shine”, but Ruth drinks up all the stuff I put on her, so I don’t bother.
Finally, grab that old paintbrush and rub vaseline onto all moving parts. I like to shove the tiny brush into the tiny places while turning the wheel. That way, I know all parts are well lubed. All of that takes me less than an hour. If you look closely, you can see her smiling!