Perhaps this project dream is a little too ambitious. I hope not. I have been looking for a mechanical (not computer) dobby for a Leclerc Nilus loom. The loom is a traditional jack style that I think I will have to modify to work better with a dobby. That isn't the biggest problem. If I can find a mechanical dobby on the inexpensive side ;-) I would like to just buy it. If it is need of repair, I think I can handle it. Leclerc is of no help here even though they used to make and sell dobbys for this loom. I have looked at some close up pictures of a mechanical dobby and I can see how they operate. Making one would consume a lot of time, but might be a meaningful challenge. Any input here to help with this challenge would be greatly appreciated.

You are welcome to try to convince me that I am crazy to try this. At this stage I am merely "designing" it in my mind's eye.

Alex Mann

Comments

Fri, 05/06/2011 - 17:49

Threshkin (not verified)

I have an AVL mechanical dobby.  It is not for sale but I will be happy to take closeup pictures or answer questions about it for you.  The mechanics are fairly simple when you break down the components.

Fri, 05/06/2011 - 19:15

Badfaerie (not verified)

Please, please, please keep us informed of how this project goes for you and post lots and lots of pictures!

If a mechanical dobby can be made/modified/engineered for the Nilus, it should be able to be made/modified/engineered for other looms as well.

Fri, 05/06/2011 - 20:01

Threshkin (not verified)

Yes, a dobby mechanism is basically independent of the loom.  It basically replaces the treadle tye up process and automatically "ties up" one treadle each pick.  The pegs (or holes) in the dobby bar (card) define the tie up each time.  It is like having an unlimited number of treadles.

Thu, 05/12/2011 - 03:23

ammann58 (not verified)

I would love to have detailed pictures or drawings of the dobby. AVL is a very nice one as far as I can tell. I have a Leclerc Nilus that I expect I will have to modify the castle of, but I was thinking of increasing the number of harnesses anyway. It is likely a long term project, but I have done some modifications to the loom already (made my own sectional warp beam). I want to make a flying shuttle race for it as well.

Thu, 05/12/2011 - 03:25

ammann58 (not verified)

I am primarily after the reliability of weaving a pattern. I get many interruptions when I am weaving and a mechanical dobby would be a welcomed addition for the complex patterns and structures.

Sat, 06/11/2011 - 20:18

Bonnie Inouye (not verified)

You might look for a Louet dobby head and bars and pegs. It is possible to buy a Louet loom with mechanical dobby in your choice of styles and number of shafts, and many if not all of these can be upgraded to computer-assist looms. Somebody might be selling the mechanical part. Their bars are expensive.

I have an AVL dobby head with some bars and pegs for a 24-shaft loom in my attic but not where I am living now. I might sell that one eventually.