Schacht Ladybug Spinning Wheel Review: A Reliable and Versatile Choice

If you're looking for a reliable, well-built, and versatile spinning wheel, the Schacht Ladybug is an excellent choice. Designed for both beginner and experienced spinners, this wheel is not only easy to use but also highly adaptable, making it a favourite among fibre artists. In this review, we look closer at its features, performance, and why it continues to stand out in the spinning community.

A Solid Performer with Impressive Versatility

One of the standout features of the Schacht Ladybug is its versatility. Unlike many spinning wheels that are limited to one tension system, the Ladybug allows spinners to choose between Scotch tension, double drive, and bobbin-led (Irish tension). This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for those who like experimenting with different techniques or for those who want to invest in a wheel that allows them to grow their skills.

Personally, I love using the Ladybug in Scotch tension—it’s my go-to setting, and I’m lucky enough to have other wheels set up with different drive modes for variety. What I adore about Scotch tension on the Ladybug is how perfectly balanced and easy to control it is. It lets me spin just about anything without needing to constantly adjust settings. But here’s the thing: if you’re a fan of a more efficient spinning experience, with light uptake, double drive is fantastic. It offers a unique uptake that’s perfect for those who love the long draw technique. For those who enjoy a bit more pull—especially art yarn spinners who thrive on that strong tug—Irish tension is also an option. The Ladybug truly shines by catering to a wide range of spinning styles, making it a versatile wheel for every spinner’s needs.

Exceptional Control and Adjustability

When you spin with the Ladybug in Scotch tension, the brake band runs over the back of the bobbin—the end with the larger groove—while the drive band loops over a groove in the whorl to regulate the speed/ratio. Adjusting the take-up is incredibly easy with just a quick twist of a small knob, allowing you to fine-tune your spinning experience based on the fibre you're working with.

Thanks to the included medium and fast flyer whorls, you get a great range of spinning ratios to experiment with. But if you’re looking for even more precision, Schacht has you covered with additional whorls—extra slow, slow, high, and super high-speed options—plus an optional bulky plyer flyer. The bulky plyer flyer features a larger orifice and a bigger bobbin, giving you even more versatility. This flexibility means you can effortlessly spin everything from thick, textured yarns to delicate, high-twist laceweight threads, making the Ladybug an incredibly adaptable wheel for every type of project.

Thoughtful Design and Quality Craftsmanship

Schacht is known for its high-quality spinning wheels, and the Ladybug is no exception. Built from solid maple and maple plywood, this wheel is durable and beautifully crafted. The polyurethane drive wheel ensures a smooth treadling experience, and the wheel is finished with Danish oil, enhancing its natural beauty and longevity.

One of my favourite details is the hidden ladybug emblem—every Schacht Ladybug wheel comes with a tiny red ladybug hidden somewhere on the frame, making each wheel truly unique!

Another smart design choice is the double treadle system, which offers smooth and effortless spinning regardless of whether you use one treadle or both. The treadles are comfortable underfoot and the overall action of the wheel is fluid and easy to control, making it a great choice for long spinning sessions.

A Portable and Convenient Wheel

While the Ladybug is not a folding wheel, it is lightweight (at just over 6kgs) and compact, making it easy to transport. The multiple built-in carrying handles in the legs make it simple to pick up and move around, whether you're heading to a workshop, a spinning retreat, or just shifting it to a new spot in your home. If you’re looking for a wheel that can travel with you without too much hassle, the Ladybug is a great option.

Another useful accessory is the optional attached tensioned lazy kate, which integrates into the front leg of the wheel. This add-on makes plying more convenient and ensures that everything you need is in one place.

What's Included with the Schacht Ladybug?

Each Schacht Ladybug Spinning Wheel comes with:

• A poly drive band for smooth spinning
• A threading hook to make threading easier
• Three travel bobbins, each with a size of 3" x 4.5" and a weight of 3.5 oz
• Medium and fast whorls, providing a good range of spinning speeds
• A double drive band, allowing you to switch between drive systems as needed
• A 41cm (16") drive wheel and a 0.95cm (0.375") orifice diameter for a smooth spinning experience

This well-rounded package means you have everything you need to get started right away, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced spinner looking for a reliable wheel.

The Verdict: Why the Ladybug Stands Out

The Schacht Ladybug spinning wheel is a fantastic choice for spinners who want a reliable, adaptable, and well-crafted wheel. Here’s why it stands out:

• Versatile tension systems: Works with Scotch Tension, double drive, and bobbin-led Irish Tension setups.
• Smooth and controlled spinning: Easy take-up adjustments for different yarn types.
• High-quality construction: Durable maple wood and a polyurethane drive wheel.
• Portable and practical: Lightweight ~6kgs (13.5 lbs) with built-in carrying handles.
• Expandable spinning options: Comes with medium and fast whorls, with additional whorls available for different spinning speeds. Increase capacity and capabilities for art and bulky yarns further with the optional bulky plyer flyer.
• A fun and unique touch: Each wheel comes with its own hidden ladybug emblem.
• Optional inbuilt lazy kate: For those who value space consider adding the inbuilt lazy kate. Useful for both bobbin storage as well as tensioned plying.

Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, this wheel offers both performance and charm in equal measure. It’s an investment that will serve you well for years to come.

Ready to Start Spinning?

The Schacht Ladybug is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile, portable, and user-friendly spinning wheel. Whether the Ladybug is your ideal match or you're exploring other options, we invite you to discover our curated selection of spinning wheels, accessories, and fibres at Thread Collective. Find the perfect companion for your fibre arts journey!