Spinning Wheels and Drop Spindles
Let's talk about Spinning
Spinning is done by twisting loose fibres into each other, creating a longer and stronger thread. It can be done in several ways; for example, with one’s fingers, a drop spindle or a spinning wheel. Spinning with your fingers is a very slow process that will produce an irregular yarn. Using a drop spindle will ease the process. A drop spindle is made of a round stick to which a flat round disk has been attached. A string is attached to this disk and the drop spindle hangs with the disk down. On one hand the spinner holds fibres to be spun, the other hand takes small amounts of fibres and adds this to the existing yarn. Use a free hand to spin the drop spindle and the twisting movement of the drop spindle creates yarn.
A huge improvement compared to the drop spindle is the use of the spinning wheel. Take a look at our range of spinning wheels for sale and find your perfect match.
Louet Spinning Wheels
Louët wheels have been carefully engineered to be easy to use, durable, low-maintenance and practical. The S10, which was developed in the 1970s, has been such a success that it is a classic among modern spinning wheels.
The first generation Louët spinning wheels, like the S10 and S17, all have a single belt bobbin drive with an adjustable flyer brake to regulate tension. This results in spinning wheels that are very easy to learn how to spin on, and the wheels are very suitable to spin thicker yarns. The bobbins have a sheave with three settings that can be used to obtain three spinning speeds or ratios. By using different types of bobbins and flyers, Louët spinning wheels can be used to produce every kind of yarn, from coarse wool to fine silks.
Ashford Spinning Wheels
Whether you are still starting to learn the art of spinning or have been using a spinning wheel for years, there is sure to be an Ashford spinning wheel to suit your style and needs. For over 80 years, Ashford has been manufacturing premium quality spinning wheels in New Zealand. Ashford spinning wheels are highly regarded around the world because these are built to stand the test of time and have also been improved over the years.
Ashford's range of spinning wheels includes the Traditional spinning wheel and the Elizabeth spinning wheel, foldable and super portable spinning wheels like the Kiwi 3 and Joy 2, or the super-compact Ashford e-spinners. The Ashford spinning range also includes drop spindles and many other fibre preparation tools.
Schacht Spinning Wheels
Schacht spinning wheels are designed and manufactured in the US. They are known for their quality, workmanship, and how they have always aimed to improve their products over the years. The Schacht spinning wheel range includes the Ladybug, Flatiron, Matchless, Sidekick, and Reeves. These are eye-catching and highly functional spinning wheels that you will surely love.
What are Electric Spinning Wheels?
While regular spinning wheels are already quite easy to use and popular among spinners of all levels, electric spinning wheels are built for spinners who want to get the work done as fast as possible, especially when working with large batches of fibre.
Here at Thread Collective, we offer electric spinners from Ashford, the e-Spinner 3 and the Jumbo e-Spinner. Both of these electric spinners are portable and provide quick and easy bobbin change.
Buy Spinning Wheels Online
If you are looking for a spinning wheel for sale but you don’t have time to go out and look for one, ordering one online should be a much more convenient option for you. Thread Collective offers shipping Australia-wide, so your new spinning wheel should be delivered straight to your door. Browse one of the biggest collections of spinning wheels Australia has.
Take a look at our range of spinning wheels for sale and you might find your perfect match. We also have a wide range of animal fibres and plant fibres for spinning, as well as spinning wheel spare parts and accessories.
Buy a spinning wheel today and get started on this wonderful craft!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the length/weight of a spindle affect my spinning?
The length and weight of a spindle impact your spinning experience in the following ways:
1. Spinning Speed: Spindles that are longer and heavier contribute to a decrease in spinning speed but offer greater stability. Conversely, shorter, lighter spindles have more momentum, leading to a faster spinning experience.
2. Yarn Thickness: Longer and heavier spindles are conducive to producing thicker yarns, whereas shorter and lighter spindles are more suitable for crafting fine, delicate yarns.
3. Ease of Use: Although the heavier spindles may require more effort, their slower spin can be less overwhelming for novice spinners. A faster spin often makes beginners feel out of control and can result in over-twisting. Nonetheless, the park and draft method proves to be a valuable technique for overcoming these initial challenges.
Experimenting with different combinations will help you find what works best for your spinning style.