Traditional Spinning Wheel | Ashford
The world’s most popular spinning wheel, timeless, reliable, and beautifully crafted. The Ashford Traditional is perfect for beginners and experienced spinners alike, offering the option between smooth double or single drive operation with a classic, durable design. Whether you're spinning fine yarns or bulky fibers, this wheel combines traditional aesthetics with modern performance to bring your spinning to life. Weave a little bit of joy and tradition to every spin.
There’s something soul-satisfying about the gentle rhythm of a spinning wheel, especially when it just works. The Ashford Traditional Spinning Wheel is beloved by generations of spinners for its ease, dependability, and classic charm. Whether you're spinning fibre into yarn for weaving, knitting or crochet or simply spinning skeins for your next dye pot (or for the pleasure), this wheel offers the confidence of a well-crafted tool that honours your time and creativity.
Maybe in the past, you felt frustrated with fussy setups or limited by your equipment. But with the Traditional, you’ll find yourself sinking into the meditative flow of spinning, supported by a wheel that feels like a natural extension of your hands. Its solid construction and smooth operation give you the freedom to explore textures, blends, and techniques without a struggle. It’s more than a spinning wheel, it’s your spinning companion for life.
Key Features & Benefits
- Smooth treadling for consistent, effortless spinning
- Elegant, timeless design fits beautifully into any studio or space
- Available in either single (scotch tension) or double drive to match your spinning preferences
- Robust 56cm (22") wheel provides excellent momentum and balance
- Crafted from strong New Zealand silver beech, built to last
- Wide range of compatible accessories for evolving skills
- Lacquered or natural finish to suit your aesthetic
- 1 x Ashford Traditional Spinning Wheel
- 4 x Standard Bobbins
- 1 x Lazy Kate (built-in)
- 1 x Threading Hook
- Assembly Instructions
- Finish Options: Natural or Lacquered
- Assembly: Required
- Wheel Diameter: 56cm (22")
- Orifice Size: 1cm (⅜")
- Orifice Height: 69cm (27¼")
- Bobbin Capacity: 100gm (3–4oz)
- Single Drive Ratios: 7, 9, 12, 17:1
- Double Drive Ratios: 7.5, 9.5, 13:1 (16:1 bobbin lead)
Ashford - How to spin
Learn the fundamentals of spinning with Ashford. This tutorial covers the basics to help you get started confidently on your spinning journey. Perfect for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills.
Ashford - How to ply
Discover the art of plying yarn with Ashford! This video demonstrates easy plying techniques to give your yarn strength and balance. Ideal for spinners at any level.
Kiwi Super Flyer
Take a closer look at the Kiwi Super Flyer and its capabilities. This video showcases its features and how it supports larger yarn projects with ease.
Ashford - Good Posture For Spinning
Spinning comfortably starts with good posture. In this video, Ashford shares practical tips to help you spin for longer sessions without strain or fatigue.
Ashford - Maintaining your spinning wheel
Keep your spinning wheel in great shape with these simple maintenance tips. Ashford walks you through how to care for your wheel and ensure smooth performance.
Ashford Fibre Mill - Take a tour
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Ashford Fibre Mill. See how fibres are processed, blended, and prepared for your spinning and weaving adventures.
Yes, with the addition of a jumbo flyer and bobbin, with its generous orifice size of 15mm (⅝"), it can accommodate bulkier yarns.
Absolutely, its classic design and ease of use make it ideal for beginners.
Single treadle models are traditional, but some spinners find double treadles offer more balanced and comfortable treadling. It all comes down to personal preference. If you have the opportunity we recommend trying both styles to see what you're most comfortable with.
Regular oiling of moving parts and occasional replacement of the drive band are recommended for optimal performance.
Yes, Ashford typically provides replacement parts for older models, ensuring longevity and continued use.
It is more suited for stationary use but can be disassembled for transport, and is compact enough that it may fit in a car boot or back seat.
As the flyer is on the left-hand side of the wheel, some left-handed spinners may find a wheel with a more versatile design, such as the Schacht Flat Iron, to be more comfortable. The Flat Iron allows the flyer to be positioned on either the right or left side of the spinner, offering greater flexibility. Alternatively, a castle-style wheel like the Ashford Kiwi 3 or Schacht Matchless might also be a more ergonomic choice.
The Ashford Traditional is versatile and can handle a wide range of fibers, including wool, cotton, and silk.
The Traditional is a classic saxony style of wheel with the flyer offset from the center. It also has a larger wheel and is less portable, while the Traveller is a castle style of wheel, more compact and portable.