Choosing the Right Ashford Spinning Wheel

For more than 90 years, Ashford Handicrafts has been producing spinning wheels trusted by fibre artists around the world. From classic treadle wheels to modern electric spinners, Ashford offers a wheel to suit every spinner's style, experience level, and spinning goals.

Traditional & Classic Wheels

The Traditional

The Traditional is Ashford's most iconic and best-selling spinning wheel. Featuring a large drive wheel and timeless design, it delivers smooth treadling and versatility for a wide range of spinning projects. Available in both single drive (Scotch tension) and double drive options, it remains a favourite for beginners and experienced spinners alike.

The Elizabeth

A beautiful castle-style wheel with a large 30-inch drive wheel, the Elizabeth combines elegant design with effortless treadling. Its larger wheel creates a smooth spinning rhythm that many experienced spinners appreciate, making it ideal for long spinning sessions.

Portable & Folding Wheels

The Kiwi 3

One of Ashford's most popular beginner wheels, the Kiwi 3 is designed with ease of use in mind. It features folding treadles, a built-in lazy kate, and a compact footprint. Lightweight and affordable, it is an excellent choice for new spinners.

The Traveller 3

The Traveller 3 offers a compact castle-wheel design that fits comfortably into smaller spaces while still providing excellent spinning performance. Available in either single or double drive, it is a versatile wheel suitable for a wide range of yarns.

The Joy 2

Designed specifically for portability, the Joy 2 folds completely flat for travel and storage. Available in single or double treadle versions, it is a favourite among spinners who attend fibre festivals, workshops, and spinning groups.

Specialty Wheels

Country Spinner 2

If your passion is creating bulky yarns, textured art yarns, or spinning large quantities of fibre, the Country Spinner 2 is purpose-built for the job. Its extra-large orifice and slower spinning ratios make it ideal for thick singles and bulky plying.

Electric Spinners

e-Spinner 3

The e-Spinner 3 provides all the functionality of a spinning wheel without treadling. Lightweight, portable, and quiet, it allows spinners to focus entirely on fibre management and drafting.

Jumbo e-Spinner

For those spinning large quantities of yarn or creating bulky art yarns, the Jumbo e-Spinner offers massive bobbin capacity and powerful performance in a compact electric format.

Which Ashford Wheel Is Right for You?

Beginners

• Kiwi 3
• Traditional

Small Spaces

• Traveller 3
• Joy 2
• e-Spinner 3

Travel & Workshops

• Joy 2
• e-Spinner 3

Fine & Laceweight Yarns

• Traditional
• Traveller 3
• Elizabeth

Art Yarns & Bulky Yarns

• Country Spinner 2
• Jumbo e-Spinner

Experienced Spinners

• Elizabeth
• Traditional
• Traveller 3

Every Ashford wheel offers exceptional craftsmanship and versatility, but the best choice depends on your spinning goals, available space, and preferred spinning style.

Need Help Choosing?

Ask yourself:

• What type of yarn do you want to spin — laceweight, everyday knitting yarns, or bulky art yarns?
• Do you need a wheel that travels easily, or will it remain set up at home?
• Are you new to spinning, or do you already have spinning experience?

Answering these questions will help narrow down the Ashford wheel that will bring you years of spinning enjoyment.

Shop Ashford at Grumpy Ginger Yarn Co.

Grumpy Ginger Yarn Co. proudly stocks the complete range of Ashford spinning wheels, e-Spinners, looms, and accessories. Whether you're purchasing your very first wheel or upgrading your spinning studio, our team can help you find the perfect Ashford product to suit your fibre journey.

Visit us in-store or online to explore the full Ashford collection and start creating beautiful handspun yarn today.

Information Source: Ashford Wheels and Looms.