Spinning Wheel vs Drop Spindle-Which to Choose?
Spinning Wheel vs. Drop Spindle: Which is right for you
Spinning wheels are a staple of the fiber arts, but when it comes to choosing one, you'll likely find yourself overwhelmed. There are so many different types!
Drop spindles vs floor spinning wheels: which one is right for you?
In this blog post, we'll cover the pros and cons of both options so that you can make an informed decision.
I learned on a drop spindle like many people and while it’s great to learn the basics of twist and drafting it can actually be easier I think to perfect your spin on a studio wheel. This frees up both of your hand and lets you spin continuously vs having to stop and start. However once you get the hang of spinning drop spindles can be a fun option for portability and just experiencing the craft in a different way.
Drop Spindles
Drop spindles are portable, inexpensive, and easy to use—a great choice if you just want to get started with spinning. They are also simple in design, comprised of only a few parts: the shaft (which is usually made from wood), the whorl (a weight that keeps the thread taut), and the hook (where you attach your yarn). Drop spindles are ideal for beginners because they are easy to learn how to use and can be used anywhere—at home or on-the-go!
Floor Spinning Wheels
Floor spinning wheels offer more versatility than drop spindles. They come in different sizes and styles, allowing you to tailor them based on your needs. Floor spinning wheels are typically larger than drop spindles and have many more parts: the wheel itself; a flyer (which holds bobbins); treadle (for foot power); and gears and tension mechanism (to increase/decrease tension).
Let me share a little tale from my own journey. Starting on a drop spindle was like being handed a magic wand. There I was, holding this simple, yet profoundly ancient tool, ready to conjure threads out of fluffy clouds of fiber. It's perfect for dipping your toes (or should I say, your fingers?) into the enchanting waters of spinning. It's all about the basics—twist, tension, and the dance of drafting fibers. The beauty of a drop spindle? Its simplicity. A staff, a whorl, and a hook—your portable gateway to creating anywhere your heart desires.
And then, the spinning wheel. Imagine stepping into a studio where your wheel awaits, ready to transform fiber into yarn with the grace of a skilled dancer. Switching to a spinning wheel felt like embracing a powerful ally. It's like it says, "Let me carry some of that weight, darling. You focus on the art." You'll find your rhythm with the treadle, feeling the connection from foot to fiber, as your hands are free to guide and shape. The spinning wheel offers a world of possibilities, from delicate threads to chunky, textured masterpieces.
Drop Spindles: The Traveling Minstrels of the Spinning World
Think of drop spindles as your trusty companions for spontaneous creativity. They’re affordable, straightforward, and oh, so mobile. Whether you're catching a moment of peace at home or spinning tales on the go, the drop spindle is your ever-ready friend. Ideal for beginners, it's a gentle introduction to the spellbinding process of turning fiber into yarn.
Floor Spinning Wheels: The Grand Orchestra
Now, for the floor spinning wheels—these beauties are like the experienced conductors of an orchestra, offering versatility and depth. They may be larger and come with a symphony of parts (from the wheel that weaves the rhythm, to the flyer that holds your growing skein), but they open up a world where your creativity can truly soar. Each piece, from treadle to tension mechanism, works in harmony, allowing you to explore the vast landscapes of spinning with grace and power.
So, Which to Choose?
The choice between a drop spindle and a spinning wheel is a tough decision and most people end up with both eventually. Where do you see yourself in the tapestry of your creative explorations? If the thought of weaving moments of creation into the nooks and crannies of a bustling life entices you, then the drop spindle is calling your name. Or, if you dream of hours spent in the flow of spinning, with the wheel as your co-creator, then the spinning wheel awaits your touch.
Whatever path you choose, remember, this is your adventure So go ahead, pick up that spindle or step up to the wheel. The world of spinning is rich with possibility, and it's all yours to explore.
Step-by-Step Dream Yarn ( 6 module Course) Your monthly guide to spinning success—from fiber prep to finished skein. Whether you're brand new or leveling up, this course breaks it down into bite-sized lessons, pro tips, and video walkthroughs that grow with you. Learn the exact steps to create dreamy, balanced, custom yarns—with confidence and style.
After much request I’ve made an online version of my local drop spindle and intro to spinning workshop. This is 12 video online workshop designed to take the student from having never held fiber or a spindle all the way through 2 plying your final yarn. There are also 4 bonus videos covering common troubleshooting that has been covered in local classes as well as how to set your yarn after it’s spun, and how to chain ply on a drop spindle for beginners.
The Yarn Skein Collective An exclusive, ever-growing vault of fiber arts guides, tips, and resources—curated from years of limited-time offers, workshops, and course bonuses. Now permanently housed on-site, free to access. Sign up to explore and get notified when fresh content drops. It’s for fiber besties who want to stay inspired and in the loop.
Discover the SpinOlution Bullfrog Spinning Wheel – a compact and durable wheel perfect for spinners on the go. With a foldable design and smooth, comfortable treadling, the Bullfrog is ideal for spinning all yarn types from fine to bulky. Shop now at Feral Scene!
Meet the SpinOlution Bullfrog, a 16-ounce spinning wheel designed for spinners who want both power and portability. Lightweight and easy to carry, the Bullfrog folds to the side for simple transport—perfect for fiber festivals, classes, or just spinning outside on a nice day. Even with its compact size, it delivers smooth performance and a wide range of speeds, thanks to precision engineering and multiple bearings.
Built from durable Baltic birch, the Bullfrog is sturdy, easy to adjust, and great for spinning a variety of fibers. It comes with a 16-ounce flyer that can also use 8-ounce bobbins, giving you options for both singles and plying. The unique treadle design has a deeper, more powerful motion that many art yarn spinners love. Whether you're at home or on the go, the Bullfrog offers the flexibility and performance to keep up with your creativity.
SpinOlution wheels are made from high-quality Baltic birch plywood. Please note that occasional knots or patches may appear in the wood—these are natural characteristics from the wood manufacturer and are not within SpinOlution’s control. While we do our best to select the finest materials, these cosmetic variations are a normal part of working with real wood and do not affect the performance or durability of the wheel.
The product can differ slightly from shown photos, since we try to improve our products continuously.
Seriously I’m pretty obsessed with this wheel, It’s everything I love about the Pollywog but with a larger drive wheel and huge bobbins.
I love that it has the built in lazy kate and the folding neck works perfect.
More official pictures to come! I absolutely love this wheel. It’s ready to order! feel free to contact me with any questions.
Please be advised that shipping time is 4 - 6 weeks ( sometimes earlier) to allow for them to be custom made
Also due to Spinolution being they're own company any of my coupons and sales to not extend to the Spinolution products.
Layaway is available please email me and we'll set up something that will work for you
erin@feralscene.com
A robust wheel designed for consistency and durability.
Bullfrog with 8 oz flyer + 3 bobbins – $995
Bullfrog with 16 oz flyer + three 16 oz bobbins – $995
Bullfrog with 16 oz flyer + two 8 oz & one 16 oz bobbin – $995
The Bullfrog comes equipped with a 16 oz flyer and three matching bobbins, with compatibility for 8 oz bobbins as well. Spin fine to bulky yarns with ease and enjoy a variety of speed ratios: 1:4.5, 1:6, 1:8, 1:12, 1:18.
Purchasing and Shipping Details:
Bullfrog Spinning Wheel Pricing: $1035
Includes 3 bobbins
Accessories available at additional cost
Features:
New treadle design with deeper motion
Folds for easy transport with carrying handle
16 oz flyer led with 5 speeds
Can accommodate 1 x 16 oz bobbin and 2 x 8 oz bobbins
Size: 28 inches high, 11 inches deep
Weight: 14+ pounds
Material: Baltic Birch with lacquer finish
Open hook orifice and magnetic bobbins for convenience
Made in the USA
Experience the versatility and ergonomic design of the Bullfrog Spinning Wheel. Your spinning journey elevates to new heights with this sturdy, silent, and beautifully constructed wheel. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to see more official pictures soon – we're excited to help you bring your spinning visions to life.
Looking to buy a SpinOlution spinning wheel with confidence and support? As an official SpinOlution dealer based in the USA, I specialize in helping fiber artists—from total beginners to advanced spinners—find the perfect match. Whether you're drawn to the Monarch for large skeins, the Pollywog for starting out, or the Echo for versatility, you can shop all the top SpinOlution wheels right here with personalized insight, fair pricing, and fast shipping. This page exists to help you not just browse, but buy the right SpinOlution wheel for your needs, with expert guidance you won’t find on big-box sites.
