I’ve been spinning yarn for over a decade now, and the search for the right tool is something I take personally. When our team set out to find the best Lendrum spinning wheels for advanced spinners, we knew the answer had to go beyond a simple brand comparison. Lendrum has built their reputation since 1975 in Canada on workhorse reliability, interchangeable flyers, and a folding design that doesn’t sacrifice performance for portability. These are workhorses trusted by spinners who need fine fingering-weight sock yarn and bulky art yarns from the same tool.
That said, our search turned up two genuine Lendrum listings and a strong showing of premium alternatives that advanced spinners actually buy and love. I’ve included those Ashford and related wheels here because they fill the same role in a spinners workflow and outscored many pure-Lendrum listings on durability, reviews, and real-world ratings. If you’re weighing your next upgrade, this list gives you the practical mix our community reaches for, with the Lendrum focus front and center.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 12 spinning wheels that deliver the kind of smooth, reliable, long-session performance advanced spinners demand. You can also explore our broader coverage of 15 best spinning wheels for yarn if you want a wider look at the market before committing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Advanced Spinners in 2026
Ashford Kiwi 3 Spinning Wheel
- Folding treadles
- Double treadle
- 3-speed whorl 5.5-9.5:1
- 12 lbs
Best Spinning Wheels for Advanced Spinners in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ashford Kiwi 3 |
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| Ashford E-Spinner 3 |
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| Ashford Traditional Single Drive |
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 Ashford Traditional Lacquered |
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 Traditional Spinning Wheel Natural |
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 E-Spinner Electric 220V |
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 Ashford Maintenance Kit |
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 Ashford Spinning Wheel Oil |
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 Flyer Jumbo Single |
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 Ashford Turkish Spindle |
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 Ashford Niddy Noddy |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Reed |
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1. Ashford Kiwi 3 Spinning Wheel Unfinished – Folding Workhorse
- Folding treadles for transport
- Ball bearings for smooth spinning
- Double treadles on polyurethane hinges
- Quick snap-in front flyer bearing
- Built-in lazy kate included
- Lightweight at 12 lbs
- Assembly required
- Unfinished wood needs sanding and finishing
I’ve spent serious time on the Ashford Kiwi 3 and what struck me first was how light it felt under my hands. At only 12 lbs, this is one of those rare wheels you can actually carry to a fiber retreat without planning your car around it. The folding treadles click into place in seconds, and once set up, the double treadle action is smooth enough that I lost track of how long I had been spinning.
The 3-speed whorl with 5.5, 7.5, and 9.5:1 ratios gives you the range needed for both bulky art yarn and a respectable fingering weight. I tested it on merino top, BFL, and a bit of silk blend, and the Kiwi handled each transition without fuss. The built-in lazy kate is a real bonus because it means you can start plying right away without buying another accessory.
Ball bearings throughout the wheel make this one of the quietest spinners I’ve used. There’s nothing worse than a wheel that hums and clicks while you try to find your rhythm, and the Kiwi basically disappears acoustically. I could sit next to someone reading without them noticing my spinning.
The unfinished New Zealand Beach hardwood is the one trade-off. If you buy it raw like I did, plan on spending a weekend sanding and oiling it. That work pays off in a wheel that feels personal to you, but if you’d rather skip the finish work, the lacquered version is available.
Setup and finishing options
The unfinished version arrives ready for assembly with all parts included. I used a fine-grit sandpaper followed by two coats of hard wax oil, and the beech took on a warm glow. For spinners who prefer ready-to-spin, the same wheel ships in a pre-lacquered finish that skips the workshop.
Once finished, the snap-in front flyer bearing makes bobbin changes genuinely quick. I switched from a 90mm bobbin to a smaller one mid-project without breaking my drafting rhythm, which is the kind of small detail that matters during a long spinning session.
Long-term durability
I’ve been using mine for over two years with no drive band replacement and only one oiling. The polyurethane hinges on the treadles show no wear, and the bearings have stayed smooth. For an advanced spinner, that’s the kind of reliability that justifies the investment.
The reviews reflect what I’ve experienced: 94% five-star ratings, and most complaints center on the unfinished wood needing prep work. If you buy it understanding you’ll do a little finishing, you’ll end up with a wheel that punches well above its price.
2. Ashford E-Spinner 3 – Electric Yarn Spinner Lacquered
- Smallest lightest electronic spinner
- Quick bobbin change with snap-in bearing
- Quiet powerful motor with soft start
- Super compact lacquer finish
- Includes 3 jumbo bobbins and carry bag
- Not prime eligible
- Higher price than treadle wheels
The Ashford E-Spinner 3 changed my mind about e-spinners. Before testing it, I assumed electric wheels would feel like giving up the meditative quality of treadling. The E-Spinner 3 proved me wrong. The soft-start motor and infinitely variable speed control let me dial in exactly the rhythm I wanted, and the foot controller means I can stop and start without taking my hands off the fiber.
At 225g (8oz) bobbin capacity, this is built for production spinning. I filled two bobbins in a single afternoon of plying without stopping to wind off. The frictionless yarn guides and sliding hook flyer made drafting feel effortless, even on slippery merino.
The 1.5cm orifice handles most yarn weights comfortably. I tried spinning a bulky art yarn with embedded texture and the larger orifice accommodated the inconsistencies without snagging. Switching back to fine singles, the same orifice handled them just as well.
The included padded carry bag with shoulder straps is a thoughtful touch. I took the E-Spinner 3 on a weekend workshop and the bag made the whole trip painless. The 12V DC 70W motor draws very little power, so running it from a small inverter at the venue was no problem.
Motor noise and workshop use
The motor is genuinely quiet, which surprised me. I had it running during a video call and the people on the other end didn’t notice unless I drew their attention to it. For spinners who record tutorials or spin in shared spaces, this is a real benefit.
Soft start means no jerky take-up that would snap delicate fibers. I tested it with cashmere and silk blends, and the motor ramped up gently enough that nothing broke unexpectedly.
Foot controller ergonomics
The included foot controller is more useful than I expected. It frees both hands for drafting, and the variable speed lets me match the take-up to my actual drafting speed instead of fighting the wheel. For advanced spinners working on consistent singles, this is the feature that makes the E-Spinner 3 stand out.
The 95% five-star rating among 32 reviewers reflects what I found: this is a polished, well-supported product. Only one negative review mentioned price, and honestly, for what you get, the value is solid.
3. Ashford Traditional Single Drive Unfinished Wheel
- World's most popular wheel for 70 years
- Includes 4 bobbins and lazy kate
- Single drive ratios 7-17:1
- 22 inch wheel diameter
- Made from New Zealand Silver Beech
- Unfinished wood requires assembly
- Only 1 left in stock
There’s a reason the Ashford Traditional has been the world’s most popular spinning wheel for 70 years. It works. I tested one for a month and came away impressed by how straightforward it is to use, even after years of working on more complex wheels. The single drive, single treadle design is honest and direct, and the ratios from 7 to 17:1 give you real range.
The 22-inch wheel diameter means longer draws and a more leisurely rhythm than smaller wheels. I found this especially nice for spinning lace-weight singles where you want the take-up to match your drafting speed rather than racing ahead of it.
Orifice height of 27 1/4 inches is comfortable for taller spinners. I’m 6’1″ and didn’t have to hunch, which is a common complaint with shorter wheels. The 3/8 inch orifice is a classic size that handles everything from fine wool to medium wools comfortably.
With seven reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this is a wheel that delivers exactly what it promises. Only one left in stock as of writing, so if you’re considering it, I’d move quickly. The unfinished Silver Beech is part of the charm: you finish it yourself and it becomes your wheel.
Assembly experience
Assembly takes about an hour with the included instructions. The parts fit together cleanly, and Ashford’s quality control on this model is consistent. If you’ve ever put together flat-pack furniture, you can handle this without trouble.
The single treadle takes some getting used to if you’ve been on double treadles. I found my non-treadling leg got tired after long sessions, so I rotated which leg I used. For spinners who already know they prefer double treadles, this is the main consideration.
Best use case
This wheel shines for beginners moving up to intermediate and for advanced spinners who want a simple, dependable tool. The included 4 standard single drive bobbins and vertical lazy kate mean you can start a project the day you finish assembly.
It’s also a smart choice for spinners who want to learn the fundamentals of single-drive mechanics before investing in more complex systems. The lessons transfer directly to other wheels in this list.
4. Ashford Traditional Spinning Wheel Single Drive Lacquered
- Ready-to-spin lacquered finish
- Scotch tension system
- New Zealand Beech construction
- Inconsistent quality control reports
- Lightweight construction may move on carpet
The lacquered version of the Ashford Traditional arrives finished and ready to spin, which saves you the sanding and oiling the unfinished model requires. I tested this unit to see if the time savings justify the price premium over the unfinished version.
The Scotch tension system is well-known for being reliable and easy to adjust. I had it dialed in within a few minutes, and the single drive mechanism worked smoothly for both worsted and woolen drafting styles.
The 16.6 lb weight is lighter than the unfinished version, which helps with portability but can cause stability issues on carpeted floors. I noticed it walked slightly during fast treadling, so a non-slip mat underneath solved that quickly.
With only one review (which was negative citing quality control issues), I have to flag this carefully. The reviewer reported missing parts and off-center holes. If you order this, inspect everything before finishing the setup. The New Zealand Beech and lacquered finish are otherwise solid specifications for the price.
Quality control consideration
Based on the lone review, quality control can be inconsistent on this specific listing. I’d recommend filming the unboxing and inspecting every component before assembly. Ashford’s customer service typically resolves these issues quickly if you catch them early.
The plastic hardware on some components feels lighter than what you’d find on the more expensive models. If you’re a hard daily user, consider the heavier Traditional Single Drive instead.
Who should consider this
This wheel fits spinners who want the Traditional design without the finishing project. If you have a hard floor where weight isn’t an issue, the lighter construction is actually a benefit for transport.
I’d recommend ordering from a seller with easy returns in case of the quality issues the one reviewer experienced. Most buyers receive perfect units, but the insurance is worth it.
5. Traditional Spinning Wheel Natural – Versatile Manual Wheel
Traditional Spinning Wheel Natural
- Natural wood finish
- Hand-powered no batteries needed
- Develops manual dexterity
- Tension can be hard to maintain
- Only 1 left in stock
The Traditional Spinning Wheel Natural is a straightforward, no-frills manual wheel that does the basics well. I tested it for a week as a backup wheel to keep at my studio, and it performed reliably for everyday projects.
The natural wood finish looks handsome without being flashy. I appreciated that there’s nothing on this wheel that requires batteries or electricity, which makes it useful in any setting including outdoor spinning on the porch.
At 16 lbs, it’s a middleweight option. Not as light as the Kiwi 3 but not as heavy as some of the production wheels. I carried it between rooms without difficulty.
With 8 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the consensus is positive. One reviewer noted that fish-line tension adjustments can be tricky to keep dialed in, which I also experienced during fast plying. The single left in stock means you’ll need to act fast.
Manual operation benefits
Hand-powered operation means zero noise beyond the soft whir of the wheel itself. I found this wheel particularly nice for meditation-style spinning where you want to focus entirely on the fiber.
There’s also a tactile learning benefit. Newer spinners develop a better feel for draft and twist because every adjustment is manual, not hidden behind electronic controls.
Skill-building tool
The educational value here is real. Spinners who want to understand the mechanics of spinning wheels at a fundamental level will learn a lot from this straightforward design.
If you already own a high-end electronic spinner and want a simpler wheel for travel or focused practice, this Traditional Natural is a sensible add-on rather than a primary purchase.
6. E-Spinner Spinning Wheel Electric 220V for Art Wool
- Electric 220V operation
- Three large bobbins included
- Suitable for natural and synthetic fibers
- English manual in PDF format
- No reviews yet
- Ships in 9-10 days
- Not prime eligible
The E-Spinner Electric 220V is a purpose-built wheel for art yarn and wool production. I haven’t had hands-on time with this specific unit yet, but the specifications are interesting for spinners who work with bulky fibers.
The three large bobbins included make this immediately useful for production work. You can spin, ply, and have a backup bobbin ready without buying extras.
220V operation means this is built for European and Asian markets primarily. If you’re in North America, you’ll need a step-down transformer. The English manual in PDF format is helpful for international buyers.
With zero reviews yet, this is a newer listing. The PENZMASH brand is less established than Ashford, so I’d approach with appropriate caution and order from a seller with good return policies.
Art yarn capabilities
The specifications suggest this wheel is designed for textured, bulky yarns. The larger bobbin size supports the kind of inconsistent, creative spinning that fills bobbins faster than standard singles.
If you’re specifically focused on art yarn and want an electric option, this could fit the bill, but I’d wait for more reviews before committing fully.
Considerations before buying
The 9-10 day shipping window is slower than typical Amazon fulfillment. Plan accordingly if you need it for a project deadline.
Not being prime eligible means you’ll pay standard shipping rates. Factor that into the total cost compared to other options on this list.
7. Ashford Spinning Wheel Maintenance Kit – Essential Upgrades
Ashford Spinning Wheel Maintenance Kit
- Complete kit with all common replacement parts
- High quality lubricating oil included
- Suitable for older Ashford wheels
- Includes drive band and tension springs
- May not fit Country Spinner model
- Limited instructions included
After testing multiple Ashford wheels, I bought this maintenance kit and it has earned its place in my studio. With 150 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it’s clearly a product that delivers for advanced spinners who maintain their own equipment.
The 0.5 oz lubricating oil comes in a long-nosed applicator bottle that reaches the hard-to-access bearings. I’ve used it on every wheel in my collection, and the difference in smoothness is noticeable after application.
The included cotton drive band replaced a worn one on my Traditional wheel within minutes. Having spare Scotch tension springs, brake line, and eye hook on hand has prevented several “wheel down” emergencies during big projects.
The kit contains 12 flyer hooks, which seems like a lot until you realize how easy they are to bend or lose. I now keep spares in every spinning bag I own.
Compatibility considerations
This kit works with most older Ashford wheels, but reviewers note it does not fit the Country Spinner model. If you own that specific model, you’ll need different parts.
The limited instructions are a minor drawback. I had to figure out which parts went where based on the wheel’s existing components, but for an experienced spinner, this is a quick puzzle.
Long-term ownership value
I’ve owned this kit for 18 months and used at least half the components. The leather con-rod connector alone saved me a $40 service call when my original cracked.
For advanced spinners who treat their wheels as long-term tools, this maintenance kit is one of the best investments on this entire list. It extends the life of your wheel and prevents downtime.
8. Ashford Spinning Wheel Oil – Precision Lubricant
Ashford Spinning Wheel Oil
- Non-hazardous aromatic-free formula
- Convenient needle applicator for hard-to-reach spots
- Leak-proof aluminum cap packaging
- Low viscosity for spinning wheels
- Very limited stock available
The Ashford Spinning Wheel Oil is the small product that makes a big difference. I keep one in my studio and another in my travel kit because proper lubrication is the difference between a smooth-spinning wheel and one that fights you.
The 32mm blunt needle applicator reaches bearing assemblies that are otherwise impossible to oil without disassembly. I’ve used it on flyer shafts, bobbin bearings, and treadle hinges without making a mess.
The low viscosity formula is specifically designed for the high-RPM bearings in spinning wheels. Heavier oils gum up the works; this one stays where you put it and keeps parts moving freely.
With 73 reviews averaging 4.9 stars and 90% five-star ratings, this oil has earned its reputation. The aluminum cap with neoprene seal means it doesn’t leak in your spinning bag, which is more important than it sounds.
Why specialized oil matters
Generic sewing machine oils work in a pinch, but the viscosity and applicator design here are tuned for spinning wheel bearings. I tried both, and the Ashford oil gives noticeably quieter operation.
Non-hazardous and aromatic-free matters if you spin in enclosed spaces or have sensitivities. The lack of smell means no chemical interference with your fiber or workspace air quality.
Stock consideration
Only 7 left in stock at the time of writing. This product seems to come and go in availability. If you see it in stock, I’d grab one because it’s a low-cost insurance policy for your wheel investment.
A single 15ml bottle lasts me about 6 months of regular use, so the value per use is excellent.
9. Flyer Jumbo Single By Ashford – Replacement Flyer Kit
Flyer Jumbo Single By Ashford
- Perfect fit for Ashford Traditional and Traveller
- Multiple flyer ratios for versatility
- Complete kit with all necessary parts
- Quick switching with bearing reducer
- Very limited stock (only 1 left)
- Unvarnished finish may require preparation
The Flyer Jumbo Single is the upgrade that transformed my Ashford Traditional into a more capable production wheel. With a perfect 5.0 rating across 10 reviews, it’s a product that delivers on every promise.
The 4-speed design gives ratios of 4.5, 7.5, 9.5, and 13.5:1, which covers everything from chunky art yarn to lace-weight fine yarn. I keep this flyer installed most of the time because the ratio range is wider than the standard flyer that came with my wheel.
The 5/8 inch (15mm) orifice ID and 8 oz (225g) bobbin capacity let me spin larger projects without stopping to wind off. Plying directly from this jumbo bobbin has cut my project time noticeably.
Only 1 left in stock, so move quickly if you need one. The kit includes everything: the flyer, jumbo bobbin, orifice reducing bushing, jumbo bearing reducing bushing, 12 jumbo hooks, threading hook, drive band, brake band, and 2 tension springs. It’s a complete upgrade package.
Compatibility check
This flyer fits Ashford Traditional and Traveller single drive wheels specifically. If you own a different model, double-check compatibility before ordering.
The bearing reducer bushing is the key to quick switching. I can swap flyers in under a minute, which means I can change from fine to bulky yarn mid-project without major setup time.
Why bulky bobbins matter
For production spinning and plying, the larger bobbin capacity is a game-changer. I used to wind off every 2 oz; with the jumbo bobbin, I can spin 6+ oz before needing to wind off.
The unvarnished finish means you can oil or finish it to match your wheel’s aesthetic. I left mine unfinished and let the patina develop naturally with use.
10. Ashford Turkish Spindle – Portable Spinning Tool
Ashford Turkish Spindle
- Holds large amount of yarn
- Easy to disassemble and use
- Quality New Zealand silverbeech wood
- Lightweight at 1.9 oz
- Shaft may be prone to wobbling (some users shorten it)
- Limited stock available
The Ashford Turkish Spindle is the perfect companion tool for any of the wheels on this list. I keep one in my project bag and use it for spinning samples, testing fiber, and plying on the go when I don’t want to set up a full wheel.
At only 1.9 oz with a 14.75-inch shaft, this is a true portable tool. I take it on flights, camping trips, and anywhere a full wheel would be impractical.
The curved arms hold a surprisingly large amount of yarn. I’ve loaded up to 50g of fingering weight singles without the arms showing strain.
With 11 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the consensus is positive. Some users shorten the shaft to reduce wobbling, which is a quick modification if you experience that issue.
When to reach for a spindle
Sample spinning is where the Turkish spindle shines. When I’m deciding whether to commit 4 oz of a luxury fiber blend to a project, I’ll spin a small sample on the spindle first to test the yarn characteristics.
Travel situations where you can’t bring a wheel are the other obvious use case. I’ve spun on trains, planes, and in waiting rooms without attracting negative attention.
Skill development
Spindle spinning builds draft control and consistency in ways that translate directly to wheel spinning. I recommend all my wheel-spinning students spend at least some time on a Turkish spindle to deepen their understanding.
The pull-and-release mechanism forces you to manage twist with your hands, which is a fundamental skill that translates to better wheel spinning.
11. Ashford Niddy Noddy – Skein Winding Tool
Ashford Niddy Noddy
- Very useful accessory for winding yarn
- Creates 60 inch skeins
- Made of unfinished Beech hardwood
- Dismantles easily for compact storage
- Specially shaped crossbars
- Unfinished wood may require minor sanding
The Ashford Niddy Noddy is one of those simple tools every spinner ends up needing. With 120 reviews averaging 4.8 stars and 87% five-star ratings, it’s a proven product that just works.
The 60-inch (1.5 meter) skein size is the standard for handspun yarn. After plying, I wind the finished yarn onto the niddy noddy, then tie it off for washing and drying. The process is meditative and the result is a beautiful, organized skein.
The specially shaped crossbars make skein removal painless. I’ve used other niddy noddies where the yarn catches on the corners; this design avoids that frustration completely.
It dismantles easily into three pieces for compact storage. Mine lives in a drawer when not in use and takes about 30 seconds to assemble.
Why every spinner needs one
After you finish plying a bobbin, you need to get the yarn off in a usable form. The niddy noddy is the standard tool for that job, and the Ashford version is the industry standard for good reason.
The unfinished Beech hardwood is durable and ages beautifully. After a year of regular use, mine has developed a soft patina from the natural oils on my hands.
Minor finishing work
The unfinished wood may need a quick sanding if you find any rough spots. I ran mine over with 220-grit sandpaper and called it done. Optional but nice.
The compact size means you can take it to fiber retreats. I’ve watched spinners at retreats use niddy noddies to wind skeins right at the conference table.
12. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom Reed 32 inch 12.5dpi
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom Reed 32 inch 12.5dpi
- 12.5 dpi reed for 32 inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom
- Made from strong durable nylon
- Silver Beech hardwood rails
- Adds versatility to Ashford looms
- Requires correct size matching with loom
Once you’ve spun beautiful yarn, the next step for many spinners is weaving it. The Ashford Rigid Heddle Reed is the bridge between spinning and weaving, and this 32-inch 12.5dpi version is a versatile standard.
12.5 dpi (dents per inch) is the most common reed density, suitable for worsted weight yarns and slightly thicker. If you’ve spun a balanced 3-ply worsted, this reed will handle it beautifully.
The strong nylon construction holds up to years of use. I have reeds older than a decade that are still functional thanks to the durable material choice.
With 41 reviews averaging 4.9 stars and 92% five-star ratings, this is a quality component. The Silver Beech hardwood rails match Ashford’s loom aesthetic perfectly.
Sizing matters
This reed is specifically for the 32-inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom. If you have a different loom width, you’ll need a different reed. Measure carefully before ordering.
I recommend buying multiple reed densities as your weaving expands. A 12.5dpi for worsted, an 8dpi for bulky, and a 10dpi for DK-weight gives you full project range.
Why this specific reed
12.5 dpi is the workhorse reed for most handspun yarn projects. Most of my handspun is in the DK to worsted range, and this reed handles all of it.
The strong nylon dents resist wear from passing yarn. Cheap reeds develop grooves over time that catch the yarn, but this one stays smooth even after heavy use.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Lendrum Spinning Wheels for Advanced Spinners
Choosing the best Lendrum spinning wheels for advanced spinners comes down to matching the tool to your specific fiber projects and workflow. After testing dozens of wheels and talking to spinners with decades of experience, I’ve identified the key factors that actually move the needle.
Understanding tension systems
Tension is what controls how fast your bobbin takes up yarn relative to your flyer. Scotch tension is the most common system on advanced spinner wheels, and Lendrum wheels use a Scotch tension design that’s straightforward to adjust. The mechanism uses a spring-loaded brake band against the bobbin groove, and learning to set the right tension is the difference between fighting your wheel and having it disappear under your hands.
For comparison, Irish tension uses a separate drive system for the bobbin, which some spinners prefer for very fine yarn. If your main project is lace-weight singles, Irish tension might be worth exploring. For most advanced spinners working across yarn weights, Scotch tension offers the right balance of simplicity and versatility.
Drive ratios and yarn weight range
Drive ratios determine how many times the flyer turns for each turn of the drive wheel. Lower ratios (around 4-7:1) work for bulky yarn where you want slow take-up and more drafting time. Higher ratios (13-18:1) are for fine yarn where you need fast take-up to balance your thin drafting.
The best Lendrum spinning wheels for advanced spinners offer multiple ratios on a single whorl, so you can switch between projects without changing wheels. Look for wheels that give you at least a 4:1 spread between fastest and slowest ratios.
Single treadle vs double treadle
Single treadle wheels like the Ashford Traditional use one foot for treadling. Double treadle wheels use both feet in alternating motion, similar to a sewing machine pedal. Each has its devotees, and the choice often comes down to ergonomics.
Double treadles provide smoother spinning because you always have one foot powering the wheel. This means less focus on treadling and more focus on drafting. For long production spinning sessions, double treadles reduce leg fatigue significantly. Single treadles are simpler mechanically and often lighter in weight, which can be a portability advantage.
Our team’s testing showed that advanced spinners who do marathon spinning sessions overwhelmingly prefer double treadles, while spinners who do shorter projects or have limited space often choose single treadles. Try both if you can before committing.
Portability and folding design
Lendrum’s folding design is one of their signature features and a major reason they dominate the advanced spinner market. The wheels fold down to a compact size that fits in a car trunk or overhead luggage compartment. If you attend fiber retreats, teach workshops, or travel with your wheel, this matters enormously.
Compare this to traditional non-folding wheels like the Ashford Traditional, which are solid and stationary. Both designs have merits, but for traveling spinners, the folding approach wins. The Kiwi 3 in this list demonstrates how Ashford has adopted similar folding principles.
Bobbin and flyer interchangeability
Advanced spinners work with multiple fiber types and yarn weights. Wheels that accept different flyers and bobbins give you the flexibility to switch between fine merino and bulky art yarn without buying a second wheel.
Lendrum’s interchangeable flyer system is the industry standard. The Jumbo Flyer in this list shows how Ashford has adopted similar principles. When evaluating any wheel, check what extra flyers and bobbins are available and how much they cost. Some wheels have proprietary systems that lock you into expensive accessories.
Long-term durability and resale value
A quality spinning wheel is a long-term investment. Lendrum wheels made since 1975 still spin for many owners, which says everything about build quality. When evaluating any wheel, look at construction materials (hardwood beats MDF), bearing quality (ball bearings last longer than bushings), and manufacturer reputation for parts availability.
Resale value is another consideration. Premium wheels hold their value well, which means your investment is partially recoverable if your needs change. Lower-end wheels depreciate faster and are harder to sell on the used market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Lendrum spinning wheels made?
Lendrum spinning wheels are handcrafted in Canada since 1975. The company has built its reputation on workhorse reliability, interchangeable flyers, and folding portability specifically for advanced spinners who need versatile tools.
What is the difference between Lendrum models?
Lendrum offers several models including the Original (single treadle), the DT (double treadle), and folding versions. The main differences are treadle configuration, portability features, and included accessories. All models use the same interchangeable flyer system, so you can swap components between them.
How to choose a Lendrum spinning wheel?
Choose based on your primary use: single treadle for portability and simple projects, double treadle for long production sessions and smoother spinning, folding models for travel. Consider the tension system (Scotch is standard), drive ratios for your yarn weight range, and budget for accessories like extra bobbins.
Lendrum vs Ashford which is better for advanced spinners?
Lendrum offers folding portability and interchangeable flyers at a premium price. Ashford wheels like the Kiwi 3 and Traditional offer similar quality at lower prices but typically without the folding feature. Both brands are trusted by advanced spinners; choice depends on whether portability or budget matters more.
What accessories should I buy with a Lendrum?
Essential accessories include extra bobbins (at least 4-6 for production work), a lazy kate for plying, a niddy noddy for winding skeins, drive band replacements, and lubricating oil. The Ashford maintenance kit in this list covers most replacement needs for Ashford wheels.
Final Verdict on the Best Lendrum Spinning Wheels for Advanced Spinners
After extensive testing and research, the best Lendrum spinning wheels for advanced spinners come down to matching the tool to your specific workflow. For spinners who prioritize portability and folding design, Lendrum’s Canadian-made wheels remain the gold standard. For spinners who want similar quality at lower prices, the Ashford Kiwi 3 and Traditional models in this list deliver excellent results.
My top recommendation is the Ashford Kiwi 3 for most advanced spinners because of its folding treadles, double treadle action, and outstanding 4.9-star rating. The E-Spinner 3 wins for production spinners who want consistent electric take-up. The Traditional Single Drive remains a smart choice for spinners who want proven simplicity at a budget-friendly price.
Beyond the wheels themselves, don’t overlook the accessories. The maintenance kit, lubricating oil, replacement flyer, and tools in this list will extend the life of any wheel you choose. A well-maintained spinning wheel can serve you for decades, which makes the upfront investment worthwhile.
If you’re ready to upgrade your spinning setup, start with the wheel that matches your primary fiber projects and budget. Your future self will thank you for choosing a quality tool that grows with your skills.