American Tension System

Choosing the right spinning wheel often comes down to how it handles tension - the mechanism that controls yarn uptake onto the bobbin. Traditional spinning wheels use either Scotch tension or Irish tension, both of which rely on strings, springs, and additional parts to regulate pull. At SpinPerfect, we’ve taken a different approach. Our ICON e-spinners use the same state-of-the-art tension system pioneered in SpinOlution wheels, designed for efficiency, simplicity, and unmatched control.

Traditional Tension Systems

• Scotch Tension
  In Scotch tension, a light brake band (a string or cord) wraps around the bobbin and attaches to a spring. As you adjust the spring, you increase or decrease the braking force on the bobbin, which changes how quickly yarn is taken up. This system is precise but can feel delicate, and bands or springs often wear out with heavy use.
• Irish Tension
  Irish tension works the opposite way. The brake band and spring apply pressure to the flyer instead of the bobbin. This creates a much stronger uptake, often preferred for bulky or art yarns. While it provides power, it can sometimes feel less nuanced and harder to fine-tune for finer yarns.

Introducing: American Tension by SpinPerfect

SpinPerfect wheels eliminate the extra cords and springs by applying direct friction to the flyer rod itself. This modern American-made tension system is both efficient and intuitive, giving you smooth, consistent control across all yarn weights. Instead of fussing with brake bands or replacing worn-out springs, you can simply adjust the friction to meet your spinning needs.

NEW: SpinPerfect Tension Fan

In addition to direct flyer-rod friction, the 8 ounce, 16 ounce, 32 ounce, and 64 ounce SpinPerfect ICON wheels feature an exclusive Tension Fan system - a unique pulley and drive band design that automatically applies the perfect amount of tension. This innovation is ideal for spinning all weights of traditional yarns without the need for constant adjustments. Just start spinning and let the Tension Fan deliver balanced, effortless uptake every time.

The result? An American-designed tension system that combines the precision of Scotch tension with the strength of Irish tension, without the drawbacks of either. Whether you’re spinning laceweight singles or bulky art yarn,  SpinPerfect tension adapts seamlessly, making it one of the most user-friendly and reliable options available today.