Beginner Hints

Start on the center ratio.

If it adds too much twist, move to a larger ratio; if it adds too little, move to a smaller ratio. On the Bee line, begin with the lower bands in the mid-ratio set. After each session, move the drive band to the smallest ratio to allow it to "recover" and maintain its elasticity for future use at higher ratios.

Ensure your yarn comes from the center of the orifice hook in a straight, horizontal line.

A slight angle is fine, but avoid a 45-degree angle. If needed, switch to a tube orifice bar if your spinning style favors one side.

When spinning clockwise, use the right-side flyer pegs, and for plying counter-clockwise, use the left-side pegs.

Change pegs as the yarn fills to create even layers and maximize bobbin capacity. Ensure the yarn is outside the last peg before the orifice hook to prevent rubbing against the bobbin edge.

Ensure your chair allows your feet to stay flat on the floor, with heels grounded while treadling.

Apply even pressure with both feet, pressing one down at a time to turn the drive wheel and twist fiber into yarn. Avoid stomping or standing on the treadles. For the Queen Bee, King Bee, or Worker Bee, start slowly and work with the slight pause in the treadle motion. Fully press one treadle before moving to the other to maintain a smooth cadence. With practice, your rhythm will adapt.

If your drive band pops off, ensure you're using a functional ratio

On the Bees, referring to the Bee Ratio Map. For the Firefly, use the middle Golden Whorl, and if the band pops off, move it to a larger groove or check the motor alignment if it got dislodged during shipping. Increase speed slowly to prevent slippage. Store the drive band in the highest ratio groove to prevent stretching. New bands can be purchased from your dealer or hello@spinolution.com

Routine maintenance may be needed if you hear noise from the tension block.

To fix it, rotate the block 180 degrees or replace the felt. To replace the felt, scrape off the old felt, apply rubber cement, attach new felt, and let it dry before reinserting the block into the head with the aligned tension hardware.

Ensure the flyer rod has the magnet attached

If it's missing, check your bobbins and reattach it with super glue. If lost, replacement magnets are available. Confirm the bobbin is secured to the magnet and the orifice bar is properly fastened to the flyer arms to prevent rattling. Also, fill the bobbin evenly to avoid temporary rattles.