It was the first powered, automatic, and continuous textile machine and enabled the move away from small home manufacturing towards factory production of textiles. The water frame was also the first machine that could spin cotton threads.
Industrial Revolution - Pictures From The Industrial Revolution
By Mary Bellis, About.com
Richard Arkwright patented the spinning frame or water frame that could produce stronger threads for yarns. The first models were powered by waterwheels so the device came to be first known as the water frame.
Index: Industrial Revolution - Pictures From The Industrial Revolution
- 1712 - Newcomen Steam Engine and the Industrial Revolution
- 1733 - Flying Shuttle, Automation of Textile Making & The Industrial Revolution
- 1764 - Increased Yarn & Thread Production During Industrial Revolution
- 1769 - James Watt's Improved Steam Engine Powers the Industrial Revolution
- 1769 - Spinning Frame or Water Frame
- 1779 - Spinning Mule Increased Variety in Threads & Yarns
- 1785 - Power Loom's Effect on the Women of the Industrial Revolution
- 1830 - Practical Sewing Machines & Ready Made Clothing
Explore Inventors
Must Reads
More from About.com
Lower Cholesterol
How to lower yours and eat healthy.Dog Care
Get tips on training and caring for dogs of all ages.48 Hours in Vegas
Plan a hot weekend in Sin City.Just for Grads
Celebrate the graduate in your life.
©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.