8 Best Weaving Looms (August 2026) Quality Reviews

When I first tried weaving five years ago, I bought a tiny potholder loom for $20 and warped it with my daughter on a Saturday afternoon. By Sunday night I had ordered a 15-inch rigid heddle loom. That small kit pulled me into a craft that has since taken over our guest room. If you are reading this, you are probably standing at the same starting line I was, wondering which of the best weaving looms is actually worth your money.

Here is the honest truth after testing dozens of looms across our team of six weavers: the best weaving loom for you depends on what you want to make. Frame looms shine for tapestry and wall hangings. Rigid heddle looms make scarves, dish towels, and yardage. Table looms bridge the gap. Floor looms handle complex multi-shaft patterns. Prices range from $19 potholder kits to $3,300 floor looms, so there is something for every budget and skill level.

I have spent the last three months comparing eight looms across these categories, warping each one, weaving a test project, and documenting what worked and what got in the way. This guide covers my favorites, the ones I would buy today, and the ones I would skip.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Weaving Looms (August 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch

Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • 15 inch weaving width
  • High quality maple
  • Compact rigid heddle
  • Includes 8-Dent reed
BUDGET PICK
Harrisville Potholder Pro 10 inch Kit

Harrisville Potholder Pro 10 inch Kit

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • 10 inch metal loom
  • Complete kit with cotton loops
  • Large 8x8 potholders
  • Ages 8 and up
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Weaving Looms in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Harrisville Friendly Loom 7 inch Potholder KitHarrisville Friendly Loom 7 inch Potholder Kit
  • Sturdy metal 7x7 inch
  • Complete kit
  • Ages 6 and up
Check Latest Price
Harrisville Potholder Pro 10 inch KitHarrisville Potholder Pro 10 inch Kit
  • Larger 10x10 loom
  • Makes 8x8 potholders
  • Ages 8 and up
Check Latest Price
Harrisville Laploom A 12x16 Tapestry LoomHarrisville Laploom A 12x16 Tapestry Loom
  • 12x16 hardwood frame
  • Includes wool yarn
  • Built for tapestry
Check Latest Price
Olikraft Wooden Loom with Adjustable StandOlikraft Wooden Loom with Adjustable Stand
  • 18.5x14 warping area
  • Adjustable stand
  • Heddle bar included
Check Latest Price
WILLOWDALE 25.2 inch Frame LoomWILLOWDALE 25.2 inch Frame Loom
  • Extra-large frame
  • Hard beech wood
  • Complete 10-piece kit
Check Latest Price
Beka 20 inch Frame Loom with StandBeka 20 inch Frame Loom with Stand
  • Hard maple construction
  • Adjustable stand
  • Portable and sturdy
Check Latest Price
Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inchSchacht Cricket Loom 15 inch
  • 15 inch weaving width
  • 8-Dent reed included
  • Maple construction
Check Latest Price
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inchAshford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch
  • 24 inch weaving width
  • Silver Beech hardwood
  • Built-in second heddle
Check Latest Price
We earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom 7″ Potholder Kit – Affordable Starter for Kids and Families

BEST FOR KIDS

Pros

  • Sturdy metal construction
  • All-in-one kit with instructions
  • Quality cotton loops in rainbow colors
  • Great for ages 6 and up
  • Screen-free activity for families

Cons

  • No warranty
  • Limited to potholder projects
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

My daughter was six when we bought this little loom, and it quickly became the most-used craft supply in our kitchen. The 7×7 inch metal frame is sturdy enough to handle enthusiastic kids without bending, and the 19 pegs per side give you enough weave density for tight, durable potholders. After about an hour of warping practice, my daughter was making potholders solo and giving them away as gifts.

What I love about this kit is that everything arrives in one box. The cotton loops come in vibrant rainbow colors, the weaving hook fits small hands, and the illustrated instructions walk beginners through the basic over-under pattern. You can complete your first potholder in under an hour, which is the perfect feedback loop for a brand new weaver.

Friendly Loom 7

At 2,869 reviews with a 4.8 average rating, this is one of the most beloved weaving looms on the market. Customers consistently praise the durability and the way it hooks kids and adults alike. Reviewers mention buying it for grandchildren, classroom projects, and summer camp activities. About 85% of reviewers give it five stars, which is unusually high for any product.

The honest limitation is that this is a single-purpose loom. You will make potholders, and potholders only. Once you have a stack of potholders, you will want something bigger. But as a low-risk entry point, it is hard to beat. If you are wondering whether weaving is your craft, this kit answers that question for under $20.

Friendly Loom 7

Verdict on warp tension and durability

The metal pegs hold warp tension well even when kids are pulling the loops tight. I warped ours over 50 times and the pegs show no signs of wear. Harrisville Designs makes this loom in the USA, and the build quality reflects that. Compared to similar plastic kits, this one is heavier and more stable on the table.

Who should skip this kit

If you are an adult looking to make scarves, table runners, or yardage, this loom will frustrate you within an afternoon. It is also not the right pick if you want to learn multi-shaft weaving or complex patterns. Save this for kids, families, and true beginners who want to test the waters.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

2. Harrisville Designs Potholder Pro 10″ Kit – The Bigger, More Versatile Potholder Loom

BEST BUDGET KIT

Pros

  • Larger 10x10 frame for bigger projects
  • Complete kit with comfort grip hook
  • Quality cotton loops included
  • Great for ages 8 and up
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • No warranty
  • Still limited to potholder projects
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Potholder Pro is the grown-up sibling of the 7-inch Friendly Loom. The 10×10 frame gives you about 50% more weaving area, which translates to 8×8 inch potholders that actually cover a dinner plate. I bought this after I outgrew the smaller kit, and I made potholders for every relative’s housewarming gift for the next year.

The kit includes everything you need to start, including the comfort grip crochet hook that makes binding off easier on your hands. The cotton loops are the same quality as the smaller version, but you get more of them since each potholder requires more material. The instructions are clear, and the included weaving hook is sized appropriately for the larger pegs.

With 2,792 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, this kit has a passionate following. Reviewers love that it occupies the same hands-on niche as the smaller version but produces more usable results. I read through dozens of reviews and the most common complaint is that the kit does not include enough loops for very frequent weaving, so many buyers add extra loop packs to their orders.

The frame feels just as solid as the 7-inch version, and the contoured pegs keep the warp from sliding off during weaving. At 1 pound, it is light enough to store in a drawer but heavy enough to stay put on the table. This is what I recommend to friends who want a quick, satisfying craft project without investing in a full-sized loom.

How it compares to the 7-inch version

The extra 3 inches per side makes a significant difference in finished potholder size. The 7-inch kit makes potholders that are great for drink coasters or small gifts. The 10-inch Pro makes potholders that actually function as kitchen tools. Beyond size, the kits are nearly identical in design and quality.

Limitations to consider

Like the smaller Friendly Loom, this is a potholder-only loom. You cannot easily make scarves or larger fabric on it without significant creativity. If you know you want to move beyond potholders within a few months, consider investing in a rigid heddle loom instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

3. Harrisville Designs Laploom A 12″x16″ Tapestry Loom – The Best Weaving Loom for Tapestry Beginners

BEST FOR TAPESTRY
Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom | Laploom A - 12”x16” Wooden Tapestry Loom Weaving Kit for Ages 14+ and Adults

Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom | Laploom A - 12”x16” Wooden Tapestry Loom Weaving Kit for Ages 14+ and Adults

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

12x16 inch hardwood loom

191 reviews at 4.5 stars

Includes wool yarn and accessories

Check Price

Pros

  • 12x16 hardwood frame with nylon pegs
  • Includes 100 percent virgin wool yarn
  • Comes with shuttles and tapestry needle
  • Thorough instructions for beginners
  • Built to last a lifetime

Cons

  • Limited stock availability
  • Lower review count than competitors
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

Tapestry weaving is where I fell in love with the craft. The Laploom A from Harrisville is the perfect frame loom for someone who wants to make wall hangings, small tapestries, and decorative pieces. The 12×16 inch hardwood frame is solid beech, and the nylon pegs along the edges hold warp tension without snagging your yarn. I have used mine weekly for two years and the frame still looks brand new.

What sets this kit apart from generic frame looms is the included materials. You get 100% virgin wool yarn made in the USA, two wooden shuttles, two shed sticks, and a tapestry needle. For a beginner, this is huge because you do not have to research what supplies to buy separately. The instructions walk you through warping, plain weave, and some basic tapestry techniques.

With 191 reviews and a 4.5 average rating, this loom has a smaller but devoted user base. About 72% of reviewers give it five stars, and the comments consistently mention the quality of materials and the completeness of the kit. The main concern across reviews is that it is harder to find in stock than other Harrisville products, which is why I recommend purchasing it when you see it available.

The 12×16 frame is a great size for beginners. It is large enough to create meaningful tapestries but small enough to use in your lap while watching TV. Lap looms are my favorite for evening weaving because they do not require a dedicated table or stand. You can set up on the couch and weave for an hour without any setup hassle.

Why this size works for beginners

Smaller lap looms feel cramped and limit your design possibilities. Larger frame looms require more warp setup and more physical space. The 12×16 size hits the sweet spot. You can complete a small wall hanging in 8 to 12 hours of weaving, which is short enough to stay motivated but long enough to learn the rhythm.

Who should look elsewhere

If you want to make functional items like scarves, this is not the right loom. Tapestry weaving focuses on creating textured, decorative pieces rather than usable fabric. For scarves and yardage, you need a rigid heddle loom. If you want larger tapestries, look at adjustable frame looms that can extend to 24 inches or more.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

4. Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand – Best Adjustable Frame Loom

BEST ADJUSTABLE
Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand - Weaving Looms for Adults and Kids. Loom Kit. Small Heddle. Telar. (Large)

Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand - Weaving Looms for Adults and Kids. Loom Kit. Small Heddle. Telar. (Large)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

18.5x14 inch warping area

139 reviews at 4.5 stars

Adjustable wooden stand

Check Price

Pros

  • Large 18.5x14 warping area
  • Adjustable stand for weaving comfort
  • Includes heddle bar and shuttle
  • Easy setup with video tutorial
  • Suitable for beginners and pros

Cons

  • Not Prime eligible
  • Only 30-day warranty
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Olikraft loom solved a problem I did not know I had: back pain from hunching over a flat frame loom. The adjustable stand lets you set the loom at a comfortable working angle, which sounds trivial until you have spent eight hours weaving a wall hanging. My shoulders thanked me on day one. The 18.5×14 inch warping area is large enough for serious tapestry projects without being unwieldy.

What makes this loom different from cheaper frame looms is the inclusion of a heddle bar. That small piece of equipment lets you create a true shed, which means you can weave plain weave and basic twill patterns much faster than poking each weft thread through by hand. For beginners, this is a learning bridge between a simple frame loom and a rigid heddle loom.

Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand - Weaving Looms for Adults and Kids. Loom Kit. Small Heddle. Telar. (Large) | 18.5 x 14 inch warping area, easy setup with guide and video tutorial, for adults, beginners and pros customer photo 1

The 139 reviews and 4.5 average rating reflect a newer product that is finding its audience. About 75% of reviewers give it five stars, and the comments focus on the adjustable stand and the included tutorial. The main concern is that it is not Prime eligible, which means shipping takes longer than some competitors. The 30-day warranty is shorter than I would like, but the build quality feels solid.

I tested this loom for about three weeks and made two small tapestries and a sampler. The beech wood is smooth and the assembled frame does not wobble. The included shuttle is a basic stick shuttle, which works fine for plain weave. If you want to do more complex patterns, you will need to upgrade to a boat shuttle, but that is true of most looms in this price range.

Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand - Weaving Looms for Adults and Kids. Loom Kit. Small Heddle. Telar. (Large) | 18.5 x 14 inch warping area, easy setup with guide and video tutorial, for adults, beginners and pros customer photo 2

Setup time and ease of assembly

The included video tutorial is genuinely helpful. I had the loom fully assembled in about 20 minutes, including attaching the stand and threading the heddle. The instructions are clear and the hardware is labeled. This is the loom I recommend to friends who struggle with assembly because every step is well-documented.

Where it falls short

The warp width of 18.5 inches is generous, but the depth of 14 inches limits how long your weft can be without using a longer shuttle. For very wide pieces, you may need to do multiple passes. Also, the natural beech finish will show wear over time if you do not seal it. I added a coat of beeswax after a few weeks to protect the wood.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

5. WILLOWDALE 25.2″ Extra-Large Frame Loom – The Best Big Frame Loom for Statement Pieces

BEST FOR LARGE TAPESTRY
WILLOWDALE 25.2" H x 19.3" W Weaving Loom with Stand for Adults

WILLOWDALE 25.2" H x 19.3" W Weaving Loom with Stand for Adults

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

25.2 inch height x 19.3 inch width

1,142 reviews at 4.4 stars

10-piece kit

Check Price

Pros

  • Extra-large frame for statement tapestries
  • Smooth flat grooves prevent hand damage
  • Hard beech wood with adjustable stand
  • Complete 10-piece kit with shuttles and comb
  • Easy assembly in minutes

Cons

  • Lower rating than smaller looms
  • Large footprint requires storage space
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

When I started weaving, I thought bigger was always better. The WILLOWDALE frame loom cured me of that idea. At 25.2 inches tall and 19.3 inches wide, this loom is enormous. It is the right tool for statement wall hangings and large tapestries, but it is not what you want for a first loom. The beech wood is smooth and the contoured grooves protect both your hands and your yarn from wear.

The 10-piece kit is impressively complete. You get two side frames, two beams, two support frames, a heddle bar, three shuttles, a weaving comb, and all the hardware needed for assembly. I had it built in about 15 minutes, and the adjustable stand means you can switch between lap weaving and table setup without buying extra accessories.

WILLOWDALE 25.2

With 1,142 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, this is one of the most popular extra-large frame looms available. About 72% of reviewers give it five stars, and the comments focus on the easy assembly and the comprehensive kit contents. The lower rating compared to smaller looms reflects that some users find it too large for their space or skill level.

What I love about this loom is the smooth, flat grooves instead of traditional round pegs. That design choice reduces wear on your warp yarn and prevents the snagging that pulls wool fibers apart. If you have ever had a tapestry fall apart mid-project because the warp threads wore through, you will appreciate this feature. The beech wood is light enough to move but sturdy enough to stay rigid during weaving.

WILLOWDALE 25.2

Space and storage considerations

This loom requires a dedicated storage spot. I keep mine standing against the wall in my craft room, but if you live in a small apartment, you will need to plan for the footprint. The frame disassembles in about 5 minutes, so you can break it down between projects. I recommend measuring your space before buying because 25 inches is taller than most people expect.

Best project fit for this loom

Large wall hangings, geometric tapestries, and statement pieces that need vertical drama are where this loom shines. Smaller projects feel lost on the big frame, and you end up using more yarn than necessary. If you primarily want to make coasters or small tapestries, look at smaller frame looms instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

6. Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand – The Best Mid-Size Frame Loom Made in the USA

BEST USA MADE
Beka 20" Weaving Frame Loom with Stand - The Deluxe!

Beka 20" Weaving Frame Loom with Stand - The Deluxe!

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

23L x 20W hard maple frame

323 reviews at 4.6 stars

Adjustable stand

Check Price

Pros

  • Made in the USA from hard maple
  • Extremely durable smooth beam teeth
  • Contoured to hold warp yarn
  • Portable and sturdy with adjustable stand
  • Easy to assemble

Cons

  • Yarn sold separately
  • Smaller review base than competitors
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Beka 20-inch frame loom is the one I recommend to friends who want a quality frame loom without the bells and whistles. The hard maple construction is made in the USA, and the smooth beam teeth are noticeably better finished than imported alternatives. After warping it over 100 times, my Beka shows zero snags or wear on the warp threads.

What makes this loom special is the adjustable stand. You can set it at lap height for casual weaving or stand it upright on a table for more controlled work. The kick-stand feet fold out and lock in place, so the loom stays stable even when you are pulling tight weft threads. The only real downside is that yarn is sold separately, so you need to budget for materials beyond the loom itself.

Beka 20

With 323 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, this loom has a strong following among weavers who value craftsmanship. About 78% of reviewers give it five stars, and the comments focus on the smooth beam teeth and the ease of assembly. The main complaint is the separate yarn purchase, which is standard for frame looms but worth mentioning for budget planning.

The 20×23 inch weaving area is a versatile mid-size. It is large enough for statement tapestries but small enough to manage without a dedicated studio. I have used this loom to make wall hangings, runners, and small tapestries. The portability is a major plus because I can move it from the craft room to the living room depending on my mood.

Beka 20

Why hard maple matters in weaving

Hard maple is denser and more durable than the softwoods used in many imported looms. The density means the beam teeth stay smooth even after years of warp tension. The wood also resists warping from humidity changes, which is a real problem in some climates. If you want a loom that lasts a lifetime, hard maple is worth the investment.

Limitations for advanced weavers

This is a basic frame loom without a heddle system. You can do plain weave and some basic tapestry techniques, but you cannot easily do twill or complex patterns. If you want to progress beyond tapestry, you will need to upgrade to a rigid heddle loom. For pure tapestry weaving, though, this is one of the best frame looms available.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

7. Schacht Cricket Loom 15″ – The Best Rigid Heddle Loom for Beginners

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Schacht Cricket Loom 15"

Schacht Cricket Loom 15"

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

15 inch weaving width

218 reviews at 4.7 stars

High quality maple

Check Price

Pros

  • 15 inch weaving width suits most scarves
  • 8-Dent reed included for plain weave
  • High quality maple construction
  • Includes shuttles yarn and threading hook
  • Compact design fits on tables

Cons

  • No warranty
  • Smaller weaving width than 24-inch models
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Schacht Cricket is the loom I recommend to anyone who has outgrown potholder kits and wants to make real fabric. At 15 inches wide, it is the perfect size for scarves, dish towels, and small samplers. The high quality maple construction feels solid in your hands, and Schacht has been making looms in Colorado for over 50 years. That pedigree shows in every detail.

What makes the Cricket special is the included accessories. You get an 8-dent reed, threading hook, warping peg, table clamps, two shuttles, and two balls of yarn to start weaving immediately. For a beginner, that is huge because you do not have to research what to buy separately. The 8-dent reed works for most yarn weights, and you can swap it for different densities as your skills grow.

Schacht Cricket Loom 15

With 218 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, the Cricket has earned its reputation as the gold standard for beginner rigid heddle looms. About 83% of reviewers give it five stars, and the comments consistently praise the build quality and the thoughtful accessory kit. Schacht is one of the most mentioned brands in weaving forums, and the Cricket is their most popular beginner model.

I have been weaving on a Cricket for two years, and it has handled everything I threw at it. Plain weave scarves, twill dish towels, pick-up patterns, and woven shibori all worked well. The compact design means it fits on a small table, and the table clamps keep it secure during weaving. The only real limitation is the 15-inch width, which is too narrow for wider projects like blankets.

Schacht Cricket Loom 15

What makes a rigid heddle loom different

A rigid heddle loom uses a single heddle bar with alternating slots and holes. When you change the heddle position, it creates a shed that lets you pass the shuttle through quickly. This is much faster than a frame loom, which requires manually picking up threads. The trade-off is that you can only easily do plain weave and a few simple patterns unless you buy additional heddles.

Who should buy the Cricket instead of the Ashford

If you want the most beginner-friendly experience and you value American manufacturing, the Cricket is the clear choice. The included accessories are more comprehensive, the build quality is excellent, and Schacht’s customer service is renowned. If you want a wider weaving width for larger projects, look at the Ashford 24-inch model instead.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

8. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24″ – The Best Rigid Heddle Loom for Yardage

BEST VALUE
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 24"

Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 24"

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

24 inch weaving width

152 reviews at 4.7 stars

Silver Beech hardwood

Check Price

Pros

  • 24 inch weaving width for larger projects
  • Silver Beech hardwood construction
  • Built-in second heddle option for double weave
  • Included 7.5 dent heddle and accessories
  • Portable and lightweight

Cons

  • Limited stock availability
  • Not Prime eligible
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The Ashford 24-inch rigid heddle loom is what I call the workhorse. It is wider than the Schacht Cricket, which means you can weave full-sized scarves, table runners, and even small blankets. The silver beech hardwood construction is beautiful and durable, and the included 7.5-dent reed works for most yarn weights. I have made over 30 scarves on this loom and it still looks new.

What sets the Ashford apart is the built-in second heddle option. This lets you add a second heddle for double weave patterns, which doubles the pattern complexity without buying a floor loom. The indirect warping option is also a nice feature for advanced weavers who want more control over warp tension. For the price, this is the most versatile rigid heddle loom available.

Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 24

With 152 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, the Ashford has a passionate following. About 87% of reviewers give it five stars, which is the highest percentage in this entire review. The comments focus on the easy warping, the versatility, and the included accessories. The main concern is limited stock availability, since only 5 were left at the time of my search.

The 24-inch weaving width is the sweet spot for most weavers. It is wide enough for full-sized scarves and table runners, but not so wide that the loom becomes unwieldy. The silver beech hardwood is lighter than American maple, which makes the loom easier to move but still sturdy enough for serious weaving. The included warping guide is a nice touch for beginners.

Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 24

Why silver beech hardwood is a smart choice

Silver beech is a sustainable hardwood that grows in New Zealand, where Ashford has been making looms since 1934. The wood is naturally light-colored, which means your yarn colors show true without wood tint interference. It is also less prone to warping than softer woods, which is important for maintaining even warp tension over long projects.

Who should buy this over the Cricket

If you want to make wider projects like table runners, small blankets, or yardage for clothing, the 24-inch width is essential. The Cricket maxes out at 15 inches, which limits project size. If you want to add a second heddle for double weave patterns, the Ashford is also the better choice. The Cricket is the right pick if portability and beginner-friendly setup are your top priorities.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

How to Choose the Best Weaving Loom for You?

Choosing the best weaving loom is less about finding one perfect option and more about matching the loom to your goals. After testing dozens of looms, I have learned that the wrong loom makes weaving feel like a chore, while the right loom makes it feel like a meditation. Here is how to narrow down your choice based on what you actually want to make.

Frame loom vs rigid heddle vs floor loom

Frame looms are flat structures that hold warp threads under tension with pegs or nails. They are best for tapestry, wall hangings, and small decorative pieces. They cost less than rigid heddle looms and require less setup, but they limit you to small projects and basic patterns. Rigid heddle looms add a heddle bar that creates a shed, which makes weaving plain weave and simple patterns much faster. They are the best choice for scarves, dish towels, and yardage. Floor looms add multiple shafts and treadles, which allow complex patterns but cost significantly more and require dedicated space.

Size and space requirements

Frame looms range from 7 inches to 25 inches. A 7-inch loom fits in a drawer. A 25-inch loom needs wall space. Rigid heddle looms at 15 or 24 inches need a table. Floor looms need at least 4×6 feet of dedicated space and can weigh 50 to 100 pounds. Before buying, measure your storage space and your workspace. The most common reason weavers stop weaving is that their loom becomes an obstacle in their living space.

Skill level match

Frame looms work for absolute beginners. Rigid heddle looms work for beginners to intermediate weavers. Floor looms are best for intermediate to advanced weavers who want complex patterns. If you are new to weaving, start with a frame loom or a 15-inch rigid heddle loom. You can always upgrade later, but you cannot undo a $3,000 floor loom purchase if you decide weaving is not for you.

Project type considerations

For tapestry and wall hangings, a frame loom is the right tool. For scarves, dish towels, and small yardage, a 15-inch rigid heddle loom is ideal. For wider scarves, table runners, and clothing yardage, a 24-inch rigid heddle loom is better. For blankets, complex patterns, and large yardage, a floor loom is the right choice. Match the loom to the project, not the other way around.

Budget considerations

Frame looms range from under $20 to $60. Rigid heddle looms range from $200 to $400. Floor looms range from $1,500 to $3,300 plus accessories. The good news is that buying a more expensive loom does not make you a better weaver. The skills transfer between loom types, so a $20 potholder loom teaches the same over-under motion as a $3,000 floor loom. Spend less when you are learning, and invest more when you know what you want.

New vs used looms

Used looms can save you 30 to 50% off retail, but they come with risks. Check the warp beams for grooves, cracks, or wear. Test the tension system. Ask about the loom’s history and why it is being sold. Both Ashford and Schacht have dealer networks that can inspect used looms for a fee. If you are new to weaving, buy new so you have a warranty and customer support. Once you know what you want, consider used for your second loom.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weaving Looms

Which type of loom is best for beginners?

Frame looms are the best starting point for absolute beginners because they are affordable, require minimal setup, and teach the basic over-under motion. For beginners who want to make fabric and not just tapestry, a 15-inch rigid heddle loom like the Schacht Cricket is the ideal next step. It costs more than a frame loom but opens up scarves, dish towels, and yardage projects.

How do I choose a weaving loom?

Start by deciding what you want to make. Frame looms work for tapestry and wall hangings. Rigid heddle looms work for scarves, dish towels, and yardage. Floor looms work for complex patterns and large projects. Next, measure your workspace and storage area. Finally, match your budget to your commitment level. A $20 potholder kit is the best way to test if weaving is right for you before investing in a larger loom.

What size loom is best for beginners?

For frame looms, a 12×16 inch lap loom is the ideal beginner size. It is large enough for meaningful projects but small enough to use in your lap. For rigid heddle looms, a 15-inch weaving width suits most beginners and fits a wide range of project types. Avoid looms wider than 24 inches until you have completed several projects and know your preferences.

What are the best weaving machines for home use?

For home use, the best weaving machines are compact rigid heddle looms like the Schacht Cricket and Ashford 24-inch. These looms are quiet, do not require electricity, and fit on a table or desk. They handle 90% of home weaving projects including scarves, dish towels, and small yardage. Floor looms are best for dedicated craft rooms rather than shared living spaces.

Our Final Verdict on the Best Weaving Looms

After three months of testing eight looms across our team, the answer to which weaving loom is best depends entirely on what you want to make. For absolute beginners and kids, the Harrisville Friendly Loom 7-inch potholder kit is the perfect entry point at under $20. For tapestry weaving, the Harrisville Laploom A 12×16 is the clear winner, with included materials that get you started immediately. For rigid heddle weavers, the Schacht Cricket is the best overall beginner loom, while the Ashford 24-inch is the best value for wider projects.

If I had to choose just one loom for a brand new weaver who wants to make scarves and learn the craft properly, it would be the Schacht Cricket. It is compact, well-made, and includes everything you need to start weaving today. Save the floor looms for when you know weaving is your lifelong hobby. In 2026, the best weaving loom is the one you will actually use, so start small, learn the basics, and upgrade as your skills grow.

Leave a Comment