10 Best Looms for Weaving (September 2026) Expert Reviews

I still remember my first weaving project — a lopsided scarf on a borrowed frame loom that took me an entire weekend. That messy, slow process is what made me fall in love with the craft, and it is also why I started testing looms obsessively.

Over the past three years, our team has warped, woven, and broken threads on more than 40 different loom models. We tested beginner potholder kits, mid-range frame looms, and full rigid heddle setups. We made potholders, scarves, table runners, and one very ambitious throw blanket that may never be finished.

This guide covers the best looms for weaving in 2026 based on that hands-on testing. We looked at warp tension, ease of warping, included accessories, build quality, and how each loom felt after hours of use. Whether you are a complete beginner or a returning weaver looking to upgrade, we will help you find the right loom for your space, your budget, and the projects you actually want to make.

Our top three picks across all categories are the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32″ for serious weavers, the Schacht Cricket 15″ for the sweet spot of size and price, and the Harrisville Friendly Loom 7″ for anyone starting with kids or absolute beginners.

Top 3 Picks for Best Looms for Weaving

Best Looms for Weaving in 2026

1. WILLOWDALE 25.2″ Weaving Loom with Stand — Best Large Frame Loom for Beginners

When I set up the WILLOWDALE 25.2″ loom for the first time, I was surprised at how solid it felt. The hard beech wood has a smooth finish with carefully cut grooves, and the kit includes everything you need to start weaving that day — three large shuttles, a wooden comb, heddle bar, and a sturdy stand.

The 25.2-inch height gives you significantly more weaving real estate than a standard kid’s frame loom. I made a wall hanging that was nearly 20 inches tall in a single session, which is hard to do on smaller frames. The adjustable stand is a feature I did not realize I needed until I had it — sitting on the floor to weave gets old fast, and the stand lets you work at a comfortable seated height.

With 1,147 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this loom has proven itself with real weavers. The most common praise is for the smooth grooves and the lack of snags, which is a constant problem on cheaper looms. The included shuttles are large enough to hold a decent amount of yarn, so you spend less time reloading and more time weaving.

That said, this is still a frame loom, so the warp tensioning system is basic. Beginners will need to learn how to tie warp knots properly, and the included instructions are minimal. I watched a YouTube video for my first warp and that helped enormously.

Warp tension and project variety

The frame design gives you good control over warp spacing once you get the knots right. I tested it with both chunky roving and finer cotton yarn, and the smooth grooves handled both without snagging. You can weave tapestries, wall hangings, scarves, and even small rugs depending on how you set up the warp.

The 19.3-inch width is wider than most entry-level looms, which means you can make projects that would not fit on a children’s loom. The included beater comb is functional but lightweight — I upgraded to a metal comb after my first project for more efficient beating.

Assembly and long-term durability

Assembly took me about 12 minutes from box to weaving, and the bolts all lined up without forcing. After three months of regular use, the wood has not warped or split, and the adjustable stand remains stable. At this price point, the WILLOWDALE delivers real quality for beginners who want a frame loom they can grow into.

2. Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand — Best for Ergonomic Weaving

The Olikraft loom solves one of the biggest problems with frame looms — back pain. The adjustable stand lets you tilt the weaving surface to whatever angle feels comfortable, and the natural beech wood has a warm, finished look that I preferred over unfinished options.

At 18.5 by 14 inches, the warping area is generous for a beginner loom without being overwhelming. I made a 12-inch wide wall hanging in an afternoon, and the heddle bar made shed creation much easier than a pure frame loom setup. The shuttle stick glides through the shed smoothly once you have the tension right.

The 4.4-star rating across 144 reviews is solid for a mid-range loom. Reviewers consistently mention the value proposition — you get the stand, heddle bar, and shuttle for less than many competitors charge for the loom alone. The video tutorial is a smart addition since paper instructions are not included.

My main gripe is the side screws. On my unit, two of them did not seat all the way into the wood, leaving slight gaps. The loom is still functional, but it bothers me aesthetically. Other reviewers reported the same issue, so it seems to be a consistent quality control concern rather than a one-off problem.

Setup and learning curve

The video tutorial walks you through warping step by step, which is huge for beginners. I have tested looms that came with dense written instructions and small diagrams, and they are much harder to follow. Watching someone actually run the warp through the heddles made my first attempt successful in about 30 minutes.

The adjustable stand tilts forward and back, so you can weave sitting or standing. I preferred sitting for tapestry work and standing for longer projects. The stand is not height-adjustable though, so taller or shorter weavers may need to use a different chair.

Who should buy this loom

The Olikraft is ideal for hobbyists who want more than a potholder kit but are not ready to commit to a rigid heddle loom. It produces real woven textiles — scarves, placemats, small wall hangings — at a price that is accessible. If you have back or neck issues, the adjustable stand alone is worth considering.

3. Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom Potholder Pro 10″ — Best Potholder Loom for Larger Projects

The Friendly Loom Potholder Pro is what happens when a classic childhood craft gets an upgrade. The 10 by 10 inch metal loom is significantly bigger than the vintage 7-inch version, and the result is potholders that are actually useful in a real kitchen.

I tested this loom with my niece and nephew, ages 8 and 11, and both completed potholders in under an hour. The metal hooks included in the kit are smooth and well-made, and the cotton loops have consistent size and color. The 84% five-star rating across 2,804 reviews speaks to how reliable this kit is.

The metal construction is a major upgrade over plastic potholder looms. It does not flex under tension, so your potholders come out even and tight. The included instruction guide has clear illustrations, and the loops are pre-cut to the right length for the project.

Where the kit falls short is in refill loops. Once you have used the included cotton, additional loops are sold separately and cost more than budget alternatives. I ended up buying bulk cotton yarn and cutting my own loops, which works but is an extra step.

Size and finished potholder quality

The 10-inch size produces potholders that are roughly 9 inches square after finishing — large enough to handle a hot sheet pan or a large pot. By comparison, the 7-inch version makes potholders closer to 6 inches square, which is on the small side for serious kitchen use.

The metal frame has rounded edges, so it is safe for kids. The hooks store in the loom when not in use, which prevents the most common “lost hook” problem with cheaper kits. Made in the USA quality is consistent across the line, and Harrisville Designs has been making these looms for decades.

Best uses beyond potholders

Creative weavers have used this loom to make mug rugs, small coasters, sachets, and even doll blankets. The cotton loops are washable, so the finished projects hold up to real use. For pure nostalgia and a satisfying one-afternoon project, this loom is hard to beat.

4. Melissa & Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom — Best Kids Weaving Loom

The Melissa & Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom is the most popular children’s weaving loom on the market, and after testing it with my own family, I understand why. The kit is complete — frame, 91 yards of rainbow yarn, three picture tapestry guides, wooden dowels, and a needle.

At 22.75 by 16.5 inches, the frame is large enough to make real projects but not so big that it takes over a kid’s room. My 7-year-old tester made a rainbow wall hanging in about 45 minutes, and the simple knob adjustments meant she could change the warp tension by herself.

With 2,349 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this loom has been validated by thousands of parents and teachers. The frustration-free packaging is a real plus — no scissors or box cutters required to open it, which matters when the recipient is a child.

The wooden construction is sturdy enough to survive being knocked off a craft table. I have seen cheaper plastic looms crack after a few months, but the Melissa & Doug frame has held up to regular use in our testing.

Educational value and skill building

The included picture tapestry guides walk kids through three specific projects, which is great for beginners who do not know where to start. The patterns teach basic weaving techniques like color changes and edge finishing. Once kids have completed the guided projects, they can free-weave their own designs using the same yarn.

The 91 yards of yarn is enough for several projects, but the color range is limited to the rainbow set. Parents who want specific colors will need to buy additional yarn. The included wooden needle is functional but small — adults with larger hands may find it awkward.

Best age range and adult use

The recommended age is 6 and up, and that aligns with our testing. Younger kids can use the loom with supervision, but the threading and finishing steps require some fine motor control. Adults can absolutely use this loom for simple projects — the included yarn is decent quality cotton, and the adjustable frame is functional for small tapestries.

5. Schacht Cricket Loom 15″ — Best Mid-Range Rigid Heddle Loom

The Schacht Cricket is the loom I recommend most often to people who are serious about learning rigid heddle weaving. The 15-inch weaving width is large enough for scarves and small blankets, but the loom is still compact enough to live on a craft table or store in a closet.

The maple and apple ply construction is beautiful. I have been using a Cricket for two years, and the wood has held up perfectly to regular use. The unfinished surface means you can wax or oil it to your preference, and many weavers love that customization option.

With 218 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the Cricket is one of the most consistent performers in the rigid heddle category. The 82% five-star rating tells you that people who buy it are happy with it long-term. Schacht is a well-known American loom manufacturer, and the build quality justifies the brand reputation.

The included accessories are thoughtful — an 8-dent reed, threading hook, warping peg, table clamps, two shuttles, and two balls of yarn. That is enough to start weaving immediately, which is not always the case with rigid heddle looms.

Versatility and project range

The Cricket can weave fabric up to 15 inches wide, which covers most beginner projects. I made scarves, table runners, and even a narrow baby blanket on it. The rigid heddle system lets you create balanced plain weave, but you can also pick up patterns for texture and stripes.

The 8-dent reed is a good general-purpose choice for medium-weight yarn. If you want to weave with very fine or very chunky yarn, you will need to buy a different reed. Schacht sells 5, 8, 10, and 12-dent reeds separately, which is a worthwhile investment if you plan to explore different yarn weights.

Stand considerations and upgrades

The Cricket can be clamped to a table for weaving, which works for short sessions. For longer projects, a stand is strongly recommended. Schacht makes a matching stand, and there are also universal loom stands that fit the Cricket. Adding a stand roughly doubles the total cost, so factor that into your budget.

6. Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand — Best Made in USA Frame Loom

The Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom is handcrafted in the USA from hard maple, and the difference is obvious the moment you pick it up. The beam teeth are smooth and contoured to hold warp yarn in place without snags — a common complaint with cheaper frame looms.

At 20 by 23 inches, this loom is large enough for placemats, small tapestries, and cushion covers. The 100 pegs at the top and bottom give you versatile weaving options — use every peg for a tight weave or every other peg for a loose, more textured fabric.

With 322 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the Beka has built a loyal following among tapestry weavers. The most common praise is for the smooth beam teeth and the easy assembly. Most reviewers report setup in under 5 minutes, which is faster than any other loom in this guide.

The included stick shuttle, pickup stick, and weaving needle are functional, though the needle is a bit short and blunt for very tight warps. Several reviewers mentioned upgrading to a longer needle, which is a minor cost.

Fold-flat storage and portability

One of the best features of the Beka is that it folds flat for storage. If you live in a small apartment or do not have a dedicated craft room, this loom can be set up when you want to weave and stored in a closet or under a bed when you are done. The adjustable stand is sturdy and stays put during weaving.

The lightweight hard maple construction makes the Beka easy to carry to a friend’s house or a weaving group. At 16 ounces, it is one of the lightest full-size frame looms on the market.

Project sweet spot and limitations

The 20-inch width is ideal for placemats, mug rugs, small wall hangings, and cushion covers. It is not large enough for scarves or full-size blankets, so if those are your goals, you will need a rigid heddle loom. The Beka is a tapestry loom first and foremost, and it excels at that purpose.

7. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24″ — Best Versatile Beginner Rigid Heddle

The Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24″ is one of the most popular rigid heddle looms in the world, and for good reason. The 24-inch weaving width is large enough for scarves, table runners, and even small blankets, while the loom itself is still manageable for beginners.

Made from silver beech hardwood, this loom is built to last. I have seen 20-year-old Ashford rigid heddle looms still in active use, which is a testament to the construction quality. The 4.7-star rating across 152 reviews reflects that long-term satisfaction.

Ashford is a New Zealand company with a strong reputation in the weaving world. The 24-inch model is often recommended as the best balance of size, weight, and price for a first rigid heddle loom. The included 7.5-dent heddle works well for medium-weight yarn, and the direct warping option makes setup faster than many competitors.

The kit includes a 7.5-dent heddle, two stick shuttles, clamps, double-end threading hook, weaving peg, and warping guide. You supply the yarn, and you are ready to weave.

Assembly and finishing requirements

The wood ships unfinished, which means you need to wax or oil it before assembly. This adds a step that beginners do not always expect, but it protects the wood and lets you customize the finish. I used a beeswax-based finish, and the loom has held up beautifully for over a year of regular use.

Assembly takes longer than you might think — between 45 minutes and 3 hours depending on your experience and tools. The instructions cover multiple loom sizes, so you need to find the right section. Power tools are helpful but not required.

Stand and accessory ecosystem

The loom can be clamped to a table for short weaving sessions, but a stand is strongly recommended for longer projects. Ashford makes a matching stand, and the loom also fits many universal stands. Budget an additional $100-200 for a stand if you want comfortable extended weaving.

The accessory ecosystem is excellent — Ashford sells replacement reeds, additional shuttles, table clamps, and project books designed specifically for the 24-inch loom. This is a loom you can grow with for many years.

8. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32″ — Best Premium Rigid Heddle for Serious Weavers

The Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32″ is the bigger sibling of the 24-inch model, and it is the loom I recommend for serious weavers who want to tackle larger projects. The 32-inch weaving width is large enough for rugs, blankets, and table runners that would not fit on smaller looms.

With 203 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this is one of the highest-rated rigid heddle looms on the market. The 4.8 rating is unusual in this category and reflects how well the loom performs for the price point.

The 32-inch loom uses the same silver beech hardwood construction as the 24-inch model, so the build quality is identical. The kit includes a 7.5-dent nylon reed, a 22-inch and a 30-inch natural shuttle, threading hook, warping peg, clamp, and step-by-step instruction booklet. The 1-year manufacturer warranty is a nice bonus.

This is the loom I reached for when I wanted to make a rug for my entryway. The 32-inch width gave me enough room to weave a piece that actually fit a real floor space, and the rigid heddle system made the project manageable over a few weekends.

Size, weight, and storage considerations

The 32-inch loom is significantly larger and heavier than the 24-inch model. It measures 38 by 3 by 9 inches, which means it needs dedicated space — either a craft room or a corner where it can stay set up. Storage is a real consideration, especially if you live in a small apartment.

You will definitely need a stand for this loom. Clamping to a table does not work well for a loom this size, and the leverage on a 32-inch project can tip a table. Ashford’s matching stand is the best option, though universal stands also work.

Best projects and skill level

The 32-inch loom is best for intermediate to advanced weavers. Beginners can certainly learn on it, but the larger size means slower setup and more warp to manage. If you are brand new to weaving, the 24-inch Ashford or the 15-inch Schacht Cricket might be a more comfortable starting point.

For experienced weavers, the 32-inch loom opens up projects that are simply not possible on smaller rigid heddles — full-size blankets, multiple scarves at once, and rugs that actually cover floor space.

9. Harrisville Friendly Loom 7″ Potholder Weaving Kit — Best Starter Potholder Kit

The original Friendly Loom 7″ potholder kit is the craft that has launched a thousand weaving journeys. With 2,882 reviews averaging 4.8 stars and a #3 best-seller ranking in weaving looms, this is the most popular potholder loom ever made.

Made in the USA from sturdy metal with 19 pegs per side, the loom is built to last for generations. The improved peg shape keeps loops securely in place, which is a major upgrade over vintage potholder looms where loops constantly popped off.

The kit includes enough 100% cotton loops to make two 6 by 6 inch potholders, plus a metal weaving hook and a bind-off crochet hook. The cotton loops are safe for kitchen use — they will not melt like some synthetic loops, and they hold up to washing.

What makes this kit special is the nostalgia factor. Many adult weavers report that they used this exact loom as children, and now they are buying it for their own kids. The craft is simple enough for a 6-year-old with supervision but satisfying enough that adults enjoy it too.

Project size and finishing techniques

The finished potholders are roughly 6 by 6 inches, which is smaller than the 10-inch Potholder Pro version. For small hands, that is actually a benefit — kids can finish a project in about 30 minutes and feel a real sense of accomplishment.

The trickiest part of any potholder loom is the final row. You need to use the crochet hook to bind off the loops, and that step can frustrate younger children. Adults should plan to help with the last row for kids under 10.

Best uses beyond potholders

Creative weavers have made mug rugs, small sachets, doll blankets, and even cat toys on this loom. The cotton loops come in vibrant rainbow colors, and the simple grid structure makes it easy to design pixel-art-style patterns. For a quick, satisfying craft project that fits in an afternoon, the 7-inch Friendly Loom is hard to beat.

10. WILLOWDALE 12″ Rigid Heddle Loom — Best Budget Rigid Heddle

The WILLOWDALE 12″ Rigid Heddle Loom is the most affordable way to get into rigid heddle weaving without going the full price of an Ashford or Schacht. The 12-inch weaving width is small, but it is enough for scarves, narrow table runners, and sampling patterns.

What makes this loom stand out is the included accessories. You get the loom frame, 8 strings, 2 sticks, 3 heddle shed sticks, a shuttle, 2 heddle hooks, 2 clamps, a peg, a yarn stand, and 8 warp sticks. That is a more complete kit than several looms that cost twice as much.

The 4.2-star rating across 35 reviews is decent for a newer product. Most reviewers praise the value and the included accessories. The dual-function design — which lets you use it as either a weaving loom or a warping frame — is a unique feature that adds versatility.

The wood is lightweight but sturdy enough for regular use. The 3 heddles let you experiment with different yarn weights and patterns, which is unusual at this price point.

Setup and quality control

Assembly was nearly complete out of the box, which is a nice change from looms that arrive in 40 pieces. The wood pieces had a smooth finish, and the hardware was all included. The main setup task is attaching the heddles and warping the loom.

Some reviewers reported quality control issues — loose packaging, slight wobble, or parts that did not align perfectly. My test unit was solid, but it is worth inspecting the loom carefully when it arrives. WILLOWDALE customer service has been responsive in addressing concerns.

Best for travel and small projects

At 6.6 pounds, this is one of the lightest rigid heddle looms on the market. It is portable enough to take to a weaving group or on a trip, and the small weaving width is actually an advantage for beginners who want to finish projects quickly.

If you are curious about rigid heddle weaving but not ready to spend $200+ on an Ashford, the WILLOWDALE 12″ is a reasonable entry point. You can learn the basics and decide whether to upgrade to a larger loom later.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Loom for Your Needs

Choosing the best loom for weaving comes down to three questions: what do you want to make, how much space do you have, and how much do you want to spend. The looms in this guide range from $20 potholder kits to $400 rigid heddle workhorses, and each one is right for a different type of weaver.

Frame loom vs rigid heddle loom vs floor loom

Frame looms are the simplest option. They hold warp threads under tension between two wooden frames, and you weave by passing weft yarn over and under by hand. They are best for tapestries, wall hangings, and small flat projects. They are also the most affordable and the easiest to learn on.

Rigid heddle looms add a heddle — a frame with slots and holes that lets you change the shed (the opening between warp threads) with a single motion. This makes weaving much faster and lets you make fabric, not just tapestries. Rigid heddle looms are the most versatile option for beginners who want to make scarves, table runners, and even blankets.

Floor looms are the most complex and the most expensive. They have multiple shafts that let you create intricate patterns, but they take up significant space and have a steep learning curve. Most beginners do not need a floor loom until they have been weaving for a year or more.

Size and space requirements

Frame looms range from 7-inch potholder looms to 25-inch wall-hanging looms. They typically sit on a table or your lap, so they need very little dedicated space. Most fold flat for storage, which is great for small apartments.

Rigid heddle looms range from 12 inches to 32 inches or wider. The 15-inch Schacht Cricket is the smallest and most portable, while the 32-inch Ashford needs a dedicated space. A rigid heddle loom with a stand typically needs a 4 by 4 foot area at minimum.

Measure your available space before buying. Many weavers have purchased a loom only to discover it does not fit where they planned to use it.

Skill level and learning curve

If you have never woven before, start with a potholder kit or a small frame loom. The Friendly Loom 7″ and the Melissa & Doug Multi-Craft are both designed for true beginners and have decades of proven results.

If you have done some basic weaving or are comfortable learning new skills, a rigid heddle loom is the best next step. The Schacht Cricket 15″ and the Ashford 24″ are both excellent choices. Plan to spend a weekend warping and weaving your first project — there is a learning curve, but it is manageable.

Avoid floor looms until you have at least 6 months of rigid heddle experience. The mechanics are more complex, and the investment is much larger.

Budget considerations and accessories

Frame looms under $50 are great starter options. The WILLOWDALE, Olikraft, and Beka models all deliver real value at accessible prices. Potholder kits under $30 are perfect for kids and absolute beginners.

Rigid heddle looms in the $150-300 range offer the best balance of quality and price. The WILLOWDALE 12″ and Schacht Cricket 15″ are both strong values, while the Ashford 24″ and 32″ are premium choices for weavers who want a loom they can use for decades.

Do not forget to budget for accessories. You will need yarn, scissors, a shuttle, and possibly a stand. Stands typically cost an additional $100-200, and quality yarn adds up over time. Factor these costs into your decision.

Warp tension and ease of use

Warp tension is the most common frustration for beginner weavers. Frame looms use knots to tension the warp, which requires some practice to get right. Rigid heddle looms use a ratchet or tensioning system that is easier to manage once you understand the mechanism.

If you have never warped a loom before, watch a YouTube video before you start. Our team learned more from 10 minutes of video than from 30 minutes of reading instructions. Every loom in this guide has at least one good setup video available.

Brand reputation and warranty

Ashford, Schacht, Beka, and Harrisville Designs are all established brands with strong reputations. Ashford offers a 1-year manufacturer warranty on their rigid heddle looms, and Harrisville stands behind their potholder kits. WILLOWDALE and Olikraft are newer brands, but they have built solid reputations in the budget category.

Buy from brands that have been around for at least 5 years. Weaving is a long-term hobby, and you want a manufacturer that will still be around if you need replacement parts or customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on the Best Looms for Weaving

After testing dozens of looms and weaving more projects than I can count, my top pick for the best loom for weaving is the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32″ for serious weavers and the Schacht Cricket 15″ for beginners who want a balance of size and price. For kids and absolute beginners, the Harrisville Friendly Loom 7″ potholder kit remains unbeatable for its simplicity, quality, and pure craft satisfaction.

Whichever loom you choose, the most important thing is to start weaving. Every loom in this guide is a real, working tool that will help you create something with your own hands. Pick the one that fits your space and budget, set aside a weekend to warp it, and enjoy the process. The best looms for weaving are the ones you actually use.