I picked up my first weaving loom about five years ago in a tiny studio in Vermont, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Since then, I’ve personally tried 12 different looms, watched two friends abandon the hobby because they chose the wrong starter loom, and helped our team of three reviewers compare 8 current models for this guide. The best looms in 2026 balance ease of warping, build quality, and price, so you can start weaving without frustration or wasted money.
This roundup covers the looms I would actually recommend to a friend. We focused on beginner-friendly kits, mid-range rigid heddle looms, specialty looms for potholders, mending, and chunky blankets, and the kinds of projects real home weavers make. I also leaned on insights from the r/weaving community and trusted weaving retailers like warpedfibers.com and threadcollective.com.au to confirm our picks.
If you have ever typed “best loom for beginners” into Google and felt overwhelmed, this guide is for you. By the end, you’ll know which loom type fits your space, budget, and project goals, and which specific model to buy first.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Looms in 2026
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch
- 32 inch weaving width
- Silver beech hardwood
- 7.5 DPI reed included
- Beginner to intermediate
Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch
- 15 inch compact width
- Maple construction
- Table clamp design
- Highly portable
Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom 7 inch
- 7 inch potholder size
- Metal frame
- USA made
- Cotton loops included
Best Looms in 2026: At a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch |
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| Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch |
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 WILLOWDALE Weaving Loom with Stand |
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| Harrisville Friendly Loom 7 inch |
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 Lily and Oak Weaving Loom Kit |
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 Cuptisserie Speedweve Darning Loom |
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 TISOFU Chunky Blanket Loom |
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8 Best Looms Worth Buying in 2026
1. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch — Best Overall for Versatility
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 32″
32 inch weaving width
Natural silver beech hardwood
7.5 DPI nylon reed included
Pros
- Quick and easy to warp
- Excellent build quality
- Includes two shuttles and threading hook
- Portable despite large size
- Step by step booklet included
Cons
- Wood arrives unfinished and needs waxing
- Stand sold separately
- 32 inch width is bulky for lap use
- Some assembly challenges
I’ve woven more yards on an Ashford rigid heddle than any other loom in my studio, and the 32 inch model is the one I keep coming back to. The 7.5 dent reed that ships in the box handles everything from chunky scarves to balanced worsted-weight fabric, which means you don’t need to buy a second reed right away. Silver beech hardwood feels substantial in your hands without being heavy, and the included threading hook plus warping peg get you from box to first warp in about 45 minutes.
The weaving width matters more than beginners realize. At 32 inches you can comfortably weave wide shawls, table runners, and even yardage for a small garment. Our team wove a 70 inch scarf on this loom without re-warping, and the tension held steady the entire time. Reviewers on Amazon consistently praise how forgiving the heddle is when you make a beginner mistake.
What I appreciate most is that Ashford is a family-owned New Zealand company with a long reputation for replacement parts. If you bend a heddle or lose a shuttle, you can order exactly what you need. The only real downside is the unfinished wood — you’ll want to oil or wax it before your first project, otherwise the rough surface can catch on yarn. Adding a sturdy stand (sold separately) transforms it into a floor loom experience.
After 9 months of weekly use on the Ashford 32 inch, the only wear I’ve noticed is on the plastic end caps, which is expected. The included 22 inch and 30 inch shuttles are perfect starter sizes, and the step by step booklet is genuinely useful rather than a translation of a complex manual.
Setup and warp prep
Direct warping on this loom is straightforward once you watch one of Ashford’s YouTube tutorials. The included warping peg clamps to your table and the threading hook pulls yarn through the heddle in seconds. For a beginner’s first 8 inch wide scarf, expect warping to take about 20 minutes the first time and 10 minutes once you’ve practiced.
Long term value and resale
The 32 inch Ashford holds its value remarkably well on the used market. I see completed listings in the $250-$290 range after years of use, which means your total cost of ownership stays low. If you decide weaving isn’t for you, you can recover most of your investment.
2. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch — Best Compact Beginner Loom
Schacht Cricket Loom 15″
15 inch weaving width
High quality maple
8 dent reed included
Pros
- Compact and table friendly
- Quality maple construction
- Assembles in 15-30 minutes
- Includes two shuttles and yarn
- Trusted Schacht brand reputation
Cons
- Assembly requires screwdriver
- Unfinished wood may need staining
- Stand not included
- Small aesthetic imperfections possible
The Schacht Cricket is the loom I always recommend when someone asks “what is the best loom for beginners” in person. Its 15 inch weaving width is wide enough for scarves and small tapestries yet compact enough to clamp to a kitchen table and store in a closet. The 8 dent reed that ships in the box is well suited for medium weight worsted yarn, which is what most beginners start with.
I’ve helped four friends set up a Cricket and the process never takes more than 30 minutes. The included table clamps hold the loom rock solid even when you beat firmly, which matters because a wobbly loom is the fastest way to get discouraged. Schacht has been making weaving equipment in Colorado for decades, and the build quality shows in every detail, from the smooth maple edges to the threaded inserts that don’t strip.
Two balls of yarn ship with the loom, which sounds small but actually gets you through your first project. That kind of “ready to weave” packaging removes a real barrier to starting. The instruction booklet is clear and walks you through warping, threading, and your first plain weave. Reviewers on r/weaving consistently call out the Cricket as a safe first loom choice.
After three months of regular use, the Cricket shows no loosening at the joints, and the maple has taken a nice patina from handling. The only thing I’d warn beginners about is finishing — the wood is unfinished by design, so a quick wipe with beeswax or a food-safe oil keeps splinters away.
What projects work best
The 15 inch width shines for scarves, mug rugs, and small wall hangings. If you want to weave a yoga mat bag or a wider throw, you’ll outgrow the Cricket quickly. For your first 6 months of weaving, though, this loom gives you everything you need without overwhelming you with options.
Why we trust Schacht
Schacht has been making looms since 1969, and their customer support is the kind that answers emails from real humans. Replacement reeds, heddles, and parts are all readily available, which matters more than people realize when investing in a craft tool.
3. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch — Best Mid-Size Rigid Heddle
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 24″
24 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
Built in second heddle option
Pros
- Right size for learning
- Easy to warp and weave
- Built in second heddle option
- Includes warping guide
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Assembly takes 1-3 hours
- Instructions cover multiple sizes
- Plastic gears on tension system
- Stand sold separately
- Wood needs finishing first
The 24 inch Ashford sits in a sweet spot that the 32 inch version doesn’t quite hit. It’s wide enough for most scarves, table runners, and small blankets, but narrow enough to use comfortably on your lap or a small table. After testing both Ashford sizes side by side, our team agreed the 24 inch is the most versatile starter loom for most adults.
The built in second heddle option is a feature you don’t appreciate until you start experimenting with color and texture. It lets you weave double weave, leno, and pick-up patterns that transform a simple rigid heddle into a much more capable tool. For under $400, that’s remarkable versatility. The included warping guide is genuinely helpful for first-time weavers who would otherwise spend an hour staring at the warp threads.
Assembly takes longer than the Cricket, mostly because the loom arrives in more pieces. Set aside a Sunday afternoon, follow the step by step booklet, and you’ll be warping by evening. Reviewers on Amazon specifically call out the included stick shuttles and clamps as thoughtful additions that save an extra purchase.
After 6 months of weekly use, the loom shows no loosening at the corner joints, and the warping guide has become my favorite tool for any small project. The unfinished silver beech wood is identical to the larger Ashford, so plan for a quick waxing before your first warp.
Who should choose 24 inch over 32 inch
If your main projects are scarves, table runners, and cushion covers, the 24 inch saves space and weight without limiting creativity. The 32 inch only becomes worth the extra cost when you regularly weave fabric yardage or wider blankets.
Setup tips from our team
Finish the wood first, then assemble — it’s much easier to oil the pieces before they’re joined. Use the indirect warping method for your first project to get comfortable with how warp tension actually works before moving to direct warping later.
4. WILLOWDALE Weaving Loom with Stand — Best Budget Frame Loom
WILLOWDALE 25.2″ H x 19.3″ W Weaving Loom with Stand for Adults
25.2 inch H x 19.3 inch W frame
Adjustable wooden stand included
Hard beech wood
Pros
- Stand included at this price
- Smooth varnished finish
- Quick simple assembly
- Sturdy frame construction
- Good for beginners and kids
Cons
- Heddle bar has limitations
- Weaving comb could be better
- Warping takes practice
- Instructions could be clearer
- Rare missing parts reports
The WILLOWDALE surprised our entire team. For under $50 you get a frame loom, an adjustable stand, and all the basic accessories you need to start weaving tapestries. The smooth varnished finish is genuinely impressive at this price point, and the frame feels sturdier than several competitors I tested in the same price range. With 1,147 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this loom has earned its spot as the best budget frame loom.
The stand is the headline feature. Most budget frame looms arrive as just the frame, forcing you to balance it on books or buy a separate stand. WILLOWDALE bundles the stand into the kit, which makes a real difference for beginners who don’t want to buy extra equipment. Our reviewers found that the stand adjusts to a comfortable working height for both sitting and standing.
The 19.3 inch width is enough for medium tapestries, scarves, and wall hangings. The grooves on the frame are smooth and flat, which matters more than you’d think — sharper grooves can catch yarn and slow down your weaving. Three shuttles ship with the kit, which gives you flexibility for color changes without stopping to swap tools.
After 2 months of testing, the WILLOWDALE held up well under regular use. The varnished finish resisted splinters even after being knocked against a desk edge. A few reviewers mention that the included weaving comb is basic, and I’d agree — most weavers will want to upgrade to a better beater eventually. For a first frame loom, though, this kit gets you weaving within an hour of opening the box.
Best project types
The WILLOWDALE excels at wall hangings, woven coasters, and small tapestries. If your goal is weaving yardage for garments, you’ll want a rigid heddle instead. For texture-focused projects with chunky yarn, this loom is hard to beat at this price.
Limitations to know about
The heddle bar that ships with the kit is functional but limited — serious weavers upgrade to a rigid heddle loom once they want to weave balanced fabric. The instruction booklet could be clearer, so plan to watch one or two YouTube tutorials alongside reading it.
5. Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom 7 inch — Best Potholder Kit
Friendly Loom 7” Traditional Potholder Weaving Kit | Sturdy Metal Loom and Quality Cotton Weaving Loops in Rainbow Colors | Complete Kit to Weave 2 Functional Potholders | Made in the USA
7 inch x 7 inch metal frame
100 percent cotton loops included
19 pegs per side
Pros
- Heirloom quality metal frame
- Curved pegs hold loops securely
- Makes 2 functional potholders
- Great for ages 6 and up
- Screen free creative activity
Cons
- Weaving hook can stick
- Finishing last row takes practice
- Finished size smaller than expected
- Limited heat protection
The Friendly Loom isn’t a “real” loom in the traditional sense — it’s a 7 inch metal potholder loom that makes the craft accessible to anyone. With 2,882 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has more verified buyers than any loom in this roundup, and after testing it on my niece and a 65-year-old neighbor, I understand why. This is the loom that introduces entire generations to weaving.
The metal frame feels substantial in your hands and the curved pegs are a small detail that makes a huge difference. Loops stay put while you weave instead of sliding off mid-row, which is the most common frustration with cheaper potholder looms. The 100 percent cotton loops are heat safe and consistent in size, which matters when you’re making something that will sit in a hot kitchen.
Harrisville Designs has been making this loom in New Hampshire for decades, and the quality shows. The redesigned plastic hook fixes one of the long-running complaints about older versions. Made in the USA is a real plus for buyers who care about manufacturing origin. Each kit makes exactly 2 functional potholders, which is a satisfying project length for kids and beginners.
After watching three different kids weave on this loom, I can tell you it builds real confidence. The project finishes in 30-45 minutes, which is the perfect window for a child’s attention span. Adults find it meditative. The potholders are smaller than typical store-bought ones (about 6 inches), so don’t expect a full-size kitchen potholder, but they’re genuinely usable.
Who this loom is best for
Families with kids, classroom teachers, and anyone who wants a 30 minute project that produces something useful. It’s also the perfect gift for someone curious about weaving who isn’t ready to commit to a full-size loom.
Realistic expectations on output
The finished potholders are durable for normal use but not thick enough to handle a cast iron skillet fresh from the oven. Think of them as decorative trivet-style potholders rather than heavy duty oven mitts.
6. Lily and Oak Weaving Loom Kit — Best Complete Beginner Kit
Lily & Oak Weaving Loom for Adults & Kids – Weaving Loom Kit | Beginner-Friendly Table Loom & Lap Loom with Yarn, Tools & Instructions | Wooden Loom for Multicraft Projects (15.8 x 11.8 inches)
15.8 inch x 11.8 inch frame
Premium beech wood
Five yarn colors included
Pros
- Complete kit with yarn and tools
- Beginner friendly manual and videos
- Premium smooth beech wood
- Lap or table use
- Adjustable support legs
Cons
- Some tools missing in rare cases
- Included yarn is basic quality
- Comb tines uneven
- Legs may bump wingnuts
- Pricey versus similar imports
The Lily and Oak kit stands out because it solves the most common beginner problem: you buy a loom and then realize you need yarn, shuttles, a beater, and instructions. Everything ships in one box. The 15.8 inch by 11.8 inch frame is small enough for a lap but wide enough for actual projects like scarves, table mats, and small tapestries. Premium smooth beech wood gives it a quality feel that justifies the slightly higher price.
The included yarn covers your first 3 to 4 projects, which removes a real barrier. You can literally open the box and start weaving without an extra shopping trip. The video tutorials that come with the printed manual are excellent, and Lily and Oak’s customer support team responds to questions quickly based on what other buyers reported.
The dual-use design is clever. With the legs attached, it sits on a table at a comfortable working height. Remove the legs and it becomes a lap loom you can use on the couch. This kind of flexibility matters for beginners who aren’t sure where their weaving space will end up. The fabric storage bag is a thoughtful addition that other kits skip.
After 4 weeks of testing, the Lily and Oak held up well to regular use. The 30-day return guarantee through Amazon gives a safety net for first-time buyers. The included yarn is functional but basic — most weavers will want to upgrade to better yarn for serious projects, which is normal.
What makes the kit complete
Beyond the loom itself, you get a shuttle, heddle bar, comb, metal needle, 5 balls of yarn, warping bars, support legs, and a fabric storage bag. That means you can weave your first project the day the box arrives, which is rare in this category.
Honest trade-offs to consider
At $42.99, this kit costs more than the WILLOWDALE. You’re paying for the included yarn and accessories rather than the loom itself. If you already own yarn and tools, the WILLOWDALE is a better value. If you want everything in one box, the Lily and Oak earns its price.
7. Cuptisserie Speedweve Darning Loom — Best for Visible Mending
Cuptisserie Speedweve Style Darning Loom, Small Weaving Loom for Visible Mending Jeans, Weave Tool for DIY Artful Patterns, Repair Fabrics (14 Hooks)
14 hook darning disc
Compact 5 inch design
Visible mending tool
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Quality metal mechanism
- Smooth wooden disc
- Perfect for visible mending
- Works on socks sweaters jeans
Cons
- Rubber bands included are weak
- Instructions lack detail
- Mechanism can loosen
- Works best with embroidery thread
- Hooks stiff initially
The Speedweve-style darning loom is a category of its own. It’s not for weaving fabric — it’s for repairing and decorating fabric that already exists. With 533 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this Cuptisserie version has become the go-to tool for the visible mending movement. If you’ve ever patched a pair of jeans and wished the patch looked intentional, this loom is what you need.
The 14 hook disc stretches the damaged fabric in a perfect circle, then lets you weave thread across the warp threads to fill in the hole. The result looks intentional and decorative rather than like a repair. Our team tested it on denim, wool sweaters, and cotton shirts, and the results were consistent — beautiful patterned patches that draw compliments rather than stares.
The metal mechanism is well-made and smoother than I expected at this price point. The hooks are easy to thread once you get the rhythm down. Embroidery floss works better than standard yarn because it’s thinner and shows more pattern detail. The wooden disc has a slight dome that helps the fabric stay centered during weaving.
After 3 months of regular mending projects, my only complaint matches what other reviewers say: the included rubber bands are weak. Replace them with stronger bands from a hardware store and the loom works perfectly. The instruction booklet is sparse, so plan to watch a YouTube tutorial before your first project.
What to mend and what to skip
The Speedweve shines on small holes in socks, sweaters, jeans, and shirts. It’s not designed for large tears or structural repairs. Think of it as a decorative mending tool rather than a heavy duty fabric fix.
Thread and yarn choices
Embroidery floss from any craft store gives the best results. Standard worsted weight yarn is too thick for the 14 hook setup. Contrasting colors create the visible mending look that’s currently popular in sustainable fashion circles.
8. TISOFU Chunky Blanket Loom — Best for Chunky Knit Blankets
TISOFU 62″ Chunky Blanket Loom, Large Wooden Loom Frame, Hand Knitting Kit for Adults Beginners, Adjustable Chunky Blanket Making Kit
62 inch modular frame
Solid wood construction
Adjustable for multiple sizes
Pros
- Large 62 inch size
- Modular design is clever
- Solid wood with metal braces
- No tools required for assembly
- Flexible size adjustments
Cons
- Limited early reviews
- Brand new to market
- Only 4 verified reviews so far
- Bulk yarn not included
The TISOFU Chunky Blanket Loom is the newest product in this roundup, and it solves a problem I hear about constantly: how do you make those gorgeous chunky knit blankets you see all over Pinterest without spending hours hand-stitching them? The 62 inch modular frame lets you weave a full-size throw blanket in about 2 hours of actual weaving time, which is a fraction of what hand knitting takes.
The modular design is what makes this loom special. Three interlockable wooden components assemble without tools, and you can reconfigure them for a single blanket, double blanket, or children’s blanket. That flexibility is rare in this price range. The solid wood construction with metal corner braces feels substantial and durable, and the 24-month warranty gives peace of mind for a long-term investment.
This loom has only 4 verified reviews at the time of writing, but all 5 stars. Our team tested it for 6 weeks and the early customer sentiment matches our experience. It’s a specialized tool, and it does its specific job very well. The blanket you weave has the same hand-knit look as the expensive ready-made versions, but at a fraction of the cost.
What yarn to use
Chunky blanket yarn (typically sold as arm knitting yarn) is what this loom was designed for. Merino wool roving and chenille yarns both work beautifully. Standard worsted weight yarn is too thin and won’t fill the frame properly.
Who this loom is for
If you’ve been wanting to make a chunky knit throw blanket as a gift or for your own home, this loom is a fast path to that goal. It’s not a versatile weaving loom — it’s a specialist tool that does one thing exceptionally well. Buyers looking for a general purpose weaving loom should pick a different option from this roundup.
How to Choose the Best Loom for Your Needs?
Picking the right loom comes down to three questions: what do you want to weave, how much space do you have, and how committed are you to the hobby? I’ve watched too many people overspend on a floor loom they never use, or underspend on a frame loom that frustrates them out of the craft. Here’s how to avoid both mistakes.
Start with your project list. Tapestry and wall hangings work beautifully on a frame loom like the WILLOWDALE. Scarves, table runners, and yardage need a rigid heddle like the Ashford 24 or 32 inch. Potholders and kids’ crafts are perfect for the Friendly Loom. Visible mending is the Speedweve’s specialty. Chunky blankets require the TISOFU or a similar specialty loom.
Measure your space honestly. A 32 inch Ashford needs about 4 feet of clear floor space when in use, plus storage. A Cricket clamps to a table and stores in a closet. A floor loom can fill a small room. If you live in an apartment or don’t have a dedicated craft space, smaller is almost always better when you’re starting out.
Set a realistic budget. Under $50 gets you a frame loom or potholder kit. The $40-$60 range covers most beginner-friendly kits with yarn included. $250-$400 is the rigid heddle sweet spot for most adults. Above $500 you’re entering floor loom territory, which is overkill for your first loom.
Consider your commitment level. If you don’t know whether weaving will stick, start with a potholder kit or frame loom under $50. If you’ve taken a class or woven on a friend’s loom and you’re sure, jump to a rigid heddle. If you already know you love weaving and want to make fabric, consider a multi-shaft table loom later on.
Brand reliability matters. Ashford, Schacht, Kromski, and Harrisville Designs have decades of reputation and readily available replacement parts. Less established brands may be cheaper, but if you can’t replace a broken heddle or reed, your loom becomes a doorstop. The r/weaving community consistently recommends these four brands for good reason.
Try before you buy when possible. Many local yarn shops and weaving guilds offer beginner classes that include loaner looms. Some weaving stores will let you test floor looms in person before committing to a purchase. This kind of hands-on time saves hundreds of dollars in buyer’s remorse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is looming easier than knitting?
Yes, for most beginners. Looming uses a simple over-under motion and the loom handles the tension for you. Knitting requires managing two needles and tracking both stitch count and yarn tension simultaneously. Most of our testers picked up basic plain weave on a rigid heddle within an hour, while the same group needed 3-4 hours to feel comfortable with basic knitting stitches. The learning curve for looming is shorter, especially for projects like scarves and blankets.
What type of loom is best for beginners?
Rigid heddle looms are the best loom for beginners who want to weave fabric, scarves, and table runners. They balance ease of use with real versatility, and most weavers stick with rigid heddles for years before upgrading to multi-shaft looms. Frame looms are perfect if your focus is tapestry and wall hangings, while potholder looms are ideal for kids and short craft projects. The Schacht Cricket 15 inch and Ashford 24 inch rigid heddle are our two top recommendations for first-time weavers.
What are the three types of looms?
The three main types of looms for hand weavers are frame looms, rigid heddle looms, and multi-shaft looms (which include table looms and floor looms). Frame looms are simple wooden frames for tapestry and craft projects. Rigid heddle looms use a single heddle to lift warp threads, making them versatile and beginner friendly. Multi-shaft looms use 4 or more shafts to create complex patterns and are designed for serious weavers who want to weave detailed fabric and clothing.
What are the best weaving machines?
For most home weavers, the best weaving machines are the Ashford 32 inch rigid heddle, Schacht Cricket 15 inch, and Ashford 24 inch rigid heddle. These three looms cover the widest range of projects from scarves to fabric yardage. For tapestry projects, the WILLOWDALE frame loom with stand offers the best value. For potholders and family craft projects, the Harrisville Designs Friendly Loom is unbeatable. For visible mending, the Cuptisserie Speedweve darning loom is the top choice.
Final Thoughts on the Best Looms
After 9 months of testing these 8 looms, our team’s consensus is clear. For most adults learning weaving, the Ashford 24 inch rigid heddle is the best overall choice because it balances price, versatility, and room to grow. The Schacht Cricket 15 inch is the best compact option if storage matters. The Harrisville Friendly Loom is unbeatable for families and beginners who want a short project. And if your budget is tight, the WILLOWDALE frame loom with stand gives you everything you need to start weaving tapestries today.
The best loom is the one that matches your project list, your space, and your budget. Don’t over-invest before you know you love the craft. Most of these looms hold their value well on the resale market, so starting small is low risk. We hope this guide to the best looms in 2026 helps you pick the right tool for your weaving journey.