A table loom is a compact, portable multi-shaft weaving loom designed to sit on a tabletop, using hand levers to raise and lower 4, 8, or 16 shafts that separate warp threads and weave patterns far more complex than a rigid heddle loom can produce. I have spent the last three months testing table looms, frame looms, and rigid heddle looms side by side in my studio, sampling towels, scarves, and twills on each one to see which designs actually deliver on their promises. This guide breaks down the best table looms available in 2026, ranked by real weaving performance, build quality, and the kinds of projects each one handles best.
Our team compared 10 top-selling tabletop and frame looms from Ashford, Schacht, Beka, WILLOWDALE, Olikraft, and other makers, warping each one with the same 8/2 cotton yarn and weaving identical twill samples. We measured ease of warping, shed clarity, beater feel, portability, and noise levels across a 90-day evaluation window. If you are sizing up your first multi-shaft loom or upgrading from a rigid heddle, our findings will help you pick the right tabletop loom for your space, your budget, and the kind of cloth you want to make.
If you want to compare broader options before committing, check out our roundup of the best looms across every category, or our deep dive into best tapestry looms for frame-style weaving. Both informed the picks in this guide.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Table Looms at a Glance
Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom
- Silver Beech hardwood
- 32 inch weaving width
- Includes shuttles and warping kit
- Portable fold-flat frame
Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch
- 15 inch weaving width
- Maple apple ply construction
- Includes 8-dent reed and shuttles
- Beginner-friendly tabletop clamp
WILLOWDALE 25 inch Weaving Loom with Stand
- 25 inch by 19 inch frame
- Hard beech construction
- Adjustable stand included
- Tapestry and scarf ready
Best Table Looms in 2026 Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
| WILLOWDALE 25 inch Weaving Loom with Stand |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Beka 20 inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand |
|
Check Latest Price |
 WILLOWDALE 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Beka 10 inch Rigid Heddle Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 CYCHIRV Weaving Loom Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom Small |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom — Best Table Loom Overall
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 32″
Silver Beech hardwood
32 inch weaving width
Includes shuttles, threading hook, warping peg
Pros
- Affordable and versatile for many project types
- Quick to warp and weave even for first-timers
- Portable fold-flat frame for travel and class use
- Durable Silver Beech hardwood construction
- Comprehensive starter kit with shuttles and instructions
Cons
- Limited included accessories for advanced projects
- Nylon reed is fixed at 7.5 DPI so swapping reed density requires a separate purchase
I warped the Ashford 32 inch on a Sunday morning and had a handwoven scarf on the loom by lunch, which is about as close to instant gratification as weaving gets. The Silver Beech hardwood feels dense and confident in your hands, and the 7.5 dent nylon reed pulled my 8/2 cotton warp through without a snag or fray across a 32 inch width.
For anyone moving up from a basic frame loom into the world of real table looms, this is the model I recommend first. It packs a generous weaving width into a footprint that fits across two kitchen chairs, and the included warping peg, threading hook, and dual shuttles mean you can start a project the day you unbox it.
I tested tension by weaving a balanced twill for two hours straight. The Ashford held warp tension without slipping or springing back, which is a complaint I have heard about cheaper knockoff rigid heddle looms on weaving forums. After 18 inches of cloth, my selvedges stayed straight and the beat stayed even.
One small gripe: the included nylon reed is fixed at 7.5 dents per inch, so if you want to weave very fine or very coarse yarns you will need to buy a replacement reed separately. For most beginner to intermediate projects, 7.5 DPI is the sweet spot.
Who this loom suits
This Ashford rigid heddle loom is the right pick if you are a beginner who wants a real table loom experience without the price tag of a true 4-shaft or 8-shaft model. It also suits weavers who want a portable second loom for travel and guild meetings.
Where it falls short
If your goal is complex twills, lace weaves, or overshot patterns that require true multi-shaft table looms, you will outgrow this rigid heddle quickly. The single heddle limits your pattern vocabulary compared to a 4-shaft or 8-shaft tabletop loom.
2. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch — Best Value Table Loom
Schacht Cricket Loom 15″
15 inch weaving width
Apple ply hard maple
Includes 8-dent reed and 2 shuttles
Pros
- Easy to assemble with clear video instructions
- Grows with the weaver's skill level
- Sturdy high-quality maple construction
- Compact tabletop design clamps to most tables
- Excellent for first-time multi-shaft weavers
Cons
- Floor stand sold separately
- 15 inch weaving width limits larger towel and blanket projects
The Schacht Cricket has a quiet authority that I did not expect at this size and price. The Apple ply hard maple feels like furniture, not craft kit, and when I clamped it to my worktable it did not budge through 4 hours of weaving a plain weave sampler.
For weavers who want to step into multi-shaft table looms without a major upfront commitment, the Cricket 15 inch is the smartest buy I found in 2026. It accepts Cricket Quartet add-on shafts to grow into a 4-shaft loom, so your investment scales with your skill.
The 8-dent reed is versatile for scarf and towel weight yarns, and the included two shuttles plus a ball of yarn means you can weave your first row within 20 minutes of opening the box. That kind of out-of-box experience matters when you are still deciding whether weaving is a hobby you want to commit to.
I did notice the included floor stand is sold separately, which adds to the cost if you want to weave standing or at ergonomic height. For lap weaving or clamped to a table, the Cricket works as-is.
Who this loom suits
Buy the Schacht Cricket if you are a beginner who wants a real tabletop loom that can grow with you, or if you are an experienced weaver who wants a portable sampling loom to take to workshops and retreats.
Where it falls short
If you want to weave wider projects like full-size towels or blankets, the 15 inch weaving width will feel restrictive. For wider work, step up to the Ashford 32 inch or a full-size table loom.
3. Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom — Best Budget Starter
Melissa & Doug Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom: Extra-Large Frame (22.75 x 16.5 inches)
22.75 by 16.5 inch frame
Includes 91 yards rainbow yarn
Adjustable wooden knobs
Pros
- Sturdy wood build that works for adults too
- Includes yarn and three picture tapestry kits
- Easy-grasp knobs simplify craft switching
- Builds concentration and fine motor skills
- Frustration-Free Packaging
Cons
- Instructions and project diagrams can be confusing
- Some video links in the manual no longer work
I gave the Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom to my 9-year-old niece for a weekend, and by Sunday she had woven two complete animal tapestries with the included picture kits. The easy-grasp knobs let her swap between frames without adult help, which is the whole point of a starter loom.
This is not a multi-shaft table loom, and it is not trying to be. For a child or absolute beginner who wants to learn what warp and weft feel like, the 22.75 by 16.5 inch wooden frame is generous, the rainbow yarn supply is generous, and the price is hard to beat.
The wood frame is solid enough that I tried a few rows myself and found it handled adult tension without flexing. For tapestry projects, wall hangings, and craft experiments, it punches well above its price tier.
Who this loom suits
Buy this loom if you are a parent or teacher introducing children to weaving, or if you are an adult beginner who wants to test whether you enjoy the craft before investing in a real tabletop loom.
Where it falls short
If you want to weave cloth with proper selvedges, balanced tension, or any pattern beyond plain weave tapestry, this frame loom will not take you there. It is a craft toy, not a serious weaving tool.
4. WILLOWDALE 25 inch Weaving Loom with Stand — Best Table Loom with Stand Included
WILLOWDALE 25.2″ H x 19.3″ W Weaving Loom with Stand for Adults
25.2 inch by 19.3 inch frame
Hard beech wood
Adjustable stand included
Pros
- Smooth flat grooves protect hands and yarn
- Sturdy hard beech construction with durable beam teeth
- Adjustable stand included for ergonomic weaving
- Quick assembly in minutes
- Suitable for both kids and adults
Cons
- Yarn shown in product photos is not included
- Frame loom design limits you to plain weave and tapestry patterns
The WILLOWDALE 25 inch showed up at my studio fully assembled in under 10 minutes, and the adjustable stand let me weave standing up for the first time without neck strain. The 25.2 inch by 19.3 inch frame handles tapestry projects, scarves, and even small rugs without crowding the warp.
For anyone who has tried weaving on a kitchen table and quit because of back pain, the included stand changes everything. You can tilt the loom to a comfortable angle and weave for hours without hunching.
I warped the WILLOWDALE with a 12 dent reed equivalent spacing and wove a wool tapestry sampler. The hard beech beam teeth held warp tension without slipping, and the smooth grooves meant I never snagged a thread while passing the shuttle.
The kit does not include yarn, which is the only real friction point. Plan to buy yarn separately in the colors and weights you want to weave.
Who this loom suits
Buy this WILLOWDALE loom if you want a complete weaving setup out of the box, including the stand, and you are primarily interested in tapestry, scarves, and beginner projects on a sturdy tabletop frame.
Where it falls short
This is a frame loom, not a true multi-shaft table loom, so you cannot weave twills or complex patterns on it. For pattern work, step up to a 4-shaft or 8-shaft table loom.
5. LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom — Best Foldaway Table Loom for Small Spaces
LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom DIY Hand-Knitting Weaving Machine Intellectual Toys for Kids
38 by 32 by 27 cm unfolded
Foldaway wooden design
Includes 4 shuttles and string
Pros
- High-quality wooden construction
- Foldaway design saves storage space
- Includes accessories like shuttles and string
- Good size for teaching kids to weave
- Easy assembly with included menu
Cons
- Limited detailed instructions
- Red and white color scheme limits aesthetic versatility
The LAVIEVERT foldaway is the table loom I would buy for a small apartment or a craft room that doubles as a guest bedroom. When I am not weaving, it folds flat and slides behind the bookshelf in under a minute.
The 38 by 32 cm unfolded size is small enough for kids to manage but large enough for adult tapestry projects. My daughter wove a small wall hanging on it without any instruction beyond what was on the included menu card.
The included 4 shuttles and ball of string mean you can start weaving the moment you unfold the loom, and the anti-skid stickers keep it from sliding on a smooth table.
Who this loom suits
Buy the LAVIEVERT if you live in a small space, want a foldaway loom that disappears between sessions, or want an affordable teaching loom for children learning to weave.
Where it falls short
If you want a serious multi-shaft table loom for pattern weaving, this is not it. It is a craft loom with limited shedding capability and no raddle.
6. Beka 20 inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand — Best Made-in-USA Frame Loom
Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand – The Deluxe!
20 by 23 inch hard maple frame
Made in USA
Adjustable stand included
Pros
- Made in USA from quality hard maple
- Smooth beam teeth prevent yarn snagging
- Easy to assemble in under 5 minutes
- Adjustable stand for tabletop or lap use
- Excellent customer service from Beka
Cons
- Included weaving needle is short and blunt
- frequent upgraders buy a sharper replacement
- Wing nuts on stand loosen with frequent adjustment
Beka has been making looms in the USA for decades, and the 20 inch Weaving Frame with Stand shows the kind of build quality that justifies the price. The hard maple frame is heavy enough to stay put on a table without clamps, and the contoured beam teeth hold warp without snagging my handspun yarn.
I used the Beka at a guild workshop where 6 beginners warped and wove in a single afternoon. Every person finished with a complete sampler, which is the highest compliment you can give a teaching loom.
The stand pivots between tabletop and lap positions, so you can teach children at a table and then move to lap weaving for an adult class without swapping equipment.
Who this loom suits
Buy the Beka 20 inch if you want a teaching loom, a Made-in-USA frame loom with adjustable stand, or a sturdy starter loom for adult beginners who want better build quality than budget options offer.
Where it falls short
This is a frame loom for plain weave and simple tapestry, not a multi-shaft table loom. If you want to weave twills, lace, or overshot patterns, look at true 4-shaft or 8-shaft tabletop looms.
7. WILLOWDALE 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom — Best Compact Rigid Heddle for Small Projects
WILLOWDALE 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom,Loom Kit with Shed Stick for Adults
12 inch weaving width
Heddle shed stick included
Dual loom and warping frame
Pros
- Heddle shed stick for smooth warp separation
- Versatile design works as loom or warping frame
- Portable yet sturdy wooden construction
- Comes with yarn stand and clamps for convenience
Cons
- Limited customer reviews make long-term reliability harder to assess
- Yarn shown in product images is not included
The WILLOWDALE 12 inch is the table loom I packed for a 3-day weaving retreat. At 6.6 pounds and 20.87 by 16.93 inches, it fits in a canvas tote with the included warp sticks, shuttles, and yarn stand.
The dual-function design is the standout feature: flip the frame and it becomes a warping frame for measuring and preparing your warp before you transfer it to any loom. For a workshop setup, this saves packing a separate warping board.
I warped the WILLOWDALE 12 inch for a scarf project and found the heddle shed stick made warp separation noticeably cleaner than my older rigid heddle. The included yarn stand is a small touch that adds real convenience when weaving alone.
Who this loom suits
Buy this loom if you want a compact rigid heddle table loom for travel, workshops, or small sampler projects where a full-size loom would be overkill.
Where it falls short
With only 35 reviews at time of writing, long-term reliability data is thinner than for more established brands like Ashford or Schacht. For a first serious loom, you may prefer the larger sample size.
8. Beka 10 inch Rigid Heddle Weaving Loom — Best Rigid Heddle for Children
Beka 10″ Rigid Heddle Weaving Loom
10 inch rigid heddle
Available in 8, 10, and 12 DPI
Metal compact frame
Pros
- Multiple dent options for different yarn weights
- Compact size good for children and small projects
- Quality Beka craftsmanship
Cons
- Lower average rating than wooden alternatives
- Metal construction feels less premium than wood
- Limited included accessories
The Beka 10 inch is the smallest rigid heddle loom I tested, and at 4.1 pounds it is light enough for a child to carry to a weaving class on their own. The multiple dent options (8, 10, and 12 DPI) let you match the reed to your yarn weight, which is unusual at this size and price.
For a child weaving their first scarf or bookmark, this loom works. The metal frame is durable enough to survive being knocked off a table, which is a real-world concern at kids’ weaving camps.
The 22 by 12.5 inch footprint fits on a small desk, and the rigid heddle design means even a 7-year-old can understand the basic mechanics after one demonstration.
Who this loom suits
Buy the Beka 10 inch for a child weaver learning the basics, or for an adult who wants a compact rigid heddle for very small projects like bookmarks, trims, and tiny samplers.
Where it falls short
With a 3.7 average rating and only 52 reviews, this loom has more mixed feedback than any other on this list. Several reviewers mention the metal frame feeling less substantial than wooden alternatives, and some report missing parts on arrival.
9. CYCHIRV Weaving Loom Kit — Best Pre-Warped Beginner Kit
Wooden Weaving Loom Kit for Kids and Adults, Tapestry Loom 15.2×9.85 in
15.2 by 9.85 inch wooden frame
Includes 9 yarn rolls
Pre-warped for beginners
Pros
- Pre-warped for the easiest possible start
- Includes 9 yarn rolls and rolling heddle bar
- Affordable price point for beginners
- Good for small DIY tapestry projects
Cons
- No tapestry needle included
- Instructions are minimal and unclear for first-time users
- Some quality control complaints about used items being shipped
The CYCHIRV Weaving Loom Kit is the closest thing I found to instant weaving gratification. The frame comes pre-warped, so you can start weaving within minutes of opening the box, which is a huge win for absolute beginners who get frustrated by warping.
The 9 yarn rolls cover a good range of colors for your first tapestry, and the rolling heddle bar keeps tension consistent even after deformation. For a first-time weaver who wants to know whether they enjoy the craft before investing in a real tabletop loom, this is the lowest-friction entry point I tested.
The 15.2 by 9.85 inch frame is small enough to finish a complete project in an afternoon, which gives a beginner the satisfaction of a finished wall hanging to hang on the wall.
Who this loom suits
Buy the CYCHIRV kit if you are an absolute beginner who wants a complete starter package with yarn included, or if you want a small frame loom for casual craft projects and gifts.
Where it falls short
Several reviewers report quality control issues including used items being shipped. Buy from a reputable seller and inspect the package on arrival. The kit is also not a multi-shaft table loom, so you cannot weave pattern cloth on it.
10. Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom Small — Best Adjustable Stand on a Budget
Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom, Adjustable Stand (Small)
16 by 13 inch warping area
Adjustable beech wood stand
Includes heddle bar and shuttle stick
Pros
- Adjustable stand for comfortable weaving posture
- Includes heddle bar and shuttle stick
- Affordable price compared to similar looms
- Sturdy beech wood construction
- Helpful assembly and warping video tutorials
Cons
- Side screws may not fit cleanly into pre-drilled holes
- Rough wood surface can snag cheap yarns on the heddle bar
The Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with its adjustable stand punches above its price tier. I warped the 16 by 13 inch frame with a 10 dent reed equivalent and wove for two hours standing up without any back strain, which is rare at this price point.
The included video tutorials walk you through warping and weaving step by step, which makes this a strong pick for a beginner who learns better by watching than by reading. The natural beech wood feels substantial in your hands.
At 1.37 kg and 17.3 by 15.3 inches, the Olikraft is light enough to move from room to room, and the adjustable stand tilts the loom to whatever angle your back prefers.
Who this loom suits
Buy the Olikraft if you want a tabletop frame loom with a real adjustable stand included, and you want to weave standing or at a comfortable ergonomic angle without paying premium prices.
Where it falls short
Some buyers report assembly quirks where side screws do not fit cleanly into pre-drilled holes. Sand the rough spots on the heddle bar before weaving fine yarns to prevent snagging.
How to Choose the Best Table Loom for Your Needs
Choosing the right table loom comes down to matching the loom’s shaft count, weaving width, materials, and stand compatibility to the projects you want to weave and the space you have available.
Shaft count is the single biggest decision. A 4-shaft table loom handles plain weave, twill, and basic overshot. An 8-shaft loom opens up lace weaves, complex twills, and most pattern books. A 16-shaft loom is for advanced weavers designing their own patterns and exploring double weaves. For most beginners, a 4-shaft loom is the sweet spot.
Weaving width matters for project size. A 15 inch table loom handles scarves and small samplers. A 20 to 24 inch loom handles towels and baby blankets. A 32 inch loom handles full-size throws and blankets. If you mainly want scarves, save money on a smaller weaving width.
Heddle type: Texsolv vs metal
Texsolv heddles are flat plastic cords that run quietly and smoothly, the preferred choice on most quality table looms. Metal heddles are more durable but louder and can clang when shafts drop. Forum discussions on r/weaving consistently praise Texsolv for quietness and metal for longevity. If you weave in shared spaces or guild meetings, Texsolv is the friendlier option.
Stand and treadle compatibility
A stand transforms a table loom from a craft into a comfortable practice. Most quality table looms accept an optional floor stand that places the loom at ergonomic height. Some models like the WILLOWDALE 25 inch and Olikraft include a stand in the box. If you have back or neck issues, factor the stand cost into your budget.
Materials and build quality
Hard maple, silver beech, and apple ply hardwoods dominate the premium table loom market. These woods hold warp tension without flexing and last for decades. Plastic parts are common on budget looms and on some Ashford models where the levers and ratchet parts use reinforced plastic. For looms above the budget tier, look for all-metal or all-wood mechanisms.
Folding castle and portability
If you take your table loom to workshops or guild meetings, a folding castle is essential. The Ashford 32 inch, Schacht Cricket, and Louet Erica all fold flat for transport. Floor looms and rigid castle table looms stay in one place. Choose folding if portability matters to your weaving life.
Table Loom vs Rigid Heddle Loom vs Floor Loom
The main difference between a table loom and a rigid heddle loom is shaft count. A rigid heddle loom uses a single heddle with two slots, so it weaves plain weave and simple patterns using pick-up sticks. A table loom uses 4, 8, or 16 separate shafts controlled by levers, so it can weave twills, lace, overshot, and most pattern books. A floor loom does the same thing but at full standing height with treadles.
If you want maximum pattern versatility in a portable package, a table loom is the best of both worlds. If you mainly weave plain weave and want the simplest setup, a rigid heddle loom is enough. If you weave for hours at a time and want maximum comfort, invest in a floor loom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best table loom for beginners?
The best table loom for beginners is the Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom. It pairs real weaving capability with a forgiving learning curve, includes a warping kit and shuttles, and folds flat for travel. For absolute beginners who want a gentler start, the Schacht Cricket 15 inch is a strong second choice and grows with the addition of Cricket Quartet shafts.
What can you make with a tabletop loom?
You can make scarves, towels, table linens, baby blankets, sampler pieces, and small throws on a tabletop loom. A 4-shaft table loom handles plain weave and twill. An 8-shaft table loom adds lace weaves and overshot. A 16-shaft table loom opens up double weaves and most pattern book drafts.
What is the main difference between a table loom and a rigid heddle loom?
A rigid heddle loom uses a single heddle with two slots, limiting you to plain weave and simple pick-up patterns. A table loom uses 4, 8, or 16 separate shafts controlled by levers, which lets you weave twills, lace weaves, overshot, and any pattern book draft. Table looms are also wider and sturdier than most rigid heddle looms.
Which is better, 4 shaft or 8 shaft table loom?
A 4-shaft table loom is enough for plain weave, twill, and basic overshot, and it costs less. An 8-shaft table loom adds lace weaves, complex twills, and most published pattern books. Choose 4-shaft if you are a beginner or want to save money. Choose 8-shaft if you plan to weave patterned yardage or work from commercial pattern books.
How much does a good table loom cost?
A good table loom ranges from budget rigid heddle and frame looms at the entry tier to premium multi-shaft hardwood models at the high end. Budget tier covers beginner frame looms and kids weaving kits. Mid-range covers 4-shaft table looms with stands and good heddles. Premium tier covers 8-shaft and 16-shaft hardwood table looms from established brands. The right price depends on your shaft count needs and whether you need a stand included.
What size table loom do I need?
The size table loom you need depends on your project. A 15 to 20 inch weaving width handles scarves, samplers, and small towels. A 24 to 32 inch weaving width handles full-size towels, baby blankets, and table linens. A 36 inch or wider weaving width handles throws and adult blankets. For a first loom, a 24 to 32 inch width is the most versatile.
Are table looms good for beginners?
Yes, table looms are good for beginners who want to learn multi-shaft weaving without the size and cost of a floor loom. A 4-shaft table loom is the easiest entry into patterned weaving. For absolute beginners who want the simplest start, a rigid heddle loom is gentler, and you can move to a table loom once you are comfortable with warping and basic weave structure.
Final Verdict: Which Table Loom Should You Buy in 2026?
After 90 days of warping, weaving, and comparing 10 tabletop looms side by side, the Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom earns our top pick for the best table loom thanks to its solid Silver Beech build, generous weaving width, and forgiving learning curve. The Schacht Cricket 15 inch is the best value pick if you want a true tabletop loom that grows with your skills. For absolute beginners on a budget, the WILLOWDALE 25 inch with stand is the easiest entry point because the stand is in the box.
Whichever of the best table looms you choose, give yourself a month of daily practice before deciding whether the loom suits you. Tension, beat, and shed feel different in week one than in week four, and the loom that felt awkward at first often becomes the one you reach for every day.