It’s easy to fall in love with patterns and designs woven by skilled hands.
If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at some creative crafts, a weaving loom is a great place to start.
When you invest in a weaving loom, it’s easy to make stunning creations right at your table.
With a loom, you can lose yourself for hours in a project, marveling at how it comes together with each fiber.
Or, if you’re pressed for time, the very design of a loom allows you to step away from the project without losing your place. That’s the beauty of a weaving loom—you always work at your own pace.
And, unlike knitting or crocheting, weaving usually offers an easy start point, and beginners will delight in every step of this absorbing craft.
It may be simple to get started, but weaving still allows you to make lovely items for your family and friends.
There’s also no limit to what you can create using a weaving loom, from gorgeous scarves to practical potholders, and much more.
Now, whether you’re a seasoned weaver or new to the craft, take a look at our selection of the best weaving looms below.
Table of Contents
- 1 Table of Contents
- 2 Quick Comparison Table!
- 3 The Best Weaving Looms For The Money
- 5 #2 Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand - Premium Pick
- 6 #3 Wool Novelty 413L Deluxe Hand Weaving Loom - Most Durable
- 7 #4 Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - Ideal for Rug Weaving
- 8 #5 Willowdale Standing Weaving Loom - Handy Model for Adults/ Teens
- 9 Our Buying Guide
- 10 Wrap Up: Our Choice
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison Table!
The Best Weaving Looms For The Money
#1 Melissa & Doug Weaving Loom - EDITOR'S CHOICE
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Our top pick, the Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom, is a child-friendly option and incredibly easy to use, thus perfect for beginners.
It presents the perfect option for those who value creativity in their craft and will definitely catch your eye at first sight. You’ll also fall in love with its performance and how simple it is to use.
Features and Benefits
Starter kit
As we mentioned in the introduction, the Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom is the perfect primer for young but eager crafters.
It’s effortless to use and an exciting craft tool for kids.
This starter kit helps promote different cognitive skills in children, such as improving concentration, fine motor skills, and hand-to-eye coordination.
Large frame
There are numerous reasons why weavers will love this loom, but the frame is my favorite feature.
TheMelissa and Doug Weaving Loom has a larger than average frame, measuring 22.75” by 16.5”, which provides ample space to work on fabric and tapestries.
The larger frame also makes it easier for kids to work on bigger projects as their skills continue to advance.
My only complaint about the loom is there’s no way to set it up to do longer pieces than the frame size allows.
However, for the frame size, it’s still possible to make some wonderful long pieces, including adult-sized scarves.
Adjustable frame
Though the frame’s size limits how long your pieces can be, it’s adjustable to allow the creation of smaller weaving projects.
The top bar of the frame has adjustable knobs on each side, giving you the flexibility to work on different project sizes using a single loom.
The frame’s flexibility also adds to the loom’s versatility, making it easier to practice different weaving techniques, including looping, tying, and color and texture change.
Although we like that the loom is adjustable, one complaint common across some users is they struggle to keep it level. It seems like when you tighten the bars, the feet can become a bit wobbly.
It’s not a deal-breaker, though, since sticking a matchbook under one foot easily stabilizes the loom.
Design
The Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom has grown in popularity, thanks to its looks, functionality, and ease of use.
In particular, youngsters will definitely be thrilled by how much this multi-craft loom gets their creative juices flowing.
For seasoned weavers, there is still a great deal you can choose to do with the loom, including creating scarves, purses, tasseled coasters, and drawstring pouches, to name but a few.
I love that it’s small enough to leave out on my home desk, yet large enough to perform some worthwhile tasks with a variety of yarns.
Speaking of yarns, some users claim that only worsted yarns can be used, but I disagree. The Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom is a versatile and accommodative option, and you only have to play around with the adjustment feature to thread the loom with a variety of materials.
For instance, I’ve managed to use two strands of white string to weave tighter and accommodate a smaller worst.
Easy to use
I thought a weaving loom would be a good idea to introduce to my daughter, and so far, everything has been fun.
The MelissaandDoug Weaving Loom is easy to use, with the presence of easy-grasp knobs making it simple to change the frame and swap over from craft to craft.
Also, the top and wooden bottom bars have a wooden guide, where little Natalie can hold the warp threads straight and firm, enabling her to weave easily.
When weaving, the yarns don’t get tangled, and it takes just a short time to create several rows.
Finally, the loom has an oversized wooden needle, making it easy to weave the weft thread.
Accessories
Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom included accessories are quite interesting.
You get a 91-yard rainbow colored yarn, an excellent extra that lets you start weaving immediately without needing to buy another thread.
The loom also includes 42 picture strips that can be used for weaving three picture tapestries, and this gives you a total of four craft options straight out of the box.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Promotes multiple skill development
- Sturdy
Cons
- Small opening between frame and dowel
#2 Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand - Premium Pick
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
4.6/5
4.3/5
4.6/5
Our runner up, the Beka loom with stand, is a loom that offers enough to satisfy both beginners and seasoned weavers.
The Beka is built with practicality in mind, and it delivers the features and functionalities that you’ve always wanted in a weaving loom.
Features and Benefits
Design
The Beka loom offers a sturdy design made with durable materials.
The folks at Beka understand that this unit will soon become an indispensable part of your kid’s life, so they’ve put together a design that will survive intense usage.
It’s a sturdy piece and will take the dings, knocks, and falls likes a champ.
Apartfrom the ruggedness, the loom is available in a gorgeous light wood finish; something that your kids will love.
Adjustable stand
We chose to include the Beka high up on our list because it’s propped up with an adjustable stand.
Few models, including the high-rated Melissa and Doug, have a stand to make the loom easier to deal with.
It also provides a good angle of view, not to mention it’s a lot more comfortable weaving with it on the stand.
The presence of a stand makes it comfortable for your kids to weave on a range of surfaces; you can place it on the table or sit on the floor—so it’s one less thing to mess with.
Non-adjustable frame
While it has a stand, the Beka lacks an adjustable frame, so it’s easy to think it’s a non-starter.
We also thought so to begin with, but we were surprised to find the loom works well even for long projects like scarves.
Of course, the loom is limited in the dimensions of what you can weave, but it’s possible to sew, knit, or crochet multiple projects together to make longer pieces.
While it’s not long enough for full larger projects, it’s perfect for making a 20″ x 23″ piece, though, again, as we mentioned earlier, you could sew pieces to make a longer item like a scarf or tablecloth.
Easy to use
In addition to all its awesome features, this loom is also portable and easy to assemble. It’s even simple for your kids to assemble the loom properly if you’re not around.
The Beka is well made, and the wood is nice and smooth with no splintering for yarn to catch on. Equally, the pickup stick is properly sanded down with no rough edges, and it functions well.
The loom is also accommodative and won’t require any specialized or fancy yarns to work with.
The Beka loom also comes with a set of clear instructions for setting up the unit, so you’ll never find the weaving process difficult.
However, for beginners, our advice is to get the largest loom possible because this way it’s easy to warp small areas to do smaller projects.
Accessories
The Beka comes with everything you need to begin your first weaving journey, including yarn and needles.
The only issue I had with the needle included in the kit is it’s only a foot long and thick. It becomes a challenge weaving through a tight wrap as the tip is rather blunt.
Pros
- Reliable
- Easy to use
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Large needle
#3 Wool Novelty 413L Deluxe Hand Weaving Loom - Most Durable
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
4.4/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
The Wool Novelty deluxe hand weaving loom is one of the most reliable products on our list, and, by extension, on the market today.
It goes a bit off-track in terms of construction compared with our previously reviewed items.
The all-metallic construction is durable and guarantees a loom that can withstand anything you throw at it without breaking.
How about the weaving performance?
It doesn’t skimp on this either; it’s easy to use, and weavers will have an uncomplicated time creating gorgeous masterpieces to their liking.
Features and Benefits
Full-metallic construction
The loom itself is metallic, which means you get a durable product that can endure occasional falls, knocks, and rough handling.
When it comes to performance, the Wool’s metal loom is superior by far to plastic looms which tend to bend out of alignment if the loops are at all tight.
Its ruggedness makes it a perfect option for clumsy kids or even a reliable travel option.
Portable
At first sight, you won’t fail to notice the small size of this weaving loom. It has a small frame measuring 7.8-inches square, which makes it portable.
It’s easy to carry the loom to your place of work, your summer camp, or even your grandmas and continue weaving during your free time.
For me, the portability is not only about convenience, it also allows me to experience many hours of cumulative fun even when I switch locations.
And, make no mistake; the small size doesn’t compromise the performance in any way.
For the size, the Wool Novelty has many weaving uses besides making potholders or trivets.
It’s very much like our previously reviewed items with larger frames, only that with this option, you won’t feel overwhelmed by trying to manage the size.
Of course, it’s a bit larger than my laptop, but the smaller stature offers an easy way to learn how to weave.
Easy to use
TheWool Novelty is a delight to use, especially for kids and beginners.
The loom has a thread guide on all four sides, which, besides guiding the thread, lets you tie the warp thread firmly to avoid sagging.
Also, unlike wood, the metallic construction is super smooth, with no splintering risk for your yarn to catch on.
Metallic hook
The Wool Novelty’s metallic hooks are also heavy-duty, and I find them particularly handy for jersey loop weaving.
The hook makes it easy to weave the weft thread onto the warp thread, yet is still challenging if you decide to use your hands on a really small surface area.
Compared with the wooden accessories of other weaving looms, the hook is ultra-strong and will last for a long time.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Affordable
Cons
- Not versatile for the projects it can make
#4 Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - Ideal for Rug Weaving
If you need the perfect loom for rug weaving, you can’t go wrong with the Ashford Heddle Loom.
This option comes with a nylon reed, which perfect for a rug.
And, not only that, it also has some amazing features and a fantastic performance that will allow you to enjoy every moment with the loom.
Features and Benefits
Heddle design
Ashford’s rigid heddle design is perfect for hand weaving. The design is versatile, too, allowing users to create beautiful gifts and homeware.
Even better, the Ashford has the option of adding a second heddle kit to allow weaving using multiple shafts. And the good thing is that there are numerous videos online to show you how to do this.
It’s by far the widest rigid loom from Ashford, and it’s constructed to create pieces up to 32 inches. While your project can’t be any wider than 32″, the Ashford still allows you to warp your desired project length, so it’s easy to create a good variety of items.
The loom is also heavy and sturdy enough to accommodate rugged fabrics and projects such as denim rugs from old blue jeans. The challenge with weaving rugged projects is beating it down, so you should weave in small strips of denim.
In terms of build quality, the silver beech hardwood makes the loom quite sturdy and capable of handling tension from the warp threads.
Nylon reed
The Ashford comes complete with a 7.5 dpi nylon reed that is suitable for creating moderately textured fabrics from multiple layers.
While the 7.5 nylon reed is great for standard weaving, you also have the option of using 10, 12, or 15 dpi reeds for a finer weave for dish towels, for example.
Either way, the different pieces make it easy for weavers to create a wide range of fine or textured fabrics.
Accessories
Along with nylon reeds, the Ashford is also accessorized with a warping peg containing a clamp that can be fastened onto a table edge.
The loom itself has a clamp, and the length set between it and the peg will determine the length of the warps, and, consequently, the size of your projects.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Plenty of accessories
- Portable
Cons
- Can be a bit challenging to set up
#5 Willowdale Standing Weaving Loom - Handy Model for Adults/ Teens
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
4.2/5
4.6/5
4/5
The Willowdale Standing Loom is a fantastic option; perfect for weavers who value creativity.
It’s also a reliable choice and will allow you to create professional-level craft with the least effort, even if you have limited knowledge about weaving.
But, is it the right option for you?
Features and Benefits
Flat groove
The Willowdale Standing Loom is designed with a flat, smooth groove, helping you avoid damage.
It’s also safe and will reduce the risk of abrasion of the wool during the weaving process.
When it comes to the construction quality, the Willowdale Standing Loom doesn’t disappoint either. The hard beech wood, featuring extremely durable teeth, is sturdy and will last through many projects.
Stand
As with the Beka loom we have reviewed above, the Willowdale Standing Loom comes with a traditional stand that allows you to work comfortably.
Additionally, the stand makes it easy to use the loom on different surfaces, including high up on the table or on a flat floor surface.
It’s adjustable, too, so you can move the loom’s height as you work on your project.
Ease of use
It only takes a few minutes to set up the weaving kit, and you can quickly begin working, moving the shuttle back and forth.
Laying the yarn onto the frame is a doddle, and, with a few simple movements, you can get started with your weaving.
Accessories
The Willowdale Standing Loom is accessorized with a host of add-ons including a side frame, heddle bar, combs, and so much more.
It also comes with the different nuts and combs you need to construct the frame.
Pros
- Exquisite craftsmanship
- Easy to assemble
- Reliable weaving
Cons
- Tad expensive
Our Buying Guide
Selecting the best weaving loom for your project can be a little challenging, especially for beginners.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a definitive weaving loom buying guide to help with the selection process.
But, before I share the factors to consider in your selection, let’s first look at the different types of weaving looms.
Types of Looms
Rigid heddle loom
Rigid heddle looms are great beginner options for people looking to learn to weave without spending too much time.
They also offer a lot in terms of patterning to the seasoned weaver by manipulating the warp and weft.
The rigid loom is designed to allow the weaving of light works like shawls, scarves, placemats, dish towels, and clothing fabrics.
Backstrap loom
The backstrap loom has a traditional loom design but is still used even in modern-day weaving.
On this loom, the warp is tied around a stationary object on one end.
It allows skilled weavers to produce beautiful and complex patterns.
Tapestry loom
The tapestry loom offers the most personalized weaving.
It is among the simplest looms and works by continuously holding a wrap under tension, allowing the weaver to see all the warps in operation at once.
Inkle loom
Inkle looms are ideal for weaving narrow strips of fabrics such as straps, bands, and belts.
They’re also great beginner options considering they require minimal equipment to work, are easy to understand, and can be stored away more easily than most others.
Floor loom
Floor looms are the largest of the home weaver’s looms.
They’re freestanding options and ideal for weaving larger projects such as the longer and wider pieces of fabric, home linens, accessories, and rugs.
However, they also take up a large area of space and are commonly used by commercial weavers.
Table loom
Table looms are also on the bigger side and require more space, but not so much as floor looms.
However, table looms are more complex than other small looms in the list.
As their name suggests, they’re designed for use on top of a table or a stand.
While it’s possible to get a loom with more than eight shafts, the most common types have either four or eight.
Hand loom
Hand looms are yet another of the oldest types of loom on the market.
They’re available in a vertically twist-weighted type and have their weft threads manually shoved into place.
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Weaving Loom
Now that we know about the different types of looms in the market, consider the below factors to consider when purchasing your next weaving loom.
Skill level
The first consideration you want to make is your weaving skill level.
Are you an experienced weaver or a beginner?
If you’re just starting and are unsure whether or not weaving will stick as one of your hobbies, you may want to consider a smaller loom.
On the other hand, if you already love weaving then you should feel comfortable investing in a large or even more complex weaving loom such as a table loom.
Space for equipment
It’s a good idea to consider how much space you can allocate for a loom and equipment.
Space is particularly of the essence if you plan to use a floor loom since it has a large footprint.
Ease of use
Like many other things, weaving looms are available in different difficulty levels, so you want to choose an option matching your level of expertise for whatever job is at hand.
Beginners’ options and weaving looms for kids should be easy to configure and usually come with an operating manual to ease set up and usage.
As an expert, however, you can choose a loom with more advanced features to enable more creativity with your work.
Weave functions
The weave function determines how far you can go with your weaving loom.
If your loom has an integrated weave function, it becomes easier to create complex and fancy designs.
Machine power
Of course, professionals want to be guaranteed that their machine has sufficient power to survive difficult weaving tasks.
Since you’ll probably go to weave several threads together into layers of fabrics, you want to be sure your machine has sufficient power to complete the task for you.
Pick an option that can create multiple layers with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What practical thing can I make using a weaving loom?
A: You can make many things using a loom, including rugs, hats, baskets, drapes, curtains, seat covers, and hose cables.
Q: What’s the best way to learn how to weave?
A: You can learn how to weave in several ways.
You can start by consulting experienced weavers and have them teach you.
Alternatively, you can learn weaving by watching online tutorials.
In our opinion, the most effective way of learning how to weave is signing up for online weaving courses.
Wrap Up: Our Choice
Our list consists of some fantastic options, but, if we were to recommend a single product it would be the Melissa and Doug Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom.
The Melissa and Doug ticks all the boxes for the best weaving loom.
It’s easy to use, performance-oriented, and will help sharpen your young ones’ cognitive skills.
The loom also comes at a friendly price, especially considering what it offers.
It’s durable too, and will survive rough usage, even by kids.
Overall, this loom has everything you need for successful weaving.
An avid Skier, bike rider, triathlon enthusiast, amateurish beach volleyball player and nature lover who has never lost a dare! I manage the overall Editorial section for the magazine here and occasionally chip in with my own nature photographs, when required.
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SandraTee
9 months ago
I got the Melissa & Doug loom for my niece last Christmas, and it was a hit! It’s sturdy, easy for her to figure out, and she loves the accessories it came with. Makes me think, maybe it’s time I upgraded my own setup 😉
CraftyKen_1982
9 months ago
Anyone tried the Beka weaving frame with younger kids? Mine are 8 and 10, and I’m thinking it could be a great rainy-day activity. Just not sure if it’d be too complex for them.
WeaveWizard
Reply to CraftyKen_1982
3 months ago
Hey CraftyKen_1982, the Beka loom is pretty user-friendly. With a bit of guidance, your kids should be able to pick it up quickly. It’s a solid choice for a family craft!
LoomLover99
8 months ago
Absolutely adore the Wool Novelty loom! Its durability is unmatched and it’s perfect for all my travel weaving projects. Nothing beats crafting on the go!
Tess
8 months ago
Is the Melissa & Doug loom good for beginners? I’m really new to this and want something not too complicated to start with.
TheYarnYogi
8 months ago
There’s something deeply meditative about weaving. I’ve been using the Ashford loom for my rug projects, and it truly is a tool that brings a sense of tranquility and accomplishment with each weave. Crafting not only allows for creative expression but also acts as a mindful escape from the daily hustle.
FibersAndFun
8 months ago
Interesting roundup! I’ve worked with 4 out of the 5 looms listed and have to agree with your Editor’s Choice. The Melissa & Doug loom is fantastic for those just dipping their toes into weaving. I’m excited to check out the Willowdale model, though; it’s the only one I haven’t tried yet.
danielle_k
7 months ago
been looking for a new hobby, the willowdale standing loom sounds perfect for me. easy to use is key when you got little time like me
JThreadz
7 months ago
which loom would be best on a tight budget but still decent for a beginner? any recs appreciated!
WarpWeftWorld
7 months ago
For those interested in rug weaving, the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom’s nylon reed option provides excellent tension control, which is crucial for such projects. Remember, the success of rug weaving often hinges on the loom’s ability to provide consistent and adjustable tension.
lily_looms
6 months ago
To anyone just getting started, the Melissa & Doug loom is a dream. It’s what got me seriously into weaving. Plus, it’s pretty affordable and comes with everything you need.
83Sheepish
6 months ago
Got my start on a hand-me-down Beka loom and never looked back! It’s amazing what you can create with some yarn and a bit of patience. Thinking of upgrading, but the Beka has a special place in my heart.
FabricFiddler
6 months ago
Lisa Hayden-Matthews has once again delivered a splendid article. The Wool Novelty loom’s full-metallic construction has caught my eye, especially since durability is a non-negotiable for me. Thank you for this comprehensive guide!
ZStitcher
5 months ago
I’m digging the details on the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom for my textile designs project. Does anyone know if it’s easy to source extra accessories for it? I’m thinking of expanding beyond the basics.
threaded_pathways
5 months ago
In our rapidly digitalizing world, there’s a certain charm and grounding effect found in the tactile nature of weaving. Each of these looms, from the simple starter sets to the more advanced models, offers a portal back to a slower, more deliberate way of living. The act of weaving, the rhythm, and the focus it demands is in itself a form of resistance against the pace of modern life.
WoollyWonders
4 months ago
We stock the Ashford Rigid Heddle Looms and accessories in our shop, and they are a customer favorite for rug weaving! Anyone looking to dive deeper into weaving or expand their skills, feel free to drop by WoollyWonders for a demo.
AndyCrafts
4 months ago
this list is awesome! got my eye on the willowdale loom, looks like it could add some serious zen to my after hours.
AJ_Knits
4 months ago
how does the beka 20″ frame compare to the wool novelty for beginners? can’t decide which to start with.
loom_legend
3 months ago
Fascinating selection of looms, each with its unique features and benefits. The tapestry loom, in particular, has a rich history that dates back centuries. It’s incredible to see how modern versions maintain the essence of those used by ancient weavers while incorporating new technologies to enhance the user experience.
StitchSavvy
3 months ago
If you’re just getting started, like I was last year, the Melissa & Doug weaving loom is an excellent choice. It’s straightforward and comes with everything you need. I’ve already made several scarves and placemats as gifts. Highly recommend for anyone looking to dive into weaving without feeling overwhelmed.
Why Trust Us?At HobbyKraze, we're passionate about helping you have the best hobby experience possible. Our team of experts researches, tests, and evaluates all product gear across various categories, providing reliable, unbiased, and informative reviews to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Our reviews are based on hands-on testing, research, analysis of customer feedback and everyday expertise, where required. We continuously update our reviews based on changes in product availability or new information to ensure that you're getting the most up-to-date recommendations
- November 14, 2023
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