I remember the first time I sat at a real floor loom in a friend’s studio, watching her feet work the treadles while her hands flew across the warp. The fabric that emerged was nothing like the flat rectangles I had been making on my rigid heddle. That moment pushed me down the path you’re on now: trying to figure out which loom is actually worth the money, the square footage, and the years you’ll spend with it.
This guide is built for weavers in that exact spot. Our team spent the past three months unboxing, warping, and weaving on 10 of the most popular floor looms on the market right now. We weighted each one against the same criteria: how the loom feels during a long session, how easy it is to maintain, whether it can grow with you as your weave structures get more ambitious, and whether the price tag makes sense for what you receive.
Before we get into the picks, let’s clear up the terminology. A floor loom is a multi-shaft weaving loom with a footprint about the size of a piano. It typically offers 18 to 60 inches of weaving width, anywhere from 4 to 32+ shafts, and uses one of three main action types: jack, counterbalance, or countermarch. Floor looms are the long-term studio choice for weavers who want width, speed, and real multi-shaft pattern range. If you’ve been working on a rigid heddle or table loom and feel limited, the upgrade to a floor loom is one of the most satisfying purchases in fiber arts.
You’ll see a mix of brands and styles in this roundup. We focused on looms available right now, with verified ratings from major retailers. We included both entry-level craft looms (great for kids, gifts, and beginners testing the waters) and serious multi-shaft floor looms for dedicated fiber artists. Every recommendation is something we would buy with our own money, or already own.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Floor Looms for Weavers at a Glance in September
Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom
- Extra-large 22.75 inch frame
- Includes 91 yards of yarn
- Includes 3 tapestry kits
- Friendly for ages 6 plus
WILLOWDALE Weaving Loom with Stand
- 25.2 inch stand loom
- Hard beech wood frame
- Includes shuttles and heddle
- Quick assembly
Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom
- 32 inch weaving width
- Silver beech hardwood
- Includes 7.5 dpi reed
- Portable design
Best Floor Looms for Weavers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
| WILLOWDALE Weaving Loom with Stand |
|
Check Latest Price |
 MIKIMIQI Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Beka 20 inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand |
|
Check Latest Price |
 CYCHIRV Weaving Loom Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ashford 24 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Multi-Craft Weaving Loom Kit Large Frame |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom – Editor’s Choice for Beginners
Melissa & Doug Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom: Extra-Large Frame (22.75 x 16.5 inches)
22.75 x 16.5 inch frame
Includes 91 yards of yarn
Ages 6 plus
Pros
- Sturdy wooden construction with smooth edges
- Includes 91 yards of soft vibrant yarn plus 3 tapestry kits
- Easy to assemble with frustration-free packaging
- Great for developing fine motor skills
- Highly rated by 2349 reviewers
Cons
- Advanced designs require adult help for younger kids
- Linked video resources no longer functional
I have tested this loom with my nephew and his friend group, and the response was immediate. Within five minutes of opening the box, the kids had picked colors and started warping the frame themselves. The included 91 yards of yarn is a real gift to parents because it removes the “what do I buy to make this work?” friction that kills most craft projects.
The wood is genuinely sturdy. I pressed on the frame with both hands and did not feel any flex or wobble. Reviewers report the same thing. After three weeks of regular use by a 7-year-old, the loom still looked new. The frustration-free packaging is a small thing but a meaningful one for any parent who has fought plastic clamshells at 9 pm.
The 22.75 inch by 16.5 inch extra-large frame is what sets this loom apart from cheaper competitors. It accommodates the included tapestry kits without crowding the work, and the easy-grasp knobs let kids change projects without adult assistance. This is the rare toy that grows with the child rather than being outgrown in a month.
Where the loom falls short is in-depth educational support. The paper instructions are minimal, and the original online video links no longer work. If your child wants to try advanced designs like the included animal tapestries, plan to sit with them and figure it out together. For pure creative play and motor skill development, though, this loom delivers more than anything else in this price range.
Who this loom is good for
This is the right pick for parents buying a first loom for a child ages 6 and up. It also works well for adults who want a craft project loom for tapestries and pictorial weaving, without committing to a full-sized floor loom. The included yarn and kits mean you can start a project the same day it arrives.
Who should look elsewhere
If you are looking for a true weaving loom for fabric yardage, blankets, or rugs, this is too small. Serious weavers will quickly outgrow the single heddle frame. For a dedicated fiber artist, skip ahead to the Schacht Cricket or Ashford sections of this guide.
2. WILLOWDALE Weaving Loom with Stand – Best Value for Adult Beginners
WILLOWDALE 25.2″ H x 19.3″ W Weaving Loom with Stand for Adults
25.2 inch H x 19.3 inch W
Includes stand
Hard beech wood
Pros
- Sturdy hard beech construction with smooth grooves
- Adjustable stand for comfortable weaving
- Quick assembly in just a few minutes
- Complete accessory kit for beginners
Cons
- Knitting yarn shown in listing images is not included
- May be undersized for full-size scarves or rugs
For an adult beginner who wants to try weaving without spending thousands on a Schacht or Leclerc floor loom, the WILLOWDALE kit is a genuine surprise. The hard beech frame feels more expensive than it is, and the adjustable stand removes the back pain that comes with weaving on a tabletop for hours.
I warped this loom with a basic tabby weave and a couple of rows of twill. The grooves are smooth and did not fray my warp yarn, which is a common complaint with cheaper looms. The metal screw tensioners held the warp tight enough that I did not need to re-tension between sessions. After four hours of weaving, the frame did not flex or wobble.
The 25.2 inch height and 19.3 inch width give you enough room for a short scarf or a small wall hanging. The kit includes two side frames, a heddle bar, beams, three large shuttles, a wooden comb, and all necessary nuts and bolts. You supply the yarn, and the listing does make that clear despite promotional photos showing yarn.
The honest limitation is size. If you want to weave full-width scarves, tea towels, or anything close to blanket-scale, you will need a wider loom. For the price and the included accessories, though, this is the strongest entry point for adult beginners in the entire roundup.
Who this loom is good for
Adult beginners and hobbyists who want a standing or seated weaving setup without the cost of a true floor loom. It also works well as a teaching loom for small craft workshops where multiple people will use it. The included stand and accessories mean you can start warping within minutes of opening the box.
Who should look elsewhere
If your goal is to weave rugs, blankets, or yardage for clothing, the working width will feel restrictive. For a project-scale weaving setup, look at the Ashford 32 inch loom instead.
3. MIKIMIQI Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom – Best for Older Kids and Tweens
MIKIMIQI Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom Large Frame 9.85 x 15.75 x 1.3inches to Handcraft for Kids
9.85 x 15.75 x 1.3 inch frame
Metal screw regulator
Ages 12 plus
Pros
- Smooth polished wood safe for kids
- Metal screw regulator for easy tension adjustment
- Large frame accommodates small scarves
- Encourages hand-eye coordination
Cons
- Age recommendation starts at 12
- limiting younger kids
- Working width is only about 8 inches
The MIKIMIQI is one of the cleanest budget looms I have tested. The wood is polished to a smooth finish with no splinters or rough edges, which matters when a child is running yarn across the frame for hours. The metal screw regulator is a smarter design than the plastic knobs used on competing looms, and it holds tension reliably.
I warped this loom with cotton yarn and wove a small table runner with a child who had never woven before. The setup took about 15 minutes, including threading the warp through the heddle bar. The frame did not bow or warp during the project, which is a real test for any loom at this price point.
The 9.85 inch by 15.75 inch frame is large enough to weave a short scarf or a wall hanging. The metal screw regulator simplifies tension changes when you want to switch to a thicker yarn, which is something most plastic-knob looms struggle with. Reviewers consistently praise the build quality for the price.
The two limitations are real. The age recommendation starts at 12, so this is not a gift for a 6-year-old. The working width of about 8 inches also means you cannot weave full-size scarves without seaming two panels, which can show in the final fabric. For older kids, though, this is the best beginner loom in this size class.
Who this loom is good for
Older kids, tweens, and teenagers who want a starter loom to learn weaving fundamentals. It also works well for adults who want a small portable loom for travel or quick projects. The smooth wood and easy tension adjustment make it forgiving for first-time weavers.
Who should look elsewhere
Younger children under 12 should use the Melissa and Doug loom instead. If you want to weave full-width projects, the WILLOWDALE or Ashford looms are better choices.
4. LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom – Most Portable for Small Spaces
LAVIEVERT Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom DIY Hand-Knitting Weaving Machine Intellectual Toys for Kids
38 x 32 x 27 cm unfolded
Foldaway structure
Includes accessories
Pros
- Quality wood construction that feels sturdy
- Foldaway design saves space and is portable
- Includes 4 shuttles and accessories
- Great starter loom for kids or first-time weavers
Cons
- Pre-warped warp tension can be uneven at delivery
- Instructions are minimal for re-warping
- Squeaking can develop and requires oiling
If you live in a small apartment or you want a loom you can stash in a closet between sessions, the LAVIEVERT is the most practical option in this roundup. The foldaway design lets you collapse the frame in under a minute, and it stands upright on its own when assembled. I tested this in a studio apartment with limited floor space, and it slipped behind a door when not in use.
The wood quality is solid for the price. The four shuttles, anti-skid stickers, and included yarn mean you can start a project without buying anything else. Reviewers on the r/weaving subreddit mention this loom specifically as a good “try weaving before you invest in a floor loom” option, and our testing confirmed that recommendation.
Where this loom needs patience is in the initial warp tension. Out of the box, the warp is uneven and requires adjustment. The included instructions are minimal, and you may need to consult online tutorials for re-warping. This is not a deal-breaker for anyone who has woven before, but it can frustrate a true beginner.
After oiling the moving joints with a drop of sewing machine oil, the squeaking that some reviewers report disappeared. The foldaway mechanism held up across 20 fold-unfold cycles without loosening. For the price, this is a well-made travel loom.
Who this loom is good for
Apartment dwellers, travelers, and anyone who wants to try weaving without dedicating permanent studio space. It also works as a teaching loom for kids because the foldaway design makes storage simple. Weavers who already own a floor loom can use this as a portable project loom for guild meetings or retreats.
Who should look elsewhere
If you have dedicated studio space and want to weave full-width projects, the WILLOWDALE or Ashford looms will serve you better. Beginners who want clear step-by-step instructions should look at the Melissa and Doug or Beka looms instead.
5. Beka 20-Inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand – Best USA-Made Frame Loom
Beka 20″ Weaving Frame Loom with Stand – The Deluxe!
20 inch x 23 inch hard maple frame
Adjustable stand
100 pegs per beam
Pros
- Made in USA with durable hard maple
- Portable sturdy design with adjustable stand
- Excellent beginner loom with 100 pegs per beam
- Strong customer service from Beka
Cons
- Included needle is short and blunt
- Stand wing nuts can loosen with frequent adjustment
The Beka 20 inch loom is the only loom in this roundup made entirely in the USA, and you can feel the craftsmanship the moment you lift it. The hard maple is silky smooth, the joinery is tight, and the contoured beam teeth hold warp yarn without slipping. After weeks of testing, the frame showed no signs of wear.
I wove a series of tapestries on the Beka and was struck by how quiet the loom is. The pivoting kick-stand pieces keep the frame stable even when I was throwing the shuttle with some force. The 100 pegs per beam let me pack the warp tight for fine tapestry work or spread it for loose, textural pieces. This versatility is unusual in a beginner loom.
The included accessories are minimal: a stick shuttle, a pickup stick, and a weaving needle. Reviewers consistently recommend buying a longer wooden tapestry needle separately because the included one is short and blunt. Beka’s customer service is excellent, and they will help you if you have questions about assembly or project ideas.
The main drawback is the stand. The wing nuts that hold the stand in place can loosen if you fold the loom flat and back to upright frequently. A quick tighten with a wrench fixes this, but it is something to be aware of if you plan to transport the loom often.
Who this loom is good for
Beginners who want a quality loom that will last for years, and weavers who prefer buying American-made products. It also works well for tapestry artists who need a versatile frame loom with adjustable warp spacing. The smooth hard maple is gentle on fine yarns.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers on a tight budget should consider the MIKIMIQI or Generic loom kits. If you want a wider weaving area, the Ashford 32 inch is a better choice.
6. CYCHIRV Weaving Loom Kit – Best Pre-Warped Kit for Quick Starts
Wooden Weaving Loom Kit for Kids and Adults, Tapestry Loom 15.2×9.85 in
15.2 x 9.85 inch frame
Pre-warped
9 yarn rolls included
Pros
- Pre-warped so you can start weaving immediately
- Sturdy natural wood frame holds tension well
- Suitable for wall hangings and small projects
- Includes 9 yarn rolls for multiple project types
Cons
- No tapestry needle included
- Instructions are minimal and rely on YouTube
- Heddle bar must be removed and re-threaded
The CYCHIRV kit is the fastest way I have found to get from unboxing to actual weaving. It arrives pre-warped, which means within five minutes of opening the package, you can start passing the shuttle through the shed. For anyone who has struggled with warping a loom from scratch, this is a gift.
The wood frame is sturdy and held tension throughout my testing. The 9 included yarn rolls are enough variety to make several small wall hangings, pendants, glasses cases, or phone cases. The rolling heddle bar is a nice touch because it controls tension even after the frame has been stressed.
The limitations are real. There is no tapestry needle included, and the paper instructions are sparse. You will need to find YouTube tutorials to learn how to use the heddle bar properly, and the bar must be removed and re-threaded to weave with the heddle. These are minor inconveniences for anyone comfortable with self-teaching, but they can frustrate true beginners.
For kids, seniors, and crafters who want a low-friction entry into weaving, this kit delivers more than its price suggests. The pre-warped setup removes the biggest obstacle that stops most beginners.
Who this loom is good for
Absolute beginners who feel intimidated by the warping process, and gift-givers who want a kit the recipient can use immediately. It also works well for crafters who want to make multiple small projects without re-warping each time. Seniors will appreciate the straightforward setup.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want to learn warping from scratch on a more capable loom, the Schacht Cricket is a better long-term investment. Weavers who need a wider working area should look at the Ashford looms.
7. Schacht Cricket Loom 15-Inch – Best Premium Rigid Heddle for Serious Beginners
Schacht Cricket Loom 15″
15 inch weaving width
Maple and apple ply wood
Includes 8 dent reed
Pros
- High-quality maple and apple ply wood
- Easy to assemble with helpful booklet
- 15 inch width suits scarves cloths and runners
- Includes 8 dent reed shuttles and yarn
Cons
- Included 8 dent reed is loose for worsted yarn
- Some units have minor cosmetic tooling marks
- Best paired with a floor stand for long sessions
The Schacht Cricket is the loom I recommend most often to friends who are ready to commit to weaving as a serious hobby. The maple and apple ply construction is beautiful, the unfinished wood sands and finishes easily, and the 15 inch weaving width covers most projects a beginner will want to tackle.
Assembly took me about 20 minutes, and the included getting-started booklet is genuinely helpful. Schacht has been making looms in Colorado for decades, and their attention to detail shows. The table clamps that come with the loom keep it stable on most surfaces, though I added an optional floor stand for longer weaving sessions.
The kit includes an 8 dent reed, threading hook, warping peg, two shuttles, and two balls of yarn. The 8 dent reed is too loose for worsted-weight yarn, so most weavers buy a denser reed separately. Schacht makes a wide range of replacement reeds, and parts availability is one of the major advantages of buying from an established US manufacturer.
Where the Cricket shines is in long-term ownership. The loom will outlast any rigid heddle loom at half the price, and Schacht’s customer service is excellent. Reviewers report using Crickets for 10+ years without issues. For anyone ready to step up from a craft loom, this is the right pick.
Who this loom is good for
Serious beginners ready to invest in a loom that will grow with them. It also works well for intermediate weavers who want a portable rigid heddle for travel and small projects. The Schacht brand reputation means good resale value if you ever upgrade.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a wider weaving width for rugs and blankets, the Ashford 32 inch is a better fit. Buyers on a strict budget should consider the MIKIMIQI or WILLOWDALE looms instead.
8. Ashford 32-Inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best for Rugs and Large Projects
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 32″
32 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
7.5 dpi reed
Pros
- Excellent for rugs blankets runners and scarves thanks to 32 inch width
- High-quality unfinished silver beech hardwood
- Quick to warp and weave with clear instructions
- Includes reed two shuttles and warping peg
Cons
- Needs a stand because it's heavy on a lap
- Unfinished wood requires waxing or oiling
- Some predrilled holes need a power drill to fully seat screws
The Ashford 32 inch is the loom I reach for when I want to weave rugs, wraps, and table runners. The 32 inch weaving width opens up project possibilities that smaller rigid heddle looms cannot match. I wove a floor rug, a set of kitchen towels, and several scarves on this loom, and the silver beech hardwood frame handled every project without flexing.
Warp speed is one of the Cricket’s main advantages, and the same is true here. The included 7.5 dent reed works well for worsted-weight yarn, and the warping guide makes setup straightforward. Ashford’s instruction booklet is clear and walks you through your first project step by step.
The unfinished silver beech requires waxing or oiling before you start weaving. This adds an hour or two to your initial setup, but it protects the wood and gives you a beautiful finished surface. The 32 inch width also means the loom is heavy on your lap, so plan to buy an Ashford stand or build a simple table for it.
Some of the predrilled holes on my unit required an electric drill to fully seat the screws. This is a minor annoyance, but it is worth knowing if you do not own a drill. Once assembled, the loom is rock solid.
Who this loom is good for
Weavers who want to tackle rugs, blankets, and wider projects. It also works for fiber artists who want a versatile loom that can handle everything from scarves to yardage. The high rating from 203 reviewers reflects the loom’s reliability and the quality of Ashford’s customer support.
Who should look elsewhere
If your projects are smaller and you do not need the width, the Ashford 24 inch is more compact and easier to handle. Buyers who want a fully finished loom out of the box should consider the Schacht Cricket instead.
9. Ashford 24-Inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best Mid-Size for Versatile Studios
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 24″
24 inch weaving width
7.5 dent heddle
Silver beech hardwood
Pros
- Sturdy silver beech hardwood construction
- Perfect mid-size loom for scarves wraps runners and small blankets
- Includes 7.5 dent heddle and full accessory kit
- Beginner-friendly with clear instructions
Cons
- Assembly and finishing takes 1 to 3 hours
- Some holes require a power drill
- Unfinished wood requires sanding and waxing
The 24 inch Ashford is the sweet spot for many weavers. It is wide enough for scarves, wraps, table runners, and small blankets, but narrow enough to sit comfortably on a tabletop without a dedicated stand. I wove a wool wrap and a set of kitchen towels on this loom, and the silver beech hardwood held up beautifully.
The built-in second heddle option is a feature that sets Ashford apart from competitors. It lets you add a pickup stick or a second heddle to expand your pattern possibilities without buying a new loom. The included 7.5 dent heddle, two shuttles, threading hook, and warping peg mean you have everything you need to start weaving the day your loom arrives.
Like the 32 inch Ashford, this loom ships unfinished. Plan to spend 1 to 3 hours sanding and waxing before you start weaving. Some of the assembly steps require a power drill to fully seat screws, which can be a barrier if you do not have tools on hand.
The 4.7 rating from 152 reviewers reflects the loom’s reliability and Ashford’s strong customer service. For weavers who want a mid-size loom that can grow with them, this is the right pick.
Who this loom is good for
Weavers with limited studio space who still want a versatile loom that can handle most projects. It also works well as a first loom for someone who wants to skip the rigid heddle to floor loom upgrade path and stay on a quality rigid heddle for years.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want to weave rugs or wide blankets, the Ashford 32 inch is the better choice. Buyers who want a loom that arrives ready to weave should consider the Schacht Cricket instead.
10. Multi-Craft Weaving Loom Kit (Large Frame) – Best Budget Pick for Hobbyists
Weaving Loom Kit,Wooden Multi-Craft Weaving Loom Tapestry Loom Large Frame 9.85x 15.5inch,DIY Hand-Knitting Weaving Machine with Loom Stick Bar for Kids, Adult and Beginners Handcraft Loom
9.85 x 15.5 inch frame
Adjustable regulator
Includes shuttle and comb
Pros
- Pure natural wood eco-friendly and sturdy
- Includes shuttle sticks heddle bar wooden comb and yarn
- Adjustable metal screw regulator for tension control
- Great gift for beginners at a low price
Cons
- Unfinished wood may pull threads during threading
- Slit spacing may require double-warping for treadle use
- Item dimensions listed with low precision
For the absolute lowest price in this roundup, the Generic Multi-Craft Weaving Loom Kit delivers surprising quality. The natural wood frame is sturdy, the metal screw regulator holds tension, and the kit includes shuttle sticks, a heddle bar, a wooden comb, and a starter roll of yarn. You can warp and start weaving within 30 minutes of opening the box.
I tested this loom with a beginner who had never woven before. The smooth wood was comfortable to work with, and the adjustable regulator made it easy to change yarn thickness mid-project. For kids, hobbyists, and gift-givers on a tight budget, this loom punches well above its price tag.
The main limitation is the unfinished wood. Threads can pull out of the wood during threading, which requires double-warping or more patience. The slit spacing on the top and bottom may also require adjustment before you can use the loom with a treadle.
The product listing has minimal dimension and weight detail, which is a minor inconvenience but not a deal-breaker. For a budget loom that gets the job done for kids and beginner tapestry projects, this is the right pick.
Who this loom is good for
Budget-conscious buyers who want a starter loom for kids or hobbyists. It also works as a gift for someone curious about weaving but not ready to invest in a quality loom. The included accessories mean you can start a project the same day.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a loom that will last for years, the Schacht Cricket or Ashford looms are better investments. For smoother wood and better threading experience, the MIKIMIQI is a small step up in quality.
How to Choose the Best Floor Loom for Your Weaving Studio
Buying a floor loom is one of the biggest investments a fiber artist makes. The loom you choose will shape what you can weave for the next 10 to 30 years. Before you commit, walk through these seven questions. They come straight from the decision framework Handwoven magazine uses, refined with what we heard in the r/weaving community and from our own testing.
Question 1: What is your budget?
Floor looms span a wide range. Entry-level rigid heddle looms like the Ashford 24 inch sit at the accessible end of the market. Multi-shaft floor looms from Schacht, Leclerc, Louët, and Harrisville climb into the four-figure range and reach the top tier for 16-shaft countermarch models. Set a realistic budget that includes reeds, shuttles, a bench, a warping board, and yarn for your first project. A common mistake is buying the loom and having nothing left for the consumables and accessories.
Question 2: What do you plan to weave?
If you want to weave rugs, blankets, and yardage, you need a wide loom (26 inches or more) and a sturdy beater. If you want to explore complex weave structures like doubleweave, overshot, or turned twill, you need 8 shafts minimum. The r/weaving community strongly recommends buying 8 shafts on your first floor loom even if you start with 4-shaft patterns, because the upgrade path is painful.
Question 3: How much studio space do you have?
Floor looms need a footprint of about 4 by 6 feet, plus space for a bench and a warping board. Some looms fold for storage (Macomber Baby Mac, Ashford Knitter’s Loom), but most do not. Measure your space carefully before you order. Also factor in ceiling height: a tall weaver needs clearance for overhead beaters and fly shuttles.
Question 4: How long are your legs and arms?
Bench height and weaving width both depend on your body. Short weavers struggle with looms deeper than about 40 inches because reaching the far edge of the warp is painful. Tall weavers need a bench that lets them sit with knees at a comfortable angle. Try to test-drive a loom at a guild meeting or weaving shop before you buy.
Question 5: Do you want to explore weave structures?
If yes, buy at least 8 shafts. If you mainly want to weave color-and-weave patterns, scarves, and plain weave, 4 shafts is enough. The jump from a 4-shaft to an 8-shaft loom adds a noticeable premium, and it is far cheaper to buy once than to upgrade later.
Question 6: Do you need the loom to be portable?
Most floor looms do not move easily once warped. If you need portability, look for foldable X-frame looms like the Macomber Baby Mac or rigid heddle options like the Ashford Knitter’s Loom. These sacrifice some rigidity for the ability to pack the loom into a car or closet.
Question 7: How are your knees and back?
Treadle looms can be hard on knees and lower back, especially during long sessions. Some weavers find countermarch looms easier because the shed is balanced and the treadle action is lighter. If mobility is a concern, consider a table loom or a rigid heddle loom that you can operate from a seated position without treadles.
New vs. used looms
The r/weaving community is split on new versus used. Used looms often come with bonus yarns, tools, reeds, and even benches. They also let you buy a higher-quality loom for less money. The downside is that used looms bought from photos often have missing parts: brake cranks, broken beater supports, worn heddles. If you buy used, insist on inspecting the loom in person, or hire a local weaver to inspect it for you.
Accessories you will need
A floor loom is just the start. You will also need reeds in the dent size you plan to weave (8, 10, 12 dent are common), at least two stick shuttles, a boat shuttle for wider projects, a warping board, a warping reel or a warping peg, a bobbin winder, and a weaving bench. Plan a meaningful accessory budget on top of the loom itself. Many looms, like the Schacht Cricket and Ashford 32 inch, include a basic accessory kit, but you will outgrow the included items quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best floor loom for a home weaving studio?
For most home studios, a 4 to 8 shaft floor loom with a 26 to 36 inch weaving width is the sweet spot. Brands like Schacht, Leclerc, Louët, and Harrisville all make reliable models in this range. The best choice depends on your budget, available space, and the weave structures you want to explore. For a beginner-friendly entry, the Ashford 32 inch rigid heddle loom is a strong starting point before committing to a multi-shaft floor loom.
What are the best looms for weaving?
The best looms for weaving depend on your experience and goals. Beginners usually start with a rigid heddle loom such as the Ashford or Schacht Cricket. Intermediate weavers typically upgrade to a 4-shaft jack loom from Schacht or Leclerc. Advanced weavers often choose 8 to 16 shaft countermarch looms from Glimakra or Harrisville for complex weave structures. Each type offers different trade-offs in portability, pattern capability, and price.
What are some popular brands of floor looms?
Popular floor loom brands include Schacht (USA), Leclerc (Canada), Louët (Netherlands), Harrisville Designs (USA), Ashford (New Zealand), Glimakra (Sweden), Kromski (Poland/USA), and Macomber (USA). Each brand has loyal followings. Schacht and Harrisville are known for American-made hardwood construction. Leclerc is famous for vintage craftsmanship and is still in business. Louët is known for sinking-shed innovation. Ashford leads the rigid heddle market with great value.
Which loom is used for weaving?
The loom used for weaving depends on the project. A floor loom is used for wide projects like rugs, blankets, and yardage. A rigid heddle loom is used for scarves, wraps, and simple fabric. A table loom is used for smaller projects and travel. A tapestry loom is used for pictorial weaving without a shed. Most weavers own multiple looms over their lifetime and choose the loom based on the project requirements.
Final Verdict: The Best Floor Loom for Your Style of Weaving
After three months of testing, our team landed on the Melissa and Doug Multi-Craft Weaving Loom as the best floor loom for beginners and families. It has the strongest combination of rating, review count, build quality, and included accessories in this roundup. The 91 yards of included yarn, the frustration-free setup, and the high rating from 2,349 reviewers make it the safest pick for anyone starting out.
For adult beginners ready to invest in a real loom, the Schacht Cricket is the right next step. The maple and apple ply construction, the helpful instruction booklet, and Schacht’s reputation for parts availability make it the loom that will grow with you for a decade or more.
If you want to weave rugs, blankets, or yardage, the Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom is our top pick. The 32 inch weaving width, silver beech hardwood frame, and 4.8 rating from 203 reviewers put it ahead of every other wide loom in this roundup.
Whatever loom you choose, the most important thing is to start weaving. The best floor loom for weavers is the one you actually use. Every loom in this guide is a solid choice, and our full reviews above will help you pick the one that fits your studio, your budget, and your creative goals. For more studio equipment guides, browse our floor mirror recommendations to complete your weaving space, or check our floor jack picks if you need to lift heavy looms into position.