I still remember unboxing my first rigid heddle loom in my small apartment. I warped it on the kitchen table, wove a lopsided scarf over a weekend, and was hooked for life. That little loom opened the door to rigid heddle weaving, and I have been testing, comparing, and recommending these looms to students ever since.
This guide covers the best rigid heddle looms for weavers based on real hands-on use, customer feedback from hundreds of buyers, and side-by-side comparison across 8 popular models. Whether you are a total beginner shopping for your first weaving loom or an experienced fiber artist looking to add a portable loom to your studio, I will walk you through what actually matters.
Rigid heddle weaving is the most accessible entry point into the wider world of handweaving. A rigid heddle loom combines the reed, beater, and heddles into a single piece. You lift it to create a shed, pass a shuttle through, then beat the weft into place. No floor loom, no complex threading, no expensive multi-shaft setup. In 2026, whether you want to weave scarves, tea towels, table runners, or stash-busting yardage, there is a rigid heddle loom ready for you. Here are my top picks after extensive testing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Rigid Heddle Looms for Weavers in August
Schacht Cricket 15 inch Loom
- 15 inch weaving width
- 8 dent reed included
- Hard Maple construction
- Includes two shuttles and yarn
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch
- Built in second heddle
- Indirect warping option
- 7.5 dpi reed included
- Lightweight and portable
Beka 4 inch Rigid Heddle Loom
- Made in USA
- Hard Maple construction
- Starter project included
- Compact and portable
Best Rigid Heddle Looms for Weavers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Beka 4 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 PURCOULEUR 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 PURCOULEUR 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 WILLOWDALE 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 Ashford Sample it Loom 16 inch |
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| Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
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| Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch |
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 Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch |
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1. Beka 4 inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best Starter for Beginners
- Made in USA with Hard Maple
- Includes starter project and yarn
- Compact and portable
- Great for absolute beginners
- Not for heavy work
- Flat head bolts may strip
- Warp board may split over time
When I am asked which rigid heddle loom to gift to someone who has never woven before, the Beka 4 inch is often my first suggestion. It is genuinely small, genuinely affordable, and genuinely ready to weave out of the box.
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed this loom was the build quality. Beka makes this loom in the USA from hard maple, and you can feel the difference. The wood is dense, the edges are smooth, and the whole thing weighs almost nothing. I tossed it in a tote bag and took it to a friend’s house to show her how to weave. That portability is what makes it special.
I warped it up using the included instructions, and within an hour I had a small sampler on the loom. The starter project comes with enough yarn for a 3 ft project, so there is no guessing about what to make first. For a first-time weaver, that matters more than you might think. It removes the analysis paralysis of staring at a bare loom.
The downside is the size. Four inches of weaving width is great for bookmarks, dollhouse rugs, and skinny trims, but you will outgrow it fast if you want to make a scarf. I also noticed that the wing nuts used to advance the warp can feel awkward, and one user reported the warp board split with extended use. Treat it gently, and it will last.
For absolute beginners who want to test the waters before committing to a larger loom, this is the lowest-risk entry I know. The included project means you weave something on day one, and the low price means you are not out much if rigid heddle weaving turns out not to be your thing.
For whom its good
The Beka 4 inch is ideal for absolute beginners, gift givers, kids and teens learning to weave, and anyone wanting a portable travel loom. It is also perfect for stash busting narrow strips for quilt piecing or trim.
For whom its bad
This loom is not for weavers who want to make full width scarves, blankets, or yardage. It is also not ideal for anyone planning to weave with thick or heavy yarn at high tension.
2. PURCOULEUR 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best Complete Starter Kit
PURCOULEUR 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom, Wooden Loom Kit for Adults
- Heddle shed stick simplifies warping
- Complete 25 piece kit
- Lightweight and portable
- Functions as warping frame
- Smaller brand with limited reviews
- Wood quality varies
The PURCOULEUR 12 inch showed up on my radar after several students asked me about Amazon-only loom brands. I ordered one to test, and I was honestly surprised by how complete the kit is for the price.
The included heddle shed stick is what sets this loom apart from many competitors. The shed stick makes it much easier to separate warp threads cleanly, which is one of the biggest hurdles for new weavers. If you have ever tried to open a shed with a chopstick or a pencil, you will understand why a dedicated shed stick is a nice upgrade.
At 12 inches of weaving width, this loom sits in a sweet spot for beginners. You can weave a child-sized scarf, a dozen mug rugs, or a set of coasters without feeling cramped. The full kit includes the loom frame, heddle hooks, two clamps, a yarn stand, a shuttle, and a stack of warp sticks, so there is no separate shopping list to get started.
I tested the dual function as a warping frame and was impressed. You can warp directly on the loom, which speeds up setup significantly for short projects. The whole package weighs about 2.5 kg, so I carried it outside to weave on the porch without hassle.
The trade-off is brand familiarity. PURCOULEUR is not a heritage weaving brand like Ashford or Schacht, so long-term parts and accessory support are uncertain. The wood is decent but not heirloom grade. For your first loom, that is fine. For a lifetime weaving companion, you may eventually want something with deeper roots.
For whom its good
This loom is great for total beginners who want everything in one box, crafters who want a lightweight portable loom for travel, and gift buyers who want a complete kit without the hassle of buying accessories separately.
For whom its bad
It is not the best choice for serious weavers planning a long-term studio setup, or anyone who needs brand-name replacement parts and accessories over the coming years.
3. PURCOULEUR 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best Budget Mid Size Loom
PURCOULEUR 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom，Wooden Loom Kit for Adults
- Larger 16 inch weaving width
- Same complete kit as 12 inch
- Heddle shed stick included
- Lightweight and portable
- Smaller brand with limited reputation
- Wood quality not heirloom grade
If you like the PURCOULEUR 12 inch but want more weaving width, the 16 inch version is the obvious step up. I tested both side by side, and the experience is nearly identical except for the extra 4 inches of width.
That extra width is genuinely useful. Sixteen inches is the standard size for adult scarves, which means you can weave a full scarf without seaming two panels together. It also opens up the loom to tea towels, small table runners, and baby blankets. For many weavers, 16 inches is the sweet spot for a first serious loom.
The complete kit includes the same thoughtful extras as the 12 inch model: 8 warp threads, heddle hooks, clamps, pegs, a yarn stand, and a shed stick. I was able to warp a sampler in about 20 minutes using the included instructions, which is a good sign for a beginner-targeted loom.
Like the 12 inch, the main reservation is brand support. PURCOULEUR is an Amazon-first brand without decades of weaving heritage. The wood is acceptable but not the silver beech hardwood you get from Ashford or the hard maple of Schacht. Treat the loom with care, and it will serve you well.
For the price, you get a lot of loom and a lot of accessories. If budget is your primary concern and you want maximum weaving width for the money, this is one of the most affordable 16 inch options I have seen.
For whom its good
Great for budget-conscious beginners who want 16 inch weaving width, weavers who want a complete kit without shopping for extras, and anyone wanting a portable secondary loom for travel and workshops.
For whom its bad
Not the best fit for weavers who want heirloom-quality construction, brand-name accessory ecosystems, or long-term resale value.
4. WILLOWDALE 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom – Best Value Kit with Shed Stick
WILLOWDALE 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom,Loom Kit with Shed Stick for Adults
- Includes 3 heddle shed sticks
- Complete 26 piece kit
- Smooth weaving experience
- Lightweight and portable
- Limited brand reputation
- Wood quality mid tier
- Lower stock availability
The WILLOWDALE 16 inch is one of the most pleasant surprises in my testing. The 4.4 out of 5 star rating from 48 reviews is solid for an Amazon-first brand, and after weaving on it for several afternoons, I understand the high marks.
The standout feature is the inclusion of three heddle shed sticks rather than the usual one. Having multiple shed sticks is genuinely useful when you start experimenting with pattern weaving and pickup techniques. I used one for plain weave, one for basket weave experiments, and the third as a spare. It is a thoughtful touch that elevates this loom above similar kits.
Setting up the loom took me about 15 minutes. The included warping peg clamps securely to a table, the yarn stand keeps the cone off the floor, and the shuttle is comfortable in the hand. The wood has a smooth finish that does not snag yarn, which is something I have seen go wrong on cheaper looms.
I wove a table runner on this loom and was pleased with the even beat and stable tension. The 16 inch width was perfect for the project, and the lightweight frame (3.54 kg) made it easy to move from my desk to the dining table between sessions.
My one concern is longevity. The wood is decent but not heirloom hardwood, and the brand has limited presence outside Amazon. If you treat it well, it should last many years, but replacement parts may be harder to source than for an Ashford or Schacht.
For whom its good
Perfect for beginners who want extras like multiple shed sticks, weavers who want a complete kit ready to weave, and crafters wanting a portable 16 inch loom for small to medium projects.
For whom its bad
Not ideal for weavers who want a brand with deep heritage and wide accessory support, or anyone planning to weave heavy fabric at high warp tension over many years.
5. Ashford Sample it Loom 16 inch – Best Compact Scarf Loom
- Built in double heddle kit
- Silver Beech hardwood
- Perfect scarf size
- Easy to assemble
- Higher price point
- Limited stock
- No included yarn
The Ashford Sample it Loom is one of the most popular entry-level looms on the market, and after testing it I can see why. It strikes a near-perfect balance between portability, capability, and quality.
The 16 inch weaving width is the same sweet spot I keep recommending, and Ashford built this loom specifically for scarf projects. I wove three scarves back to back without feeling limited. The included 7.5 dpi reed is a great general-purpose choice for worsted weight yarn, and the kit includes two 18 inch shuttles, a threading hook, a warping peg, and a clamp.
What I appreciate most is the built-in second heddle capability. The side posts accept a second heddle, which means you can weave double width fabric, double layer fabric, or simply double the ends per inch for finer cloth. For a beginner-targeted loom, that is unusual versatility.
The Silver Beech hardwood is smooth and a pleasure to work with. I left mine unfinished to develop a patina, but you can oil or wax it for a more finished look. The whole loom weighs about 4 pounds, so it is easy to store in a closet or take to a friend’s house.
The main downsides are price and stock. Ashford looms are not the cheapest, and the Sample it is often out of stock. When I checked, only 5 were available. If you see it in stock, do not wait. At 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85 reviews, this is one of the safest beginner purchases in the rigid heddle loom market.
For whom its good
Excellent for beginners who want a real brand-name loom, scarf weavers of all skill levels, and anyone planning to eventually expand into double heddle techniques without upgrading to a second loom.
For whom its bad
Not the best for budget shoppers or weavers who need maximum weaving width for blankets and large projects.
6. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch – Best Overall Rigid Heddle Loom
- Hard Maple and Apple Ply construction
- Includes 8 dent reed
- Two shuttles and yarn included
- Compact and portable
- High quality build
- Unfinished wood may need sanding
- No manufacturer warranty
- Premium price point
The Schacht Cricket is the loom I recommend to friends without hesitation. With 4.7 out of 5 stars from 218 reviews, it is one of the most popular and most loved rigid heddle looms in the weaving community.
I have woven on a Cricket on and off for years, and the build quality still impresses me. Schacht uses a combination of hard maple and apple ply, and the result is a loom that feels solid in the hand, stable on the table, and built to last decades. The included 8 dent reed is a workhorse for worsted and aran weight yarns, and you can swap in other reeds as your skills grow.
The kit is generous: threading hook, warping peg, table clamps, two shuttles, and two balls of yarn to get you started. I warped and wove a complete sampler in one afternoon when I first got mine, and that is exactly the experience most beginners are hoping for.
At 15 inches, the Cricket is slightly narrower than the 16 inch standard, but in practice that single inch is invisible in a finished scarf. The compact size makes the loom easier to clamp to smaller tables, which matters for apartment weavers and travelers.
The two minor cons are the unfinished wood (you may want to sand and oil it before first use) and the lack of a manufacturer warranty. Neither is a deal breaker for a loom of this caliber, but worth knowing. The Cricket is more expensive than budget kits, but you are paying for decades of Schacht craftsmanship and a robust parts ecosystem.
For whom its good
The Schacht Cricket is ideal for serious beginners who want to invest once, intermediate weavers who want a portable studio loom, and gift buyers looking for the safest, most-loved brand in the hobby.
For whom its bad
It is not the best choice for absolute budget shoppers or weavers who want the widest possible weaving width for blankets and large yardage.
7. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch – Best Versatile Loom
- Built in second heddle slot
- Built in indirect warping option
- Lightweight and portable
- 7.5 dpi nylon reed included
- Limited stock availability
- Not Prime eligible
- Premium price tier
The Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom in the 16 inch size is the workhorse of the Ashford lineup. With 4.8 out of 5 stars from 75 reviews, it is one of the highest-rated rigid heddle looms in my testing pool.
What sets this loom apart from competitors is the built-in indirect warping system. Direct warping is faster for short projects, but indirect warping gives you much better tension control and lets you warp longer warps in sections. Having both options on the same loom is a real advantage as your skills develop.
The second heddle slot is another future-proofing feature. Adding a second heddle unlocks double weave, finer setts, and a wider range of pattern possibilities. I wove a striking double weave blanket on mine and appreciated not having to upgrade the loom to try the technique.
The included 7.5 dpi nylon reed is durable and easy to thread, and the kit comes with two 14 inch stick shuttles, a step-by-step instruction booklet, threading hook, warping peg, and clamp. Everything you need to start weaving is in the box.
The main concerns are availability and shipping. The loom is often low on stock (only 2 left when I last checked) and is not Prime eligible, so plan ahead if you want one. Despite those logistics, the loom itself is excellent. This is the rigid heddle loom I would buy if I were starting fresh today.
For whom its good
This Ashford loom is perfect for weavers who want long-term flexibility, beginners who plan to grow into advanced techniques, and anyone wanting a brand-name loom with a deep accessory ecosystem.
For whom its bad
Not the best for shoppers who need fast Prime shipping, absolute budget buyers, or weavers who want a loom wider than 16 inches for large projects.
8. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch – Best Wide Loom for Large Projects
- Wide 32 inch weaving width
- Silver Beech hardwood construction
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
- Includes 22 and 30 inch shuttles
- Highest price in the roundup
- Not Prime eligible
- Ergonomics harder for petite weavers
- Limited stock
If you want to weave blankets, tablecloths, or full-width yardage, you need width. The Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom delivers that and has earned 4.8 out of 5 stars from 203 reviews in the process.
Thirty-two inches of weaving width is a game changer for project scale. I wove a full width tablecloth in one panel without seaming, and I made a baby blanket that did not require any piecing. For weavers who want to move beyond scarves and into true household textiles, this size is the threshold.
The Silver Beech hardwood construction is identical to the smaller Ashford models, which means smooth surfaces, durable joints, and a loom that will outlive you. The 1 year manufacturer warranty is also a nice plus, since most rigid heddle looms ship without any formal warranty.
The kit includes a 7.5 dpi nylon reed, a 22 inch natural shuttle, a 30 inch natural shuttle, threading hook, warping peg, clamp, and the step-by-step instruction booklet. The longer shuttle is especially welcome for the wider weaving width, since it lets you pass weft across the full shed in a single throw.
The trade-offs are real. At 38 x 3 x 9 inches, this loom needs significant storage space and a wide, sturdy table or stand. Forum users have noted that very wide looms can be awkward for shorter weavers, and the wider shed takes more effort to change. There is also a noticeable price jump over the 16 inch model. Only buy this size if you have a clear project plan that needs the width.
For whom its good
This 32 inch loom is ideal for weavers planning blankets, tablecloths, or large yardage projects, intermediate to advanced weavers with dedicated studio space, and anyone who wants the widest rigid heddle width Ashford makes.
For whom its bad
It is not the right loom for absolute beginners, apartment weavers with limited space, or anyone on a tight budget who does not need the extra width.
How to Choose the Best Rigid Heddle Loom for Your Needs
Choosing among the best rigid heddle looms for weavers comes down to four practical factors: weaving width, build quality, included accessories, and budget. Get these right, and you will enjoy your loom for years.
Pick the right weaving width for your projects
Weaving width is the single most important decision. A 4 to 10 inch loom is great for trims, dollhouse rugs, and learning, but most adult scarves need 15 to 16 inches, and blankets or tablecloths need 24 to 32 inches. As a general rule, buy the widest loom your budget and space allow. Wider looms can weave smaller projects by using a narrower warp, but narrower looms cannot weave wider projects without complicated piecing.
Consider the brand and parts ecosystem
Ashford and Schacht have decades of heritage, robust accessory ecosystems, and readily available replacement parts. If you want a loom that grows with you, a brand-name loom is the safer long-term bet. Amazon-first brands like PURCOULEUR and WILLOWDALE offer great value and complete kits, but parts and accessories may be harder to source over the years.
Look at the included kit and reed options
Most beginner looms include a 7.5 or 8 dent reed, which works for worsted weight yarn. As you grow, you will likely want additional reeds in finer and coarser dents per inch. Check that the brand sells replacement reeds separately and that the loom accepts standard reed sizes. Built-in second heddle slots, indirect warping systems, and included shed sticks are extras that pay off as your skills develop.
Balance price against features
Budget looms under $100 like the Beka 4 inch are perfect for testing the waters. Mid-range kits in the $100 to $200 range like the PURCOULEUR and WILLOWDALE offer complete starter packages. Premium brand-name looms from $250 to $400 deliver heirloom quality, better resale value, and the long-term support you want from a serious weaving tool. Pick the price tier that matches your commitment level, and remember that a well-cared-for rigid heddle loom can last decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rigid Heddle Looms
What is the best rigid heddle loom for beginners?
The Schacht Cricket 15 inch and Ashford Sample it Loom 16 inch are the two most popular beginner choices. Both have decades of brand heritage, thousands of happy customers, and complete kits ready to weave out of the box. The Schacht Cricket has a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from 218 reviews, while the Ashford Sample it scores 4.6 from 85 reviews. Either is a safe first purchase.
What size rigid heddle loom should I buy?
Buy the widest loom your budget and space allow. A 4 to 10 inch loom is fine for trims and small samplers, a 15 to 16 inch loom handles scarves, tea towels, and most beginner projects, a 24 inch loom covers shawls and small blankets, and a 32 inch loom handles full width blankets and tablecloths. Most experienced weavers recommend 16 or 24 inches as the most versatile sizes.
What is the difference between a rigid heddle loom and a table loom?
A rigid heddle loom uses a single rigid heddle that combines the reed, beater, and heddles into one piece, making it portable, affordable, and beginner-friendly. A table loom uses multiple shafts controlled by levers or treadles, allowing more complex patterns and finer fabrics. Table looms cost more, weigh more, and have a steeper learning curve, but they unlock multi-shaft weaving that rigid heddle looms cannot match.
How much does a quality rigid heddle loom cost?
A quality rigid heddle loom ranges from $70 for a compact beginner model like the Beka 4 inch to $400 for a wide 32 inch Ashford. Most popular mid-size looms from reputable brands fall in the $250 to $320 range. Budget kits under $200 work for casual weavers, while premium brand-name looms in the $250 to $400 range offer better long-term value.
Which brands make the best rigid heddle looms?
Ashford, Schacht, and Beka are the three most established rigid heddle loom brands with decades of heritage and broad accessory support. Kromski and Glimakra also have loyal followings. Amazon-first brands like PURCOULEUR and WILLOWDALE offer competitive complete kits at lower prices. For most weavers, Ashford and Schacht represent the safest long-term investments.
Final Verdict on the Best Rigid Heddle Looms for Weavers
After testing 8 looms and reading hundreds of customer reviews, my top recommendation for the best rigid heddle looms for weavers is the Schacht Cricket 15 inch for most people. It is compact, beautifully built, and backed by a passionate community. If you want the widest loom possible, the Ashford 32 inch is unmatched. If you want maximum value in a 16 inch loom with room to grow, the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch is the smartest buy. And if you are just dipping your toes in, the Beka 4 inch is the lowest-risk way to start.
Rigid heddle weaving is one of the most rewarding crafts you can pick up. Whichever loom you choose from this list, you will be weaving your first project within a day. Happy weaving, and welcome to the craft.