Best Free Loom: Top Pick & 5 Alternatives
The best free loom is the one that matches the kind of weaving you want to do, but for most beginners and hobbyists, a rigid heddle loom like the Ashford SampleIt or the Schacht Cricket offers the best balance of simplicity, portability, and versatility. These looms are affordable, easy to set up, and let you weave scarves, placemats, and shawls without a steep learning curve. Below, we break down the top free loom options, what to look for, and how to choose the right one for your projects.
What to Look For
When choosing a free loom, focus on these key criteria:
- Weaving width: The width of the loom determines the maximum width of your finished fabric. Common sizes are 10, 15, and 20 inches. For scarves and shawls, 15 inches is a sweet spot; for placemats, 10 inches works; for blankets, you need 20+ inches or a table loom.
- Type of loom: Rigid heddle looms are the most beginner-friendly, with a simple heddle that creates the shed. Table looms have multiple shafts (4 or 8) for more complex patterns but are pricier and have a steeper learning curve. Floor looms are for serious weavers but are large and expensive.
- Portability: If you plan to weave in different rooms or take your loom to classes, a lightweight, foldable rigid heddle loom is ideal. Table looms are heavier but still movable.
- Material and build quality: Hardwood looms (like maple or birch) are durable and hold tension well. Some looms have plastic or metal parts that can be less sturdy but are cheaper.
- Accessories included: Many looms come with a stand, heddle, and weaving tools. A stand is a big plus if you want to weave for long periods without back strain.
- Yarn compatibility: Check the sett (ends per inch) range. Rigid heddle looms typically use yarns from fingering to bulky, but you may need additional heddles for different thicknesses.
- Price: “Free” in this context means no subscription fees, but you still pay for the loom. Budget looms start around $100, while quality rigid heddle looms are $150-$300.
Ashford SampleIt Loom
The Ashford SampleIt is a 10-inch rigid heddle loom that is perfect for beginners and sampling. It comes with a stand, a heddle (12.5 dent), and a pickup stick, all for around $150. The loom is made from laminated hardwood, so it’s sturdy and smooth. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
Strengths: Affordable, includes a stand, great for learning, and can weave scarves and placemats up to 10 inches wide. The stand is a huge bonus because it keeps your hands free and makes weaving more comfortable.
Trade-offs: The 10-inch width limits you to narrower projects. You’ll need to buy additional heddles (around $30 each) for different yarn weights.
Who it suits: Complete beginners, kids, and anyone who wants a low-cost way to try weaving without a big commitment.
Schacht Cricket Loom
The Schacht Cricket is another 10-inch rigid heddle loom, but it’s known for its high-quality craftsmanship. It comes in two versions: the standard Cricket (around $150) and the Cricket with a stand (around $200). The loom features a unique tensioning system that allows you to adjust the warp tension easily, and it folds flat for storage.
Strengths: Excellent build quality, adjustable tension, and a wide range of accessories like a warping peg and additional heddles. The folding design is a plus for storage.
Trade-offs: The 10-inch width is limiting for larger projects. The stand is an extra cost, and the loom is slightly pricier than the Ashford SampleIt.
Who it suits: Weavers who value precision and plan to upgrade to a larger Schacht loom later (the heddles are compatible with the 15-inch Flip loom).
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom (15-inch or 24-inch)
If you want more width, the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom comes in 10, 15, 20, and 24-inch sizes. The 15-inch model is a popular choice because it can weave shawls and scarves, and it’s still portable. Prices start around $200 for the 15-inch, and the 24-inch is around $300. The loom is made from laminated hardwood and comes with a heddle (12.5 dent) and a warping peg.
Strengths: Wider weaving capacity, sturdy construction, and the ability to add a stand (sold separately) for comfort. The 24-inch can weave baby blankets and table runners.
Trade-offs: The larger sizes are heavier and more expensive. You’ll need to buy additional heddles for different yarn weights.
Who it suits: Weavers who want to make wider projects without moving to a complex table loom.
Kromski Harp Forte Loom
The Kromski Harp Forte is a 16-inch rigid heddle loom that stands out for its beautiful design and smooth operation. It features a unique “Harp” shape that makes it easy to weave and also works as a tapestry loom. The loom comes with a 7.5 dent heddle and a warping peg, and it’s priced around $250.
Strengths: Dual-purpose (rigid heddle and tapestry), excellent craftsmanship, and a generous 16-inch weaving width. The loom is also lightweight and folds for storage.
Trade-offs: The heddle size is limited (you’ll need to buy others), and the price is higher than comparable looms. The unique shape might not appeal to everyone.
Who it suits: Weavers who want to experiment with both weaving and tapestry, and who appreciate aesthetic design.
Schacht Flip Loom (15-inch)
The Schacht Flip is a 15-inch rigid heddle loom that offers a unique feature: the heddle can flip up to create a second shed, allowing for more pattern possibilities. It’s priced around $300 and comes with a 10-dent heddle and a warping peg. The loom is made from hardwoods and folds flat.
Strengths: The flip-up heddle enables you to weave pick-up patterns without extra tools. The 15-inch width is versatile, and the build quality is top-notch.
Trade-offs: The price is higher, and the learning curve is slightly steeper due to the flipping feature. The loom is heavier than the Cricket.
Who it suits: Intermediate weavers who want to explore more complex patterns without investing in a table loom.
Harrisville Designs Simple Loom (20-inch)
Harrisville Designs makes a 20-inch rigid heddle loom that is a great value for wide weaving. It’s priced around $200 and comes with a 10-dent heddle and a warping peg. The loom is made from pine and is lightweight, making it easy to move around.
Strengths: Wide weaving width at an affordable price, simple design, and a company known for quality weaving tools. The 20-inch width is great for throws and table runners.
Trade-offs: The pine construction is less durable than hardwood, and the loom doesn’t fold flat. The heddle is not adjustable, so you’ll need to buy different sizes.
Who it suits: Budget-conscious weavers who need a wide loom for larger projects and don’t mind a fixed heddle.
How to Choose
Start by deciding your budget. If you’re under $150, the Ashford SampleIt or Schacht Cricket are your best bets. If you can spend $200-$300, the 15-inch Ashford or Schacht Flip offer more width and features. For tapestry, the Kromski Harp Forte is a unique choice.
Next, think about what you want to weave. Scarves and shawls need at least 15 inches of width; placemats and towels can be done on 10 inches; blankets and throws require 20 inches or more. If you’re unsure, a 15-inch loom is the most versatile.
Consider your space and portability. If you plan to weave at a table or on a stand, a rigid heddle loom is fine. If you need to pack it away, look for folding models like the Schacht Cricket or the Ashford Rigid Heddle (which folds).
Finally, think about future growth. If you’re likely to want more complex patterns, the Schacht Flip or a 4-shaft table loom might be worth the investment. But for most hobbyists, a rigid heddle loom is enough for years of enjoyable weaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a rigid heddle loom and a table loom?
A rigid heddle loom has a single heddle that moves up and down to create the shed, making it simple and fast. A table loom has multiple shafts (usually 4 or 8) that allow for complex patterns, but it’s more expensive and has a steeper learning curve.
Can I weave a blanket on a rigid heddle loom?
Yes, but you’ll need a loom with at least a 20-inch weaving width. You can weave panels and sew them together, but a wider loom is easier.
Do I need a stand for my rigid heddle loom?
Not strictly, but a stand makes weaving more comfortable by bringing the loom to a good height. Many looms have optional stands, or you can use a table.
What yarn should I use for my first project?
Start with a smooth, medium-weight yarn like a worsted weight wool or cotton. Avoid novelty yarns that are uneven. Check your loom’s sett (ends per inch) to choose the right yarn.
How long does it take to weave a scarf?
On a rigid heddle loom, a simple scarf (about 60 inches long) can take 4-8 hours, depending on your speed and the yarn. It’s a relaxing process, not a race.
Can I use a rigid heddle loom for tapestry?
Yes, many rigid heddle looms can be used for tapestry by using the heddle as a shed stick. The Kromski Harp Forte is specifically designed for both.
Bottom Line
For most weavers, the Ashford SampleIt is the best free loom to start with because it’s affordable, includes a stand, and is perfectly sized for learning. If you want more width from the start, the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom in 15-inch is a solid upgrade. And if you’re drawn to tapestry or want a beautiful, versatile loom, the Kromski Harp Forte is worth the extra cost. Whichever you choose, you’ll find that weaving is a rewarding hobby that doesn’t require a huge investment.
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