I have spent the better part of three years testing weaving looms in my home studio, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that finding the best floor looms for weaving is deeply personal. What works for a production weaver churning out yardage every week will not be the same as what a weekend hobbyist needs for a first scarf.
The good news is that the weaving market in 2026 has never offered more accessible options. You no longer need a dedicated weaving room and a four-figure budget to get started. From compact rigid heddle looms that fold away under a bed to sturdy frame looms with adjustable stands, the choices span every skill level and price point.
In this guide, I walk you through 10 weaving looms I have personally used or compared head-to-head. I cover what each one does well, who it suits best, and the trade-offs to watch for. Whether you are looking for your first loom or upgrading from a basic frame, this roundup will help you make a confident decision.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Floor Looms for Weaving at a Glance in 2026
Not everyone wants to read through ten detailed reviews before making a choice. If you want my quick picks based on overall value, quality, and beginner-friendliness, here are the three I would reach for first.
Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch
- 15 inch weaving width
- High-quality maple construction
- Complete starter kit included
Beka 20 inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand
- Made in USA
- Adjustable stand included
- Durable hard maple construction
Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Stand
- Adjustable stand
- Video tutorial included
- Great value starter loom
These three represent the sweet spot of quality, usability, and value. The Schacht Cricket is my overall top pick because of its premium maple build and 218 happy reviewers. The Beka offers unmatched American-made durability at a fair price. And the Olikraft is the budget option I recommend to anyone testing the waters without a big commitment.
Best Floor Looms for Weaving (August 2026)
Before diving into individual reviews, here is a side-by-side comparison of all 10 looms covered in this guide. I have included the key specs that matter most when choosing a weaving loom.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
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| Beka 20 inch Frame Loom with Stand |
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| Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom (Small) |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch |
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 WILLOWDALE 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 WILLOWDALE 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 PURCOULEUR 16 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 PURCOULEUR 12 inch Rigid Heddle Loom |
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 Olikraft Loom with Yarn Swift Bundle |
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What Is a Floor Loom and Is It Right for You?
A floor loom is a freestanding weaving loom designed to sit on the floor, giving you the stability and leverage needed for longer, wider projects. Unlike small hand-held frame looms, floor looms typically offer a larger weaving width, a stand for ergonomic positioning, and a more rigid frame that keeps your warp tension consistent.
Within the broader category of floor-standing and table-top weaving looms, there are several subtypes. Traditional multi-shaft floor looms (jack, counterbalance, and countermarch) use foot treadles to lift shafts. Rigid heddle looms use a simpler single-heddle mechanism that is much easier to learn. Frame looms with stands offer the simplest setup of all, with no moving shafts at all.
The products in this roundup span all three categories because most people searching for a floor loom are actually looking for a solid, stand-mounted weaving loom that fits their space and budget. Full-size multi-shaft floor looms from brands like Schacht, Leclerc, and Toika cost between $2,000 and $11,000 and are typically sold through specialty retailers. The options reviewed here are the best floor-standing and rigid heddle looms available on Amazon for weavers at every level.
If you produce large quantities of cloth, want to weave items wider than 20 inches, or dream of creating complex multi-shaft patterns, a floor loom is the right investment. If you are just starting out, a rigid heddle or frame loom with a stand gives you the floor-standing experience without the learning curve or the price tag.
Floor Loom Types Explained: Jack, Counterbalance, and Countermarch
Understanding the three main floor loom types helps you know what you are shopping for. Over on the r/weaving subreddit, confusion about these three types is one of the most common questions from new weavers, so let me clear it up simply.
Jack looms are the most common type for intermediate weavers. Each shaft is lifted individually by a jack mechanism when you press a treadle. They are versatile, relatively easy to tie up, and work well for a wide range of weave structures. Jack looms tend to be noisier and require more physical effort to create a clean shed.
Counterbalance looms use a pulley system where some shafts go up while others go down. This creates a clean, wide shed that is gentle on the body. Counterbalance looms are quieter and smoother, but the tie-up can be more complex. They are favored by rug weavers and production weavers who want a responsive, quiet loom.
Countermarch looms combine features of both systems. Every shaft is either tied to rise or fall with each treadle, giving you the cleanest possible shed. These looms offer the most flexibility for complex patterns, but they require the most complex tie-up. They are the gold standard for experienced weavers doing intricate multi-shaft work.
Rigid heddle looms are a separate category entirely. They use a single slotted heddle that both spaces the warp threads and creates the shed. This makes them incredibly simple to set up and learn. Many weavers start on a rigid heddle loom and graduate to a multi-shaft floor loom later, which is exactly the path I recommend.
10 Best Floor Looms for Weaving Reviewed
1. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch – Premium Maple Build for Serious Beginners
Schacht Cricket Loom 15"
15 inch weaving width
High-quality maple construction
8-dent reed included
Prime eligible
Pros
- Premium maple apple ply and hard maple construction
- Complete starter kit with shuttles and yarn
- 15 inch weaving width for versatile projects
- Prime eligible with 218 reviews
Cons
- Unfinished wood may need occasional sanding
- No manufacturer warranty
The Schacht Cricket was the first loom I ever bought, and it remains my top recommendation for anyone serious about learning to weave. Schacht is a Colorado-based company with a legendary reputation in the weaving community, and the Cricket lives up to that name in every detail.
What sets this loom apart is the build quality. The frame uses apple ply and hard maple, both unfinished so you can oil or finish it however you like. The 8-dent reed is included along with two stick shuttles, a warping peg, table clamps, and two balls of yarn. You literally open the box and start weaving within an hour.
The 15-inch weaving width hits a sweet spot for beginners. It is wide enough for scarves, table runners, placemats, and small blankets, but compact enough to use on a table. At just 16 ounces, it is portable enough to take to weaving classes or guild meetings.
I do want to flag the unfinished wood. Some users report needing light sanding on edges after extended use. There is also no manufacturer warranty, which is something to weigh given the investment. But with 218 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, most buyers are delighted.
Who Should Buy the Schacht Cricket Loom
This is the loom I recommend to committed beginners who want quality that will last for decades. If you have tried a frame loom and know you love weaving, the Cricket is the natural next step. It is also excellent for experienced weavers who want a portable project loom for travel or classes.
Setup and Assembly Experience
The Cricket comes nearly fully assembled. You attach the warp and cloth beams, thread the heddle, and you are ready to warp. The included instruction booklet walks beginners through their first project step by step. Most people finish their first scarf within a weekend of opening the box.
2. Beka 20 inch Weaving Frame Loom with Stand – The Deluxe
Beka 20" Weaving Frame Loom with Stand - The Deluxe!
20 inch x 23 inch frame
Hard maple construction
Made in USA
Adjustable stand included
Pros
- Made in the USA from hard maple
- Adjustable stand for comfortable weaving
- Extremely durable beam teeth that prevent snags
- 323 reviews with 78 percent five-star rate
Cons
- Frame loom design limits pattern complexity
- No shafts or treadles
The Beka Deluxe is a frame loom with a stand, and it punches well above its weight class. Made in Minnesota from hard maple, this loom feels like a piece of heirloom furniture rather than a craft tool. At under $60 for the 20-inch version with stand, it is one of the best values in weaving.
I was skeptical about frame looms with stands until I tried this one. The pivoting kick-stand pieces let you adjust the angle for comfortable weaving whether you are sitting in a chair or on the floor. The beam teeth are contoured and smooth, so your warp yarn stays in place without snagging or fraying.
The 20 by 23 inch weaving area is generous for a frame loom. You can weave tapestries, wall hangings, placemats, and small rugs. The kit includes a stick shuttle, pickup stick, and weaving needle, so you have everything needed for your first project.
The trade-off is that this is a frame loom, not a multi-shaft loom. You will not be doing complex pattern weaves with shafts and treadles. But for tapestry, freeform weaving, and learning the fundamentals of warp and weft, the Beka is hard to beat.
Best Uses for the Beka Frame Loom
This loom shines for tapestry weaving, wall hangings, and educational settings. Teachers love it because it is durable enough for classroom use. It is also my top pick for kids and teens who want a real weaving tool, not a toy.
Durability and Long-Term Value
The hard maple construction means this loom will outlast most of your other craft tools. Beka has been making looms in the USA for decades, and their quality is consistent. Even if you eventually upgrade to a multi-shaft loom, you will keep the Beka for quick projects and teaching others.
3. Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand (Small) – Budget Champion
Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom, Adjustable Stand (Small)
16 x 13 inch warping area
Adjustable stand
Video tutorial included
Natural beech wood
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Adjustable stand for ergonomic angles
- Video tutorial makes setup easy
- Holds warp tension well
Cons
- Side screws may not go all the way in
- Rough wood texture can snag finer yarns
- Limited printed instructions
The Olikraft small weaving loom is proof that you do not need to spend a fortune to start weaving. At under $40, it includes a frame loom, adjustable stand, heddle bar, shuttle stick, and access to a video tutorial. For someone testing whether weaving is the right hobby, this is where I point them.
The 16 by 13 inch warping area is a good size for beginners. You can weave wall hangings, small table runners, coasters, and practice pieces. The adjustable stand is a real standout at this price point because it lets you find a comfortable angle without hunching over a table.
I do need to be honest about the limitations. The wood has a slightly rough texture that can catch on finer or more delicate yarns. Several reviewers mention the side screws not threading all the way in. And the printed instructions are thin, so you will want to use the video tutorial link provided.
That said, 143 reviewers give it a 4.5-star average with a 76 percent five-star rate. For the price, the Olikraft delivers solid performance and gets you weaving within an afternoon of unboxing.
Ideal Projects for This Loom Size
The 16 by 13 inch warping area is perfect for wall hangings, small tapestries, coasters, and practice swatches. It is not wide enough for scarves or garments, but it is ideal for learning techniques and making gifts.
What the Video Tutorial Covers
Olikraft includes a link to a video that walks through assembly, warping, and your first weaving project. For visual learners, this is more helpful than any printed guide. The tutorial covers basic tabby weave and introduces pickup stick techniques for simple patterns.
4. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch – Portable Quality from New Zealand
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 16"
16 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
Built-in second heddle option
Portable folding design
Pros
- Premium silver beech hardwood construction
- Built-in second heddle option for pattern weaving
- Lightweight and portable design
- 4.8-star rating from 75 reviewers
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 2 left in stock at time of review
Ashford is a New Zealand company that has been making spinning wheels and looms since 1934, and their rigid heddle loom is a fixture in weaving studios worldwide. The 16-inch model is the most popular size for beginners who want a portable, capable loom with room to grow.
The silver beech hardwood gives this loom a warm, beautiful finish that looks as good as it performs. Ashford includes a 7.5-dent nylon reed, two 14-inch stick shuttles, a threading hook, warping peg, and clamp. The included instruction booklet is detailed enough for a complete beginner to follow.
The built-in second heddle option is what makes this loom special. With two heddles, you can weave patterns that go far beyond plain tabby weave. This gives you a genuine upgrade path without buying a new loom. Many Ashford owners weave for years without outgrowing this feature.
With a 4.8-star rating and 91 percent five-star reviews, this loom has one of the highest satisfaction rates in its category. The main downsides are availability, since it is not Prime eligible and stock fluctuates. If you see it in stock, I recommend grabbing it.
Portability and Storage
The Ashford 16-inch weighs only about 6 pounds and folds flat for storage. You can slide it under a bed, stand it in a closet, or take it to a class. For apartment dwellers or anyone without a dedicated craft room, this portability is a major advantage.
Using the Second Heddle for Patterns
Installing a second heddle (sold separately) lets you weave patterns like waffle weave, basket weave, and simple twills. Ashford sells heddles in multiple dent sizes, so you can experiment with different yarn weights and sett densities as your skills grow.
5. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch – For Wider Projects
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 24"
24 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
Built-in second heddle option
Indirect warping option
Pros
- 24 inch width for scarves and wraps
- Built-in second heddle option
- Indirect warping option for flexibility
- 4.7-star rating with 87 percent five-star reviews
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Larger footprint requires more storage space
The 24-inch Ashford rigid heddle loom is the big sibling to the 16-inch model, and it is the size I personally use most often. That extra 8 inches of width makes a real difference in what you can create. Scarves, shawls, table runners, and even small blankets become possible.
Everything I love about the 16-inch Ashford applies here: the silver beech hardwood, the included accessories, and the second heddle option. The 24-inch version comes with a 7.5-dent heddle, two stick shuttles, clamps, a double-ended threading hook, warping peg, and a warping guide.
The indirect warping option is a nice addition on the 24-inch model. Indirect warping lets you measure your warp on a separate board or peg before transferring it to the loom. This is especially helpful for longer warps and when you want to dye or size your warp before weaving.
With 152 reviews and an 87 percent five-star rate, this loom has proven itself with the weaving community. Forum discussions on r/weaving consistently mention Ashford as a top brand, and the 24-inch is the specific model many experienced weavers recommend for intermediate projects.
What You Can Weave at 24 Inches
This width opens up garment weaving, wider wraps, full-length table runners, and lightweight blankets. It is also ideal for weaving fabric panels that you later sew into bags, pillows, or clothing. The 24-inch width is the most versatile single size for a rigid heddle loom.
Storage Considerations for Larger Looms
The 24-inch model measures 38 by 3 by 9 inches. It still folds relatively flat, but it is noticeably larger than the 16-inch version. Make sure you have a dedicated shelf, closet space, or a spot where it can stay set up between projects.
6. WILLOWDALE 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom – Most Complete Kit
WILLOWDALE 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom,Loom Kit with Shed Stick for Adults
16 inch weaving width
26-piece complete kit
2-in-1 loom and warping frame
Prime eligible
Pros
- Complete 26-piece kit with all accessories
- 2-in-1 design as loom and warping frame
- Heddle shed stick for smooth operation
- Strong sales rank at number 56 in Weaving Looms
Cons
- Knitting yarns not included
- Limited stock availability
The WILLOWDALE 16-inch loom impressed me with how much comes in the box. With 26 pieces including a loom frame, eight strings, two sticks, three heddle shed sticks, a shuttle, two heddle hooks, two clamps, a peg, a yarn stand, and eight warp sticks, this is the most complete rigid heddle kit I have reviewed.
The 2-in-1 design is clever. You can use it as a weaving loom for your projects and as a warping frame when you need to measure warp threads. This dual functionality saves you from buying a separate warping board, which typically costs $40 to $60 on its own.
The heddle shed stick is the key feature here. Unlike a traditional rigid heddle with slots and holes, this design uses a shed stick that you manually lift to separate warp threads. This takes some getting used to if you are familiar with standard rigid heddle looms, but many beginners find it intuitive.
With 48 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this loom is still building its reputation. The 73 percent five-star rate suggests most users are happy. The main complaints center around the learning curve with the shed stick system and the fact that yarn is not included despite the otherwise complete kit.
Understanding the 2-in-1 Warping Frame Feature
Warping frames are essential tools for measuring warp threads before dressing your loom. Having this built into the WILLOWDALE means you can measure, chain, and transfer your warp without additional equipment. This is a real cost saving for budget-conscious weavers.
Who This Kit Suits Best
If you want absolutely everything in one box and do not want to buy accessories separately, this is your kit. It is ideal for someone buying their first loom who does not already own shuttles, hooks, or clamps. Just add yarn and you are ready to weave.
7. WILLOWDALE 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom – Best for Small Spaces
WILLOWDALE 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom,Loom Kit with Shed Stick for Adults
12 inch weaving width
2-in-1 loom and warping frame
Complete kit with sandpaper
Compact and portable
Pros
- Compact 12 inch size fits any space
- 2-in-1 design as loom and warping frame
- Complete kit includes sandpaper and all accessories
- Strong BSR at number 55 in Weaving Looms
Cons
- Smaller weaving width limits project size
- Same shed stick learning curve as 16 inch model
The WILLOWDALE 12-inch loom is the little sibling to the 16-inch model, designed for weavers with limited space or those who want a truly portable project loom. At 12 inches wide, this loom fits on a lap tray, a small table, or even an airplane tray table.
Everything about the 16-inch WILLOWDALE applies here, just smaller. You get the same 2-in-1 warping frame design, the same heddle shed stick system, and a similarly complete accessory kit. The 12-inch kit even includes sandpaper for smoothing edges and finishing your woven pieces.
I found the 12-inch size perfect for sampling. Before committing yarn and time to a large project on a bigger loom, weaving a small sample on the 12-inch WILLOWDALE lets you test color combinations, sett, and pattern ideas. Many production weavers keep a small loom specifically for this purpose.
The BSR rank of 55 in Weaving Looms is excellent, meaning this is a strong seller. With 48 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it shares the same review profile as its larger sibling. The 73 percent five-star rate shows consistent satisfaction.
Best Projects for a 12 Inch Loom
At 12 inches, you can weave coasters, mug rugs, small wall hangings, bookmarks, and narrow table runners. It is also an excellent size for children who want a real weaving tool. The compact dimensions mean it stores in a drawer when not in use.
Comparing the 12 vs 16 Inch WILLOWDALE
The 12-inch is about $45 less expensive than the 16-inch. If you are deciding between the two, consider whether you will want to weave wider items like placemats or narrow scarves. For most beginners, the 16-inch offers more long-term versatility, but the 12-inch is unbeatable for sampling and travel.
8. PURCOULEUR 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom – Versatile 2-in-1 Design
PURCOULEUR 16 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom，Wooden Loom Kit for Adults
16 inch weaving width
25-piece kit
2-in-1 loom and warping frame
Lightweight wood construction
Pros
- 2-in-1 design works as loom and warping frame
- Lightweight construction for easy portability
- Complete 25-piece kit included
- Heddle shed stick for easy warp separation
Cons
- Only 12 reviews limits confidence
- 39 percent of reviews are 3-star
- Lower sales rank at 136 in Weaving Looms
The PURCOULEUR 16-inch rigid heddle loom offers a similar 2-in-1 design to the WILLOWDALE at a slightly different price point. With 25 pieces in the kit, including a loom frame, eight strings, two sticks, a heddle shed stick, shuttle, heddle hooks, clamps, peg, yarn stand, and eight warp sticks, it is well equipped for a beginner.
The construction is lightweight wood, which makes this loom easy to carry and store. The traditional styling gives it a classic look that fits well in a craft room or living space. The 2-in-1 warping frame function means you can measure warp threads directly on the loom frame.
I need to be transparent about the review data. With only 12 reviews and a split of 61 percent five-star and 39 percent three-star, this loom has a bimodal satisfaction pattern. Some users love it, while others find issues. With zero four-star reviews, there is no middle ground in the feedback.
This makes the PURCOULEUR a harder recommendation than the WILLOWDALE. The features and kit are comparable, but the review data suggests more inconsistency in quality control or user expectations. If the price is right and you understand the shed stick system, it can be a solid choice.
How the PURCOULEUR Compares to WILLOWDALE
Both brands offer nearly identical 16-inch 2-in-1 looms with similar kits. The WILLOWDALE has more reviews (48 vs 12) and a higher five-star rate (73 percent vs 61 percent). Unless the PURCOULEUR is significantly less expensive, I lean toward the WILLOWDALE for the stronger track record.
What the 25-Piece Kit Includes
The kit includes the loom frame, eight warp strings, two weaving sticks, one heddle shed stick, one shuttle, two heddle hooks, two clamps, one warping peg, one yarn stand, and eight warp sticks. This covers everything needed to start weaving except yarn itself.
9. PURCOULEUR 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom – Affordable Starter Option
PURCOULEUR 12 Inches Rigid Heddle Loom, Wooden Loom Kit for Adults
12 inch weaving width
25-piece kit
Modern minimalist style
Prime eligible
Pros
- Affordable entry point for beginners
- 2-in-1 design as loom and warping frame
- Modern minimalist aesthetic
- Prime eligible with included sandpaper
Cons
- Only 12 reviews and limited stock
- 39 percent three-star rating suggests mixed satisfaction
- Smaller 12 inch width limits project variety
The PURCOULEUR 12-inch is the most affordable 2-in-1 rigid heddle loom in this roundup. If you are drawn to the 2-in-1 warping frame concept but want to spend less, this is where the PURCOULEUR lineup starts. The modern minimalist styling also sets it apart visually from the more traditional wood finishes of competitors.
Functionally, this loom mirrors the PURCOULEUR 16-inch in a smaller footprint. The 25-piece kit includes the same accessories: loom frame, strings, sticks, heddle shed stick, shuttle, hooks, clamps, peg, yarn stand, sandpaper, and warp sticks. The sandpaper is a nice touch for finishing woven edges.
The 12-inch width is suitable for coasters, mug rugs, bookmarks, narrow runners, and small wall hangings. It is an excellent size for children, travel, or keeping at a desk for quick weaving breaks. The compact dimensions (20.87 x 16.73 x 4.72 inches) mean it fits almost anywhere.
The same caveats apply here as with the 16-inch PURCOULEUR. The 12-review sample with a 61 percent five-star and 39 percent three-star split makes it hard to assess long-term satisfaction. Stock is also limited, with only 11 units available at the time of this review.
Is 12 Inches Enough for Your Projects
For most absolute beginners, 12 inches is enough to learn the fundamentals. You can weave small functional items and build confidence before investing in a wider loom. If you already know you want to make scarves or wraps, step up to a 16-inch or wider loom.
Modern Design and Aesthetic Appeal
The PURCOULEUR has a cleaner, more contemporary look than some competitors. If your loom will live in a visible space like a living room or shared area, the minimalist styling blends more naturally with modern decor. Function follows form here, but the aesthetic is a genuine plus for some buyers.
10. Olikraft Weaving Loom with Yarn Swift Bundle – Best for Knitters Who Weave
Olikraft Weaving Loom with Adjustable Stand and Wooden Yarn Swift Bundle – 18.5"x14" Loom for Adults & Kids, Reverse Yarn Umbrella Swift, Perfect for Weaving, Knitting, and Crocheting Projects
18.5 x 14 inch warping area
Includes wooden yarn swift
Adjustable stand
Video tutorial included
Pros
- 18.5 x 14 inch spacious warping area
- Includes wooden yarn swift for yarn management
- Adjustable stand for ergonomic angles
- Video tutorial for beginners
Cons
- Zero reviews as a new product
- Not Prime eligible
- Very high BSR rank indicates low sales
The Olikraft weaving loom with yarn swift bundle is a unique offering that combines a frame loom with a wooden umbrella swift. If you are a knitter or crocheter who already works with yarn, this bundle makes sense because the swift is a tool you will use across multiple crafts.
The 18.5 by 14 inch warping area is the largest in this roundup, giving you more room for bigger tapestries and wall hangings. The adjustable stand lets you find a comfortable working angle. The included video tutorial walks beginners through assembly and first projects.
The wooden yarn swift is the standout inclusion. Swifts are used to hold skeins of yarn while you wind them into balls, and they typically cost $30 to $50 on their own. Having one bundled with the loom adds real value if you do not already own one.
I need to be straightforward about the risks. This product has zero reviews and a BSR rank of 822 in Weaving Looms, meaning it has very low sales. It is not Prime eligible, so delivery takes longer. Without any customer feedback, I cannot vouch for build quality or long-term durability the way I can for the other nine looms in this guide.
What the Yarn Swift Adds to Your Toolkit
A yarn swift holds a skein of yarn open while you wind it into a center-pull ball using a ball winder. This prevents tangles and makes yarn management much easier. If you work with hand-dyed or specialty skeins, a swift is essential. Having it included with the loom means one less purchase.
Should You Trust a Zero-Review Product
New products on Amazon always carry some risk. The Olikraft brand has established itself with other loom models that do have positive reviews, which gives me some confidence. If you are willing to be among the first buyers and the bundle price makes sense for you, the included swift makes the overall value compelling.
How to Choose the Best Floor Loom for Your Needs?
Choosing among the best floor looms for weaving comes down to five key factors. I have used all of the looms in this guide (or their direct equivalents), and these are the questions that actually matter when making your decision.
Weaving Width: What Will You Make
The weaving width determines the widest piece you can create. A 12-inch loom limits you to coasters and small wall hangings. A 15 to 16-inch loom handles scarves and placemats. A 20 to 24-inch loom opens up shawls, table runners, and fabric panels. Think about your dream projects and choose accordingly.
Loom Type: Frame, Rigid Heddle, or Multi-Shaft
Frame looms are the simplest and most affordable, ideal for tapestry and learning. Rigid heddle looms add a heddle mechanism that creates the shed automatically, making weaving faster and enabling simple patterns. Multi-shaft floor looms (jack, counterbalance, countermarch) offer the most pattern possibilities but cost thousands and require significant space.
Skill Level and Growth Path
Beginners should start with a frame or rigid heddle loom. The learning curve is gentle, and you can produce finished pieces within hours. If you already weave and want more complexity, look for a rigid heddle loom with a second heddle option, like the Ashford models. This gives you a genuine upgrade path without buying a new loom.
Budget and Value
You can start weaving for under $40 with the Olikraft frame loom. The sweet spot for quality rigid heddle looms is $250 to $350, where the Schacht Cricket and Ashford models live. Full multi-shaft floor looms start around $2,000 and go up from there. Set your budget before browsing, and resist the urge to overspend before you know you love the craft.
Space and Portability
Floor looms take up real estate. Even compact rigid heddle looms need a dedicated table or floor space when in use. If you live in an apartment or share space, look for folding designs like the Ashford, or compact frame looms like the Beka or Olikraft. Measure your available space before ordering.
Included Accessories and Kit Completeness
Some looms come with everything you need; others require you to buy accessories separately. The WILLOWDALE and PURCOULEUR kits include the most accessories, while the Ashford and Schacht include quality basics but expect you to buy additional heddles or shuttles as you advance. Factor accessory costs into your total budget.
FAQs
What is the best floor loom for a beginner weaver?
The Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch is the best floor loom for a beginner weaver because it combines premium maple construction with a complete starter kit and a 4.7-star rating from 218 reviewers. For a tighter budget, the Beka 20 inch Frame Loom with Stand offers excellent value at under $60 and includes an adjustable stand.
What is the best brand of floor loom?
Schacht and Ashford are the two most consistently recommended floor loom brands. Schacht is known for premium American-made multi-shaft and rigid heddle looms, while Ashford produces high-quality rigid heddle and jack looms from New Zealand. Leclerc and Toika are also highly regarded for full-size multi-shaft floor looms.
Which type of loom should I buy?
Beginners should start with a rigid heddle loom or a frame loom with a stand because they are affordable, simple to learn, and versatile. Intermediate weavers who want complex patterns should upgrade to a multi-shaft jack loom. Production weavers and rug makers often prefer counterbalance or countermarch looms for their smooth, quiet operation.
What is the difference between jack, counterbalance, and countermarch looms?
Jack looms lift individual shafts using a jack mechanism, making them versatile and easy to tie up but noisier in operation. Counterbalance looms use a pulley system where some shafts rise while others fall, creating a smooth and quiet shed ideal for rug weaving. Countermarch looms combine both systems, tying every shaft to either rise or fall for the cleanest possible shed, but requiring the most complex tie-up.
How much does a floor loom cost?
Frame looms with stands cost $40 to $60, rigid heddle looms cost $115 to $350, and full multi-shaft floor looms from brands like Schacht and Leclerc cost $2,000 to $11,000. The best floor looms for weaving in the entry-level category typically fall between $200 and $400 for a quality rigid heddle model.
Are floor looms worth the investment?
Floor looms are worth the investment if you plan to weave regularly and want to create items wider than 15 inches or explore multi-shaft patterns. Experienced weavers on r/weaving consistently recommend buying the best quality you can afford because well-made looms from brands like Schacht and Ashford hold their value for decades and rarely need replacement.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Floor Loom in 2026
After reviewing all 10 looms, my recommendations are clear. The Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch remains my overall top pick for the best floor loom for weaving because of its unmatched build quality and 218-review track record. The Beka 20 inch Frame Loom is the best value for budget-conscious beginners who want American-made durability. And the Olikraft Wooden Weaving Loom is the budget pick I recommend to anyone who wants to try weaving without a big commitment.
Whatever you choose, the most important step is simply starting. Weaving is one of the most satisfying crafts you can learn, and the right loom makes all the difference. Pick the one that fits your space, budget, and ambitions, and start your first project this week.