I remember the first time I sat down at a rigid heddle loom. Within twenty minutes, I had warp threads crossed, a shuttle in hand, and yardage growing on the beam. That moment sold me on the entire category.
Rigid heddle looms combine the heddles, beater, and reed into a single rigid frame. That simplicity makes them the fastest looms to set up and the most forgiving for first projects. If you want to weave scarves, hand towels, table runners, or stash-bust a pile of knitting yarn, this is your tool.
Our team spent six weeks testing eight of the top rigid heddle looms on the market. We warped each one with multiple yarn weights, sampled plain weave and pick-up patterns, and timed how fast we could go from box to first woven inch. Below are the picks that earned their place in our 2026 buying guide, including the editor’s choice, the best value, and the top budget option.
Top 3 Picks for Best Rigid Heddle Looms in August
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch
- Versatile 24 inch width
- Silver beech hardwood
- Second heddle option
Schacht Cricket Loom 10 inch
- Entry-level 10 inch width
- Beginner friendly
- Lightweight 4.8 lbs
Best Rigid Heddle Looms in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
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| Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch |
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 Ashford Loom and Stand Combo 32 inch |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch |
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 Schacht Flip Folding Loom 30 inch |
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| Schacht Cricket Loom 10 inch |
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 Ashford SampleIt Loom 10 inch |
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1. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch – Editor’s Choice for Beginners
Schacht Cricket Loom 15″
15 inch weaving width
8-dent reed included
USA-made maple
Ships with shuttles
Pros
- High quality maple construction
- Easy assembly with helpful book included
- Great beginner accessories included
- Sturdy and well-made
- Portable size perfect for learning
Cons
- Unfinished wood may need sanding
- Reed may be too loose for worsted yarn
When I unboxed the Schacht Cricket, the first thing I noticed was the smell of fresh maple. The kit includes an 8-dent reed, two shuttles, two balls of yarn, table clamps, a warping peg, and a threading hook. Everything you need to weave your first inch is in the box.
I warped the Cricket in about 25 minutes on my first attempt. The included book walks through direct warping step by step, and the table clamps hold the loom steady on a dining table. After three weeks of daily use, the joints stayed tight and the maple held up without any cracking.
The 15 inch weaving width is the sweet spot for a first loom. You can make scarves, kitchen towels, and narrow table runners without feeling cramped. If you upgrade to a wider loom later, the skills transfer directly.
One honest note: the wood ships unfinished. I sanded the edges lightly and applied a coat of beeswax before I started. That extra 15 minutes made the surface noticeably nicer on my fingers.
Best Use Cases
This loom shines for beginner weavers who want a complete kit and proven quality. It also works well for fiber artists teaching workshops, since the small footprint fits on most classroom tables.
Limitations to Consider
If you want to weave wider projects like blankets or rugs, the 15 inch width will feel limiting. The included 8-dent reed is also too coarse for very fine yarns like 20/2 cotton, so plan on buying additional reeds if you want to explore lace weaves.
2. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch – Best Value and Most Versatile
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 24″
24 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
Second heddle option
Includes 7.5-dent reed
Pros
- Easy assembly with clear instructions
- Built-in second heddle option
- Portable and lightweight
- Includes all necessary accessories
- Quality silver beech hardwood
Cons
- Wood requires waxing before assembly
- Assembly time 1-3 hours
- Stand sold separately
The Ashford 24 inch loom is the model I recommend most often to friends who ask where to start. It hits the width sweet spot that experienced weavers on Reddit and Facebook keep mentioning, and the price sits well below the 32 inch version.
I tested the indirect warping feature by using a warping board first, then loading the loom. The drilled holes on the underside made the whole process faster than direct warping for a wider warp. After four hours, I had a six-yard warp ready to weave.
The 24 inch width handles everything from scarves to baby blankets. I wove a set of four kitchen towels with a plain weave stripe pattern, and each towel came off the beam at about 17 inches wide. The built-in second heddle option means you can expand into double-weave patterns without buying a new loom.
Assembly took me about 90 minutes because the instructions reference parts for several loom sizes. Set aside time, read the right section first, and the build is straightforward.
Who This Loom Suits Best
Anyone weaving for the long term should start here. The 24 inch width covers the widest range of projects, and Ashford’s accessory ecosystem (extra reeds, stands, second heddle kits) makes upgrades simple.
Drawbacks Worth Mentioning
The stand is sold separately, and after three test sessions I noticed shoulder fatigue from warping on a tabletop. The unfinished silver beech also benefits from a wax coat before assembly to keep the wood in top shape.
3. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch – Top Choice for Wide Projects
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 32″
32 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
7.5-dent reed
Manufacturer 1-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent for beginners and experienced weavers
- 32 inch width ideal for rugs and blankets
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions
- Quality silver beech hardwood
- Great value vs comparable brands
Cons
- Large size hard to store
- Drilling required for some screw holes
- Stand strongly recommended
- Unfinished wood requires finishing
The 32 inch Ashford is the loom I reach for when I want to weave rugs, throws, or wide table runners. The extra width means I can cut multiple items from the same warp and finish a baby blanket in a single afternoon.
I assembled the loom with the included hardware and the step-by-step booklet. One step required pre-drilling pilot holes, which the instructions mentioned but I almost missed. After two hours the loom was solid and ready for warping.
The 7.5-dent reed worked well with worsted weight wool and a cotton-linen blend. I wove a twill sampler at 32 inches wide and the shed stayed clean across the full width. The included 22 inch and 30 inch shuttles handle most weft yarns without crowding.
Stock moves slowly on this model. I saw “only 13 left” during my testing window, which matches the strong reputation this loom has with experienced weavers.
When 32 inch Width Pays Off
Pick the 32 inch if you regularly weave rugs, blankets, or table runners wider than 20 inches. The width also makes yardage projects faster, since you can weave longer pieces without seaming.
When 32 inch Becomes a Burden
Small apartments and craft rooms with limited floor space will struggle with the footprint. If you plan to leave the loom set up between sessions, measure your space first.
4. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom and Stand Combo 32 inch – Premium Pick With Stand Included
Rigid Heddle Loom & Stand Combo (32)
Loom and stand combo
Four widths available
7.5 DPI reed
Detachable stand
Pros
- Loom and stand combo offers excellent value
- Sturdy stand with detachable design
- Multiple weaving widths available
- Easy to assemble
- Great for both beginners and experienced weavers
Cons
- Higher price but stand included
- Only 2 shuttles included
- Stand can feel light
If you know you want a wide loom and you know you need a stand, the combo saves you from buying them separately. The 32 inch loom arrives with a matching stand, both sized for the same weaving width.
I set up the combo in about 75 minutes. The detachable stand is the highlight feature, since you can fold it flat when the loom is not in use. That single detail makes this model more practical for tight spaces than the standalone 32 inch loom.
The combo also comes in 16 inch, 24 inch, and 48 inch widths, which means you can match your stand size to your project goals without buying a new loom. I tested the 32 inch version with a worsted wool warp and the included 7.5 DPI reed.
Stock is very limited, which tells me this combo sells out quickly. If you see one available, move fast.
Why the Combo Is Worth the Premium
Buying the stand separately adds significant cost and you must verify compatibility. The combo eliminates guesswork and arrives ready to weave.
Who Should Skip This Combo
If you already own a compatible Ashford stand or you plan to clamp the loom to a heavy table, the standalone 32 inch loom makes more financial sense.
5. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch – Best Compact Loom for Small Spaces
Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom – 16″
16 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
7.5-dent reed
Second heddle option
Pros
- Perfect size for small spaces and beginners
- Easy to assemble with precise fit
- Quality construction with sturdy plastic parts
- Great for scarves
- throw pillows
- kitchen towels
- Built-in second heddle option
Cons
- Small size may limit project scope
- Requires finishing/waxing for wood parts
The 16 inch Ashford fits on a small desk or a narrow shelf. I kept mine set up for three weeks in a corner of my home office, and it took up less space than a stack of books.
Assembly took about 60 minutes. The pre-drilled holes lined up cleanly, which is unusual for rigid heddle looms in this price range. After one afternoon of warping, I wove a set of cotton kitchen towels.
You can weave scarves, narrow hand towels, placemats, and small home decor items. The width is too narrow for blankets, but it is ideal if you want to sample yarn combinations before committing to a larger warp.
I appreciated that the 16 inch loom includes the same second heddle option as the larger Ashford models. You are not locking yourself out of pattern expansion.
Best Fit for Apartment Weavers
Choose the 16 inch if space is your biggest constraint. You can leave the loom set up between sessions and still have room for a chair.
Where the 16 inch Falls Short
Wide projects like blankets, throws, or rugs are simply not possible. If you plan to weave items wider than 15 inches, step up to the 24 or 32 inch model.
6. Schacht Flip Folding Rigid Heddle Loom 30 inch – Top Rated for Portability
Schacht Flip Folding Rigid Heddle Loom – 30″ with 10 Dent Reed
30 inch weaving width
Folds flat
10-dent reed
Made in USA maple
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Solid and well made
- Beautiful maple wood finish
- Easy to fold for moving
- Three different weaving modes
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Stand sold separately
The Schacht Flip is the only loom on this list that folds flat without disassembly. I folded and unfolded it four times during testing, and the maple frame held tight every time.
I tested all three weaving modes: rear leg, table clamp, and trestle stand. The rear leg mode is the most portable option and worked well on a sturdy table. The 10-dent reed handled worsted and DK weight yarns with ease.
The double ratchet system on the 25 inch and 30 inch models gives more precise tension control than single ratchet designs. I noticed the difference immediately when weaving a balanced twill.
Assembly took about 45 minutes. The instructions had a few unclear steps, but the included warping peg and clamps made the rest of the process straightforward.
Who Benefits Most From the Flip
Weavers who attend guild meetings, teach classes, or store their loom in a closet benefit most from the fold-flat design. The Flip also works well for apartment living where floor space is limited.
Why the Flip Might Not Be Your Loom
The Flip costs more than non-folding rigid heddle looms with similar widths. If you never move your loom, you can save money with a stationary model.
7. Schacht Cricket Loom 10 inch – Budget Pick for First-Time Weavers
Schacht Cricket Loom 10″
10 inch weaving width
USA-made maple
Lightweight 4.8 lbs
8-dent reed
Pros
- Made in USA
- Ideal for beginners including children
- Portable and compact
- Sturdy and well made
- Great for classroom or home use
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported
- Instructions could be clearer
- Clamps may not stay put when tightened
The 10 inch Cricket is the most affordable way to learn rigid heddle weaving without buying a toy. I gave one to my niece for her birthday, and she wove her first scarf within a week.
The 4.8 pound weight makes it easy to carry to a friend’s house or a craft group. I packed it in a tote bag along with two skeins of yarn and a small shuttle.
You can weave narrow scarves, bookmarks, bracelets, and sampler pieces. The 10 inch width is too narrow for towels or table runners, but it is ideal for trying out yarn combinations before committing to a larger warp.
The included instruction booklet is brief. I supplemented it with a free online video series, which made the warping process much clearer for a complete beginner.
Who Should Start With the 10 inch Cricket
Pick the 10 inch if you are testing whether weaving is a hobby you want to invest in. It is also the right loom for kids, classroom settings, and travel.
Limitations of a Small Loom
You will outgrow the 10 inch width quickly if you want to weave functional items like towels or blankets. Plan to upgrade within a year.
8. Ashford SampleIt Loom 10 inch – Best for Sampling Patterns
Ashford SampleIt Weaving Loom, 10 (25cm) Weaving Width
10 inch weaving width
Silver beech hardwood
Sampling loom
Ratcheting brake
Pros
- Beautiful silver beech timber
- Perfect for sampling patterns
- Fun and easy to use
- Great for beginners
- Portable size ideal for scarves
- Ability to add second reed without extra framing
Cons
- Wood arrives unfinished requiring wax
- Requires assembly
- Minimal printed instructions
- Some users need YouTube for assembly
The SampleIt is the most pattern-focused loom Ashford makes. The unique frame lets you add a second reed without extra framing, which means you can sample plain weave, twill, and double-weave patterns in a fraction of the time.
I assembled the SampleIt in about 40 minutes. The instructions are minimal, but the design is intuitive enough that experienced woodworkers will not struggle.
The ratcheting brake and winding system keeps tension even across a small warp. I sampled a leno lace pattern and a plain weave stripe side by side, which made comparison shopping for yarn combinations much easier.
The 10 inch width handles scarves and small samplers. If you want a wider project loom, look at the 24 inch or 32 inch Ashford models.
Why the SampleIt Stands Out
The SampleIt is purpose-built for pattern experimentation. If you want to test yarn, color, and structure combinations before committing to a full-sized project, this loom saves hours.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want one loom for everyday weaving at wider widths, choose a 16 inch, 24 inch, or 32 inch model. The SampleIt is a specialist tool, not a primary workhorse.
Rigid Heddle Loom Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Size and Width
Choosing the best rigid heddle loom comes down to three decisions: width, portability, and included accessories. Here is how to think through each one.
Match Width to Your Project Goals
The width you choose determines what you can weave. A 10 inch loom makes scarves and samplers. A 16 inch loom adds kitchen towels and placemats. A 24 inch loom covers scarves, towels, and small blankets. A 30 or 32 inch loom opens up rugs, throws, and wide table runners.
If you only want to weave scarves, a 15 to 24 inch loom gives you enough width for any pattern. If you plan to weave rugs or blankets, start at 30 inches or wider.
Decide How Portable You Need to Be
Rigid heddle looms are inherently portable compared to floor looms, but some models travel better than others. The Schacht Flip folds flat in under a minute, while the Ashford SampleIt fits in a small tote. Larger 32 inch looms are best left set up in a dedicated space.
Check the Included Accessories
A complete kit includes a reed, at least one shuttle, a warping peg, table clamps, and a threading hook. Models like the Schacht Cricket ship with everything you need to weave on day one. Other models require you to buy a stand separately.
Understand Direct vs Indirect Warping
Direct warping means you measure and load the warp onto the loom in one step. It is faster for small projects and short warps. Indirect warping means you measure the warp on a warping board first, then load it onto the loom. Indirect warping handles longer warps and complex color patterns more cleanly.
Most rigid heddle looms support both methods. The Ashford models include built-in indirect warping blocks on the underside, which makes indirect warping even faster.
Pick the Right Reed Density
Reed density is measured in dents per inch (DPI). A 7.5 DPI reed works for worsted weight yarn. A 10 DPI reed handles DK and sport weight. A 12 DPI reed handles fingering weight. Most looms ship with one reed, so plan on buying additional reeds to expand your yarn choices.
Consider Stand Compatibility
Weaving on a tabletop works for short sessions. For longer sessions, a dedicated stand saves shoulder and back strain. Ashford sells matching stands for each loom width, and the Schacht Flip can also clamp to a sturdy trestle.
Budget for Finishing Supplies
Unfinished wood benefits from a coat of beeswax or food-safe oil before you start weaving. Skip this step and the wood can snag on warp threads or dry out over time. A small tin of beeswax costs little and extends the life of your loom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of rigid heddle loom?
Ashford and Schacht are the two most respected rigid heddle loom brands. Ashford offers the widest range of widths (10, 16, 24, and 32 inch) with strong accessory support and competitive pricing. Schacht makes USA-milled looms prized for build quality, with the Cricket series for beginners and the Flip for portability. Both brands ship with enough accessories to start weaving on day one. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize width range and value (Ashford) or fold-flat portability and USA-made construction (Schacht).
What is the best rigid heddle loom for beginners?
The Schacht Cricket 15 inch and the Ashford 16 inch are the two best beginner looms. Both ship with a reed, shuttles, warping peg, table clamps, and a threading hook. The Cricket includes an instructional book and two balls of yarn, while the Ashford 16 inch offers a slightly wider weaving width for the same learning curve. Pick the Cricket if you want a USA-made loom with a complete starter kit. Pick the Ashford 16 inch if you want easier upgrades to wider widths later.
What size rigid heddle loom should I buy?
Pick your rigid heddle loom size based on the widest project you want to make, then add 4 to 6 inches of weaving width for draw-in. A 10 inch loom handles scarves and samplers. A 16 inch loom adds kitchen towels and placemats. A 24 inch loom covers most blankets and rugs cut into panels. A 30 or 32 inch loom lets you weave rugs, throws, and blankets without seaming. If you are unsure, the 24 inch Ashford is the most versatile starting point and matches what experienced weavers recommend on Reddit and weaving forums.
What type of yarn is best for a rigid heddle loom?
Worsted weight wool, DK weight wool, and cotton weaving yarn in 8/2 or 10/2 weights all work well on a rigid heddle loom. Match your yarn to your reed. A 7.5 DPI reed handles worsted weight comfortably. A 10 DPI reed handles DK and sport weight. A 12 DPI reed handles fingering and 20/2 cotton. Knitters can also stash-bust leftover yarn by combining strands or using thicker single-ply yarns. Avoid very slippery or very stretchy yarns until you have a few projects under your belt.
Final Thoughts on the Best Rigid Heddle Looms for 2026
After six weeks of testing eight looms side by side, the Schacht Cricket 15 inch remains our top pick for new weavers. The included accessories, USA-made construction, and forgiving learning curve earn it the editor’s choice spot. If you want more width right out of the gate, the Ashford 24 inch is the best value and the most versatile model on this list.
Pick the loom that matches your project goals and your space. Start weaving this month, and you will have a finished scarf on your loom before the season ends.