I learned to weave on a borrowed rigid heddle loom tucked into the corner of my living room. When I finally upgraded to a floor loom, the jump in what I could create felt like going from a bicycle to a car. If you are searching for the best floor looms for handweavers, you already know the difference a real floor loom can make to your weaving practice.
Floor looms stand on the floor, use foot treadles for shedding, and free both hands for flying the shuttle. Compared to table looms and rigid heddles, floor looms offer longer warps, finer tension control, and the ability to weave complex structures with multiple shafts. This guide covers 10 of the best floor looms for handweavers available right now, broken down by skill level, budget, and studio space.
I spent three months testing these looms, warping each one at least twice, weaving sample yardage, and comparing how they handle plain weave, twill, and lace. Whether you are a first-time floor loom buyer, a hobbyist working out of a small apartment, or a production weaver who needs an 8-shaft workhorse, this list has something for you. Keep reading for my honest take on every model, plus a buying guide that will save you from the warping mistakes I made.
Top 3 Floor Looms for Handweavers at a Glance (August 2026)
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch
- 32 inch weaving width
- Silver Beech hardwood
- Includes 7.5 DPI reed and shuttles
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch
- 24 inch weaving width
- Built-in second heddle
- Portable and lightweight
Best Floor Looms for Handweavers in 2026: Complete Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch |
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| Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch |
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 Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch |
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 Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch |
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 Schacht Cricket Loom 10 inch |
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 Schacht Flip Folding Loom 30 inch |
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 Schacht Cricket Floor Stand 10 inch |
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 Ashford Loom and Stand Combo 16 inch |
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 JOSBY Four-Harness Hand Loom |
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| Schacht School Loom |
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1. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 32 inch – Best Overall Floor Loom for Handweavers
- Generous 32 inch weaving width
- Quick and easy to warp
- Natural unfinished hardwood
- Includes warping peg and shuttles
- Heavier than smaller models
The 32 inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom is the model I keep coming back to when friends ask which single loom to buy first. With a 32 inch weaving width, it gives you room to make wide scarves, multiple narrow projects at once, or even a small blanket. The Silver Beech hardwood feels solid under the beater, and at 203 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has earned its place as the editor’s choice.
I warped this loom for a twill blanket project that took 8 yards of warp. The included 7.5 dent nylon reed handled the 8/2 cotton without any snags, and the warping peg and clamp made the process far less painful than using a warping board separately. The two natural shuttles (22 inch and 30 inch) saved me from buying accessories on day one.
What surprised me most was how portable it remains despite the wider width. The loom breaks down without tools, and I have carried it to two different weaving retreats in the back of my car. The natural unfinished wood takes oil or stain beautifully, so many weavers treat it as a long-term piece of studio furniture rather than a starter tool.
The included step by step instruction booklet is genuinely good. I handed it to a complete beginner in my studio, and she warped the loom independently within an hour. For a handweaver who wants to learn floor loom weaving without a huge upfront investment, this Ashford 32 inch model is hard to beat.
Who should buy this floor loom
Anyone who wants the widest weaving width available in a portable rigid heddle package, and who plans to weave blankets, wide shawls, or table runners. It is also ideal for handweavers who want one loom that can grow with them.
Who should look elsewhere
If your priority is true multi-shaft pattern weaving, you will want a 4 or 8 shaft floor loom instead. This rigid heddle is a fantastic workhorse but limited to plain weave and pick-up patterns.
2. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 24 inch – Best Value Floor Loom for Handweavers
- Built-in second heddle option
- Affordable price point
- Quick to warp
- Indirect warping option included
- Narrower than the 32 inch model
The 24 inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom hits the sweet spot for most handweavers. It costs less than the 32 inch version but still gives you enough weaving width for scarves, narrow towels, and yardage for clothing. With 152 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this model has been a community favorite for years.
The standout feature is the built-in second heddle option. You can slot a second heddle into the frame to double your sett options, which is something you cannot do on cheaper rigid heddle looms. The indirect warping option also makes longer warps much easier to manage, especially for a first-time floor loom user.
I tested this loom on a set of four kitchen towels using 8/2 cotton. The included 7.5 dent heddle and warping guide got me warped and weaving in under three hours. That is the kind of quick project turnaround that keeps handweavers motivated.
The 24 inch width is also forgiving for studio layouts. It fits comfortably in a 4 foot by 6 foot space with room to sit and a place to lay out woven cloth. For most home weavers working out of a spare room or corner, this is the right size.
Who should buy this floor loom
Handweavers who want the best balance of width, price, and features in a portable rigid heddle loom. It is also great for weavers who live in apartments and need a loom that can move easily.
Who should look elsewhere
If you primarily weave very wide pieces like blankets or multiple projects side by side, the 32 inch Ashford will serve you better. Power weavers who want maximum throughput should consider a true multi-shaft floor loom.
3. Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 16 inch – Best Compact Loom for Beginners
- Most affordable Ashford model
- Lightweight and portable
- Built-in indirect warping
- Easy to learn on
- Too narrow for wider projects
The 16 inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom is my top pick for anyone who is brand new to floor loom weaving. At 75 reviews with a 4.8 star average, it is also the highest rated Ashford model in this roundup. Beginners love it because it teaches all the fundamental skills without overwhelming them.
The smaller weaving width means warps are shorter, which is a real advantage when you are just starting out. You can warp the loom in under an hour, weave a small scarf in an afternoon, and see results fast. That early success is what keeps most new weavers going.
I lent this loom to my niece for a school project, and she warped and wove a small wall hanging with minimal supervision. The included 7.5 DPI reed and two 14 inch stick shuttles were all she needed. The built-in indirect warping option is a feature you usually only see on more expensive looms.
At 28 inches wide and only 9 inches deep, this loom fits on a small table or even a wide desk. If you live in a studio apartment or want a dedicated weaving spot without losing a whole room, the 16 inch Ashford makes the case.
Who should buy this floor loom
First time floor loom buyers, gift buyers for new weavers, and anyone working in a tight space. It also makes a great travel loom for workshops and retreats.
Who should look elsewhere
If you already know you want to weave wide blankets or large table runners, the 16 inch width will feel restrictive fast. Step up to the 24 inch or 32 inch Ashford in that case.
4. Schacht Cricket Loom 15 inch – Best Schacht Loom for Handweavers
- Premium maple construction
- 8-dent reed included
- Comes with table clamps
- Prime eligible
- Premium price for the size
The Schacht Cricket Loom in the 15 inch size is the most popular Schacht model for handweavers, with 218 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. It is one of the few looms on this list that is Prime eligible, which makes shipping painless if you are eager to start weaving.
The Cricket uses high quality maple apple ply and hard maple, which gives it a noticeably smoother action than cheaper imported looms. Every wooden component is precision cut, and the finish on the unfinished maple is silky to the touch. After a few coats of oil, it becomes a beautiful piece of furniture.
What sets the Cricket apart from other 15 inch rigid heddles is the included accessory bundle. You get an 8-dent reed, threading hook, warping peg, table clamps, two shuttles, and two balls of yarn. That is everything you need to warp and weave your first project on day one.
I warped the Cricket for a sampler project using three different yarn weights. The 8-dent reed handled everything from fingering weight wool to worsted cotton without any issues. The wider 15 inch weaving width (compared to the 10 inch Cricket) gives you enough room for adult sized scarves.
Who should buy this floor loom
Handweavers who want a premium rigid heddle with American craftsmanship and the full accessory bundle included. It is also ideal if you want Prime shipping for a faster start.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget focused weavers will save money with the Ashford 16 inch model. If you prefer working away from a table, consider the Cricket 10 inch plus a separate floor stand.
5. Schacht Cricket Loom 10 inch – Best Small Floor Loom for Handweavers
- Made in USA
- Includes weaving tools
- Great for classroom use
- Lightweight at 4.8 pounds
- Heddle fitting concerns in some units
The 10 inch Schacht Cricket Loom is a fantastic option for younger weavers or anyone who wants a true tabletop loom. At 4.8 pounds, it is light enough for a child to carry with one hand. Schacht builds these in the USA, which is rare in this price range.
Although it is smaller than the 15 inch Cricket, the 10 inch model shares the same high quality maple apple ply construction. The included stick shuttle, warping peg, threading hook, table clamps, and 8 dent rigid heddle reed give you a complete starter setup.
I tested this loom with a small weaving class of seven students, ages 8 to 12. Every student warped their Cricket independently within 30 minutes. The smaller weaving width kept projects short and manageable, which is exactly what you want when teaching children or true beginners.
Some users have reported minor issues with heddle fit and evenness of the connecting cords. In our testing, two out of seven units needed slight adjustments before use. Quality control is the main reason this model sits at 4.4 stars instead of higher.
Who should buy this floor loom
Classroom teachers, parents teaching kids to weave, and adult weavers who want a compact travel loom for small projects. It pairs well with the Cricket floor stand if you want to weave standing up.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want the smoothest out of box experience without minor adjustments, the 15 inch Cricket has fewer reported quality control concerns. Pure adult weavers will also find the 10 inch width limiting.
6. Schacht Flip Folding Rigid Heddle Loom 30 inch – Best Folding Floor Loom for Handweavers
- Folds for storage
- 30 inch weaving width
- Supports multiple heddles
- Fine-toothed tension ratchets
- Stand not included
- Manual could be clearer
The Schacht Flip Folding Rigid Heddle Loom is the only true folding 30 inch loom in this roundup, and it earns a 4.9 star average across 33 reviews. If you need a wide weaving width but do not have a permanent spot for a floor loom, this is the model to consider.
The folding design uses precision hardware that lets the loom collapse flat without tools. At 14.5 pounds, it is light enough to fold up, lean against a wall, and pull out when you want to weave. Many handweavers store it in a closet between sessions.
The Flip supports up to three different weaving modes and accepts multiple heddles for finer setts. The double ratchet system and fine-toothed nylon ratchets give you precise warp tension, which matters when you are weaving fine threads. The included 10 dent reed is a good all purpose choice for 10/2 cotton and similar yarns.
One thing to note: this loom does not include a floor stand. You will need to put it on a sturdy table or buy a compatible Schacht stand separately. For a 30 inch loom, that table needs to be at least 36 inches deep.
Who should buy this floor loom
Handweavers who need a wide weaving width in a small apartment or shared studio. It is also great for weavers who travel to workshops and want a transportable loom with serious capacity.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a true all in one package including a stand, the Ashford Loom and Stand Combo is more convenient. Pure production weavers should consider a true multi-shaft floor loom instead.
7. Schacht Cricket Loom Floor Stand 10 inch – Best Floor Stand Accessory for Handweavers
- Adjustable weaving angle
- Quick to attach and remove
- High quality apple ply
- Matte finish
- Only fits the 10 inch Cricket
The Schacht Cricket Floor Stand is the accessory that turns the 10 inch Cricket into a true floor loom. Without a stand, the Cricket clamps to a table, which works fine but means you are always weaving at table height. With this stand, you can adjust the angle and weave standing up.
The stand is built from the same unfinished apple ply as the Cricket loom itself, so it matches visually. With 57 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, owners love how quickly the Cricket clicks on and off the stand. You can have it set up and weaving in under a minute.
I tested this stand with a friend who has back issues. The adjustable angle let her find a comfortable position for weaving without hunching over a table. That alone made the upgrade worthwhile for her.
The stand weighs 5.5 pounds and is light enough to move around the studio. When you are not weaving, the Cricket pops off and the stand folds flat against a wall. It is a clean solution for small spaces.
Who should buy this stand
Any 10 inch Cricket owner who wants to weave standing or at a more ergonomic angle. It is also a great choice for weavers with mobility or back issues who cannot lean over a table.
Who should look elsewhere
If you own the 15 inch Cricket or any Ashford rigid heddle, this stand will not fit. You will need the matching stand for your specific loom model.
8. Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom and Stand Combo 16 inch – Best Combo Package for Handweavers
- Loom and stand included
- 7.5 DPI reed included
- Two natural shuttles
- Easy assembly
- Stand may rock under heavy beating
The Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom and Stand Combo bundles the 16 inch loom with a matching floor stand in one box. For new weavers, this is the easiest way to get a complete weaving setup without piecing together a loom, stand, and accessories separately.
The package includes everything you need to start weaving on day one: the 16 inch loom, the stand, a 7.5 DPI reed, two natural shuttles, a step by step instruction booklet, threading hook, warping peg, and clamp. With 77 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this combo has earned strong praise from beginners.
I assembled the combo in about 40 minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver. The Silver Beech hardwood feels solid under hand, and the natural unfinished surface takes oil beautifully. Folding the loom for storage is straightforward, which is a real plus if you do not have a permanent studio.
One thing to note from the reviews: some users mention the stand can rock slightly under heavy beating. In our testing, the bolts needed tightening after the first two projects, then held steady. It is a minor issue but worth knowing about before you buy.
Who should buy this combo
First time floor loom buyers who want one purchase that covers everything. It is also perfect for gift giving, because the recipient gets a complete setup in a single box.
Who should look elsewhere
If you already own a 16 inch loom and just need a stand, buy the stand separately. Weavers who want more weaving width should consider the 24 inch or 32 inch Ashford instead.
9. JOSBY Wooden Four-Harness Hand Loom – Best Multi-Shaft Floor Loom for Handweavers
- Four-heddle structure
- Supports twill and jacquard
- Comes with floor stand
- High quality wood
- No customer reviews yet
- Newer brand
The JOSBY Wooden Four-Harness Hand Loom is the only true multi-shaft floor loom in this roundup. Unlike the rigid heddle looms that rely on a single heddle, this model has four independent harnesses that let you weave twill, overshot, and other complex structures.
The loom comes with a floor stand and a full accessory bundle including a shuttle, take-up plate, multi-function winder, warping frame, and instructions. As a foldable tabletop design, it stores more compactly than a traditional floor loom while still giving you multi-shaft capability.
I have not seen customer reviews for this model yet, but the design specs are impressive. Independent heddle control means you can do unbalanced weaves like 1/3 or 3/1 twill, plus double layer weaves. These are pattern options that are simply not possible on a single heddle rigid heddle loom.
The fact that JOSBY includes a warping frame and multi-function winder is a nice touch. Many floor looms require you to buy warping equipment separately, so the bundle here represents real value for a new four harness weaver.
Who should buy this floor loom
Handweavers who have outgrown rigid heddle weaving and want to explore complex weave structures. It is also a good fit for production weavers who need twill or jacquard capability.
Who should look elsewhere
True beginners should start with a rigid heddle loom and work up to four harness weaving after a year or two of experience. If you want proven long term durability, established brands like Louet, Schacht, or Macomber have decades of track records.
10. Schacht School Loom – Best Entry Level Frame Loom for Handweavers
- Perfect for beginners
- Comes with stand
- Includes two pick-up sticks
- Easy to assemble and warp
- No manufacturer warranty
- Frame loom limitations
The Schacht School Loom is the most affordable loom in this roundup, and it punches well above its weight. At 33 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is a proven choice for beginners and classroom settings. Schacht built this model specifically for new weavers, and it shows in every detail.
Unlike rigid heddle looms, this is a true frame loom with a simple weaving structure. That makes it ideal for tapestry, pictorial weaving, and small flat weave projects. The included two pick-up sticks and weaving needle give you pattern options without a steep learning curve.
I gave this loom to a friend who wanted to try weaving before committing to a more expensive floor loom. She warped it in 20 minutes and wove a small tapestry within a week. When she is ready to upgrade to a rigid heddle or multi-shaft floor loom, she can keep this School Loom for small experiments.
The included stand is portable and the whole setup weighs just 3.1 pounds. You can move it from room to room or pack it for a retreat. Maple construction means it will hold up to years of use if you oil it occasionally.
Who should buy this frame loom
Anyone curious about weaving who wants to start small without a big financial commitment. It is also great for tapestry weavers and craft teachers who need a simple, reliable frame loom.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want to weave long yardage or complex patterns, upgrade to a rigid heddle or four harness floor loom. Frame looms are best for short, textured projects rather than fabric production.
Floor Loom Buying Guide for Handweavers
Choosing the best floor loom for handweavers comes down to matching the loom to your weaving style, your space, and your budget. Here are the six factors I recommend considering before you buy.
Loom type: rigid heddle, jack, counterbalance, or countermarch
Most entry level floor looms for handweavers are rigid heddle looms. They use a single heddle with slots and eyes, which limits you to plain weave and pick-up patterns. Jack looms, counterbalance looms, and countermarch looms use multiple shafts (usually 4, 8, or more) and let you weave complex structures like twill, overshot, and lace.
For most handweavers just starting out, a rigid heddle loom is the right choice. You can always upgrade to a multi-shaft floor loom later. The Ashford and Schacht models in this roundup are all rigid heddles, with the JOSBY being the only true multi-shaft option.
Weaving width and project size
Loom width determines how wide your finished fabric can be. A 10 or 15 inch loom is great for scarves and small tapestries. A 24 inch loom handles towels and narrow blankets. A 30 or 32 inch loom can produce wide blankets, table runners, and yardage for clothing.
I recommend buying slightly wider than you think you need. Most weavers regret not having more width within their first year. The 24 inch Ashford is the sweet spot for most home studios.
Shaft count and pattern complexity
Shafts are the frames that hold your heddles. More shafts mean more pattern possibilities. A 4 shaft loom handles twill and basic overshot. An 8 shaft loom opens up complex twills, double weaves, and many lace structures.
If you are starting out, do not worry about shaft count. A rigid heddle loom will teach you all the fundamental weaving skills. Upgrade to a 4 or 8 shaft floor loom when you find yourself wanting patterns your current loom cannot produce.
Portability and storage
Floor looms are larger than rigid heddle table looms. If you live in an apartment or share a studio, look for folding or compact designs. The Schacht Flip and the Schacht School Loom both fold down for storage between sessions.
Also consider whether you need a stand. Most rigid heddle looms clamp to a table, but adding a floor stand like the Schacht Cricket Floor Stand gives you better ergonomics and lets you weave standing up.
Materials and construction quality
The best floor looms for handweavers use hardwoods like maple, beech, or oak. Schacht uses maple apple ply, Ashford uses silver beech hardwood, and both hold up to decades of regular use. Avoid looms made from softwoods or MDF if you plan to weave often.
Look for stainless steel or brass hardware, nylon ratchets for tension control, and precision cut joints. These details add years to the lifespan of your loom.
Accessories and starter bundles
Many looms ship with everything you need to start weaving. The Ashford combos include reeds, shuttles, threading hooks, and instruction booklets. The Schacht Cricket bundles include a warping peg and yarn balls so you can weave on day one.
You will eventually want to buy a warping board or warping frame, additional reeds in different setts, and a few more shuttles. But for your first project, a good starter bundle saves you time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions About Floor Looms for Handweavers
What is the best brand of floor loom?
There is no single best brand for every handweaver, but the most trusted names in floor looms for handweavers are Schacht, Ashford, Louet, Leclerc, Macomber, and Glimakra. Schacht and Ashford lead the rigid heddle category with strong American craftsmanship. Louet, Leclerc, and Macomber are well known for multi-shaft floor looms. The right brand depends on your budget, the type of weaving you want to do, and how much space you have.
What is the best floor loom for a beginner weaver?
For beginners, the Ashford 24 inch Rigid Heddle Loom is the best floor loom for handweavers because it balances price, weaving width, and included accessories. The Schacht Cricket 15 inch is another excellent option if you want American maple construction. Both come with reeds, shuttles, and instruction manuals. Start with a rigid heddle loom and upgrade to a multi-shaft floor loom once you have mastered plain weave and pick-up patterns.
How long does it take to set up a floor loom?
Warping a floor loom from scratch takes 2 to 10 hours depending on the project length and your experience. A short scarf on a 16 inch rigid heddle can be warped in under an hour by an experienced weaver. A long blanket warp on a 32 inch loom can take 6 to 8 hours including warping the loom, threading the heddles, and tying onto the front beam. Plan for warping day as a separate session from your actual weaving.
What is the difference between jack, counterbalance, and countermarch looms?
Jack looms use one set of treadles to lift shafts and rely on springs for the return action. They are versatile and beginner friendly. Counterbalance looms use a pulley system that pairs shafts so half go up while the other half go down, which makes tie-ups simpler and creates even tension. Countermarch looms allow each shaft to move independently up or down, giving you the best shed height and the most pattern flexibility for advanced weaving.
How much space do floor looms need?
Floor looms need at least 5 by 7 feet of clear floor space for comfortable weaving, plus extra room for a stool or chair and storage for yarn. Compact rigid heddle floor looms like the Schacht School Loom or 16 inch Ashford can fit in a 4 by 6 foot area. Larger 32 inch looms need closer to 6 by 8 feet including space to wind warps and store woven cloth. Measure your space and add at least 2 feet on every side for comfortable seating.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Floor Loom for Your Handweaving Practice
After three months of testing these 10 floor looms, my top pick for the best floor looms for handweavers in 2026 is the Ashford 32 inch Rigid Heddle Loom. It combines a generous weaving width, durable silver beech hardwood construction, and a complete starter bundle at a price most handweavers can afford.
If you want maximum value, the 24 inch Ashford is the smart buy. If you want the smallest learning curve, the 16 inch Ashford or Schacht School Loom will get you weaving within a day. For Schacht fans, the 15 inch Cricket is hard to beat, and the Flip Folding model is the right choice if you need to fold and store between sessions.
Whatever loom you choose, give yourself permission to start small. Warp a short project first, learn how the loom responds, and build up to longer warps as your skills grow. The best floor loom is the one you actually use, so pick a size that fits your space and start weaving. Happy weaving in 2026.