Why a Rigid Heddle Loom Is the Perfect Place to Start
Starting a new project on my rigid heddle loom - warping up
If you’ve been feeling the pull to try something creative with your hands—something tactile, rhythmic, and deeply satisfying why not give weaving a go?
Rigid-heddle looms are one of the easiest and most accessible ways to get started with weaving. They're compact, affordable, and surprisingly versatile. Even better, you don’t need a giant studio or a whole shelf of tools to begin. If you’re someone who likes to keep a minimal toolkit but still wants maximum creative potential, a rigid-heddle loom might be your perfect match.
And if you're curious but not quite ready to commit, I offer a Learn to Weave course where you can try it all out with no equipment needed.
Rigid-heddle looms are small but mighty. Unlike the big floor looms you may have seen in textiles studios, rigid-heddle looms are portable, beginner-friendly, and don’t require any electricity, apps, or complicated setups. You can clamp one to a table or use a stand, and weave just about anywhere—kitchen table, outdoors or I’m guilty of weaving in bed.
They’re ideal for making tea towels, scarves, wallhangings, simple garment fabric, bath mats and more. All you need is yarn, a shuttle, and a bit of time.
Try Before You Buy
If this is all sounding exciting but a little overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many people feel unsure about where to start or whether weaving is something they’ll actually enjoy.
That’s why I created the Learn to Weave course—so you can try it out without needing to invest in equipment straight away. You’ll get hands-on experience using a rigid-heddle loom and walk away with your first finished piece of woven cloth and a newfound appreciation for how fabric is made.
Thinking of Getting Your Own Loom?
If you find yourself falling in love with weaving after your first try), you might start looking into getting a loom of your own. Here are a few things to think about before you buy:
What do you want to weave?
Scarves or small items - A loom 25cm to 40cm wide is perfect.
Table linens or larger pieces - Aim for at least 40 to 60cm wide.
Bigger batches or longer projects - Look for a loom that can hold a longer warp.
What kind of weaving interests you?
Plain weave (the over-under pattern and the place to start) and want to explore with combinations of yarn colour or texture, any basic rigid-heddle loom will work beautifully.
If you're curious about more advanced techniques like finer yarns or more intricate patterns, choose a loom that supports two heddles. Not all models do, so it's worth checking before buying.
What accessories might be useful?
Looms can be kept simple, but you might want to add:
A loom stand
Table clamps for stability
A built-in warping board
A variable-dent reed for mixing yarns
A warp extender if you want to weave longer lengths
Each brand offers different accessories, and they’re not always cross-compatible, so do a little research once you know what you’re after.
Local or Online?
If you're lucky enough to have a local yarn or craft store that stocks looms, it's worth popping in. Some shops will let you test one out or offer guidance. They may also carry accessories like extra heddles or shuttles, which is super convenient.But don’t worry if there’s nothing nearby—there are great online shops in Australia that stock rigid-heddle looms
Weaving on a rigid-heddle loom is a rewarding, creative practice that disconnects you from devices and connects you to centuries old craft. Whether you're looking to make something beautiful with your hands, slow down, or simply try something new, weaving is a fantastic place to start.
If you're curious, come try it first! Join my Learn to Weave course and see just how fun and approachable weaving can be. You might surprise yourself—and walk away with a new favourite hobby.
Want to give it a try?
Join us in a Learn to Weave course - https://www.workplayhouse.com.au/learn/p/learntoweave
No experience or equipment needed. Just bring your curiosity.
