Rigid Heddle Loom vs Shaft Loom

Lojan Flex Rigid Heddle and the Dutch know how to make a particularly good loom

I love a quick weave. Unplanned, using chunky yarn I already own, weave it, wash it, use it, before doubt kicks in. It doesn’t happen often enough, but when it does, the immediacy lingers.

I’ve used rigid heddle looms for years, and an 8 shaft floor loom for much longer. Many shaft weavers turn their nose up as if it’s a child’s toy. Like a concert grand pianist dismissing an electronic keyboard player. I understand the instinct, but have you tried it?

Now don’t get me wrong, to the non-weaver, weaving always takes a long time. But when you’re used to the meterage and commitment of a floor loom, the pace of a rigid heddle is irresistible.

No warping board. No second pair of hands. No missed threadings and treadles.

As an 8-shaft weaver (also me), I can manipulate structures on a rigid heddle in ways I didn’t know were possible. It’s direct. Nimble. Portable.

I take my rigid heddle loom camping. I weave in bed. I pass it to friends.

It’s not lesser.
It’s immediate.