What to Look for in a Table Loom

Since all the looms presented here are of excellent quality, like most modern looms,  the most important factor is determining your needs and choosing the loom that best fits them. Here a some questions you should answer before buying a loom. 

• Weaving Width: How wide do you want your woven fabric to be? Would a narrower loom still allow you to create wider projects, perhaps by sewing pieces together or using techniques like double weaving?
  
  

• Portability & Weight: Will you need to move your loom often, perhaps for workshops or travel? If so, would a lightweight or foldable loom be more convenient? Or do you plan to keep it stationary, where weight and portability are less of a concern?
  
  

• Flexibility & Expandability: Do you prefer having multiple looms, or are you more of a "one loom forever" type of person? How important is it for your loom to evolve with your skills over time? Would you like the option to add extra shafts or switch between rigid heddle and multi-shaft weaving?
  
  

• Included Accessories: What accessories do you need with the loom (e.g., heddles, reeds, warping board, shuttle, carrying bag)? What would you need to purchase separately, and how does that fit within your budget?
  
  

• Warping & Tensioning System: Do you plan to use a built-in warping board, or do you prefer direct warping that doesn't require additional tools? Does the loom offer the warping system you prefer?

• Price & Availability: What is your budget, and how does the price of the loom compare to the accessories or extras you may need (e.g., shuttles, stands, bags, additional reeds)? How readily available are the looms, especially for future purchases of accessories?

Ergonomics

When choosing a loom, comfort is key, especially if you plan to move it around the house frequently or weave for long periods:

• Weight: If you'll be moving your loom often, whether around the house or for traveling, consider its weight. A heavier loom can be challenging to move, leading to strain on your back or shoulders. If the loom isn't foldable or lacks a carrying bag, the strain can increase, so a lightweight loom might be a better option.

• Width & Shuttles: Bigger isn’t always better. Using a stick shuttle on a larger loom requires larger, more repetitive movements, which can strain your shoulders and upper back over time. A smaller loom may be more comfortable to handle without sacrificing your ability to create wide projects. Alternatively, if you prefer using a boat shuttle, keep in mind that you’ll need a bobbin winder to make the bobbins, which adds to the cost and should be factored into your budget.

• Adjustments: Pay attention to the knobs and tensioning systems. For example, the Kromski Presto’s knobs may not be ergonomically designed, making adjustments uncomfortable. This could lead to hand or wrist strain, especially during longer weaving sessions, as awkward adjustments require more effort and force.

• Height & Support: The height of your loom is crucial for comfort. Weaving is usually more comfortable when the loom is at an ideal height. If you can, place the loom on your knees or rest it on the table to reduce strain. If that’s not possible, a stand is a great solution. The stands for the three loom brands mentioned here are well-designed and flexible enough that you can comfortably weave in almost any chair, even while sitting on your couch.

So, Which is the Right Loom for You?

• Weight & Portability: If you need to transport your loom frequently (as I do for workshops), weight is crucial. Lighter RH looms like the Kromski Harp Forte or Presto are easy to move around, while the Lojan Flex and Louet Erica are great options for multishaft looms, offering easy portability.

• Flexibility: If you want a loom that can evolve with you, the Lojan Flex is a great option since it can switch between RH, 4-shaft, and 8-shaft with additional kits. For those interested in complex weaving, the Louet Jane offers up to 16 shafts which makes it a great choice.

• Transport & Accessories: Some looms come with built-in features like a warping board (Kromski Harp), while others fold flat for easy transport. Check if a carrying bag is available to make transport even more convenient.

• Cost-Effectiveness: The most cost-effective loom, offering versatility and flexibility, is the Lojan Flex. Its adaptability and range of options make it a great choice without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy?

For now, I do not sell these looms online, but you can purchase them by appointment only, as I mainly sell to my students. If you’re in the neighborhood, don’t hesitate to contact me to set up an appointment! This way, we can discuss your needs and find the best loom for you. However, not all models are always available to see in person, so please reach out first to check availability. 

You can also rent a loom from me before making your final choice for a small fee and deposit when you take a course with me. I want my students to find the loom that truly fits their needs and have a personalized experience when choosing one. 

I offer both group courses and private courses—sign up for the newsletter to stay updated! Many of my workshops and courses take place at here, so be sure to check it out.

Otherwise, check out the websites of the sellers to find a list of retailers near you.

I will also be posting soon about what to look for when purchasing a second-hand loom.