Rigid Heddle Loom Weaving

The Ashford rigid heddle loom is the perfect blend of functionality and simplicity. This affordable, portable and versatile loom is quick and easy to use and simple to assemble.


What is a rigid heddle loom?

A rigid heddle loom is a simple and compact type of weaving loom that consists of a frame and a heddle. The heddle is a device with slots and holes that separates and guides the warp threads during the weaving process. Unlike more complex looms, rigid heddle looms do not have multiple harnesses or intricate mechanisms. They are designed for straightforward weaving, making them ideal for beginners or weavers who prefer simplicity. Rigid heddle looms offer versatility in creating a variety of woven patterns and textures, and they are known for their portability and affordability. A rigid heddle weaving loom offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among weavers.
  1. Simplicity and Ease of Use: Rigid heddle looms are known amongst weavers for their straightforward design. This makes them perfect for beginners and experienced weavers alike. They have a simple frame with a heddle containing slots and holes, which allows for the easy movement of warp threads. The uncomplicated setup and weaving process make it a very user-friendly option.
  2. Portability: Rigid heddle looms are typically lightweight and compact, making them highly portable. Weavers can easily transport and set up their loom wherever they desire, whether it's at home, a workshop, or a scenic outdoor location. This portability allows for flexibility and weaving on the go.
  3. Versatility: Despite their simplicity, rigid heddle looms offer a wide range of weaving possibilities. With different yarns, techniques, and heddle options, weavers can create various patterns, textures, and fabric structures. Rigid heddle looms can produce everything from lightweight scarves to sturdy textiles.
  4. Affordability: Rigid heddle looms are generally more affordable compared to other types of weaving looms, such as floor looms. This makes them an attractive option for weavers on a budget or those who are just starting their weaving journey. Despite the lower price point, rigid heddle looms still provide excellent results.
  5. Learning Tool: Due to their simplicity and ease of use, rigid heddle looms serve as excellent educational tools. They help beginners understand the basic principles of weaving, such as warp and weft interlacement and pattern design. As weavers become more skilled, they can explore more advanced techniques and experiment with complex designs.
Among the various rigid heddle loom brands available, the Ashford rigid heddle loom stands out for several reasons. Ashford has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality weaving equipment. Their looms are made from durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliable performance. Ashford offers a wide range of sizes and accessories, providing weavers with flexibility and customization options. Additionally, through their dealers such as The Good Yarn, Ashford provides excellent customer support and resources. This includes instructional materials and online communities such as The Good Yarn Craft Group, which can be valuable for beginners seeking guidance and inspiration. Overall, the Ashford rigid heddle loom is considered a top choice due to its quality craftsmanship, versatility, and the comprehensive support it offers to weavers. Our blog post explains more about Ashford Rigid Heddle Looms and also other styles of weaving looms. You can read it here

Discover our Rigid Heddle Looms

The Ashford Rigid Heddle Weaving Loom is one of the most popular and versatile weaving looms today, especially amongst beginners. However, it also allows the weaver to move on to more complex weaving projects once they become more experienced.

Weaving on the Rigid Heddle Loom

The Ashford rigid heddle loom comes in 4 weaving widths. The 40cm loom, 60cm loom, 80cm loom and largest 120cm loom. It also has 6 different sizes of reeds. Ashford have also created a wonderful variable sized stand. Therefore, you can have the three smaller sizes and interchange them between the same stand (the 120cm stand needs its own larger sized stand) This allows you to create endless weaving projects, from tea towels to shawls, table runners, blankets and so much more.

Ashford Rigid Heddle Weaving Loom Features

  • Natural timber finish
  • Affordable and versatile
  • Quick and easy to warp and weave
  • Portable
  • Built-in second heddle option
  • Built-in indirect warping option (pegs not included)
  • Available in 4 weaving widths
  • Extra reeds available in 6 sizes

Do I need a stand for my rigid heddle loom?

Although a stand for your rigid heddle loom is not 100% necessary, many weavers prefer to use one. Ashford have made it even easier with their variable size loom stand. It will work perfectly for the 40cm weaving loom, 60cm weaving loom and 80cm weaving loom. So, you can swap looms and weaving projects without needing a new stand. We have some great free tutorials to help you get started right here If you're not sure if the rigid heddle loom is the correct one for you, have a read of our article that will explain all of the different looms we have available. You can read it here. We also have more information about the Rigid Heddle Loom here