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The 5 best looms for adults for weaving at home

Are you ready to unleash your creative side and plunge into the fascinating world of weaving? If so, then you've come to the right place! Today we're taking a look at the best weaving looms for adults available in Germany. Whether you're a weaving beginner or already advanced, everyone will find their perfect companion on the journey to beautiful self-woven creations. Without further ado, let's get straight into the list!

If you are looking for a reliable and high quality loom, we recommend you take a look at our site – the Berlin Loom Manufactory – to throw.

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What criteria should I use to choose my loom?

Choosing the right loom is key to a successful and fulfilling weaving adventure. There are a variety of options out there, and it can be overwhelming to make the best choice. Here are some important criteria to consider:

1. Experience level and complexity: Before choosing a loom, think about what level of experience you are at. Beginners should start with simpler models (e.g. the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom ) that have fewer features, while more advanced looms can look for looms that allow for more complex patterns and techniques (e.g. the Glimåkra Julia ).

2. Projects and size: Consider what type of projects you primarily want to weave. Smaller circular looms are good for pieces like coasters or pendants, while larger table or floor looms are suitable for rugs, blankets, shawls, bags, scarves, towels or larger wall hangings.

3rd place: Consider the space available in your home. Floor looms require more room than table or circular looms. Make sure the loom fits in the room you have chosen and offers enough work space.

4. Material quality: Invest in a loom that is made from high-quality materials. This not only ensures the longevity of the loom, but also ensures comfortable weaving without stressful breakdowns.

5. Weaving width and number of shafts: The weaving width determines how wide your looms can be. Make sure the loom offers the right width for the projects you want to do. The number of shafts affects the complexity of the patterns you can weave. More shafts mean more possibilities, but also a steeper learning curve.

6. Portability: If you plan to take your loom with you from time to time, make sure it is portable . have an advantage over looms in this respect. Especially the Loom Emilia is suitable for globetrotters as it can be transported while covered.

7. Prize: Looms vary greatly in price. While entry-level models start at 500 euros, advanced models can easily cost several thousand euros. Set a budget that fits your financial means and look for options that meet your needs.

8. Additional features: Some looms offer additional functions such as automatic thread clamping or pre-made patterns. The distinction between roller pull and counter march is also important. Think about how you prefer to weave. If you attend a course, find out which technique the instructor uses or recommends.

The 5 best looms for adults for weaving at home

5th place: The mobile Asford Katie table loom
Number 5 is a good companion for workshops and weaving courses. This compact, portable loom with 8 shafts is an all-rounder. With its foldable hanging box and warp beam, winding the warp is child's play. The handwheels are comfortable to use and the robust nylon gears with 30 teeth ensure reliable performance.

The included carrying bag is really practical. With a padded zipped compartment, patch pockets, a carrying handle and a shoulder strap, the loom is well protected when on the move.

All in all, the Katie model from Ashford is a great loom. The weaving width is just 30 cm, which limits the owner's flexibility somewhat. What we also don't like are the plastic buttons.

table loom

4th place: The rare ribbon loom
At number 4 is a ribbon loom . Ribbon looms are primarily used to make ribbons that can be used in clothing making, crafts or art. Traditionally, ribbon looms were operated by hand and passed down from generation to generation, but today they have largely been replaced by modern industrial machinery.

There are hardly any households in German-speaking countries that have a ribbon loom anymore. It is all the more amazing that this type of loom is still manufactured in small numbers today. Fortunately, you don't have to go too far out on a limb in terms of price. Ribbon looms start at just 150 euros and are - despite their rarity - among the most affordable models.

The Glimåkra ribbon loom offers the owner the opportunity to leave the standardized paths of the industry and produce their own creative, unique pieces. A need that more and more people are returning to.

3rd place: The professional Glimåkra Standard Loom
The Glimåkra Standard loom made in Sweden - a precious treasure for discerning weavers. This high-quality loom embodies masterful craftsmanship and first-class materials. Made from the finest wood, it not only offers impressive durability, but also an aesthetic elegance that transforms any craft room, studio or classroom into a paradise for creatives.

The Swedish loom impresses not only with its outstanding quality, but also with its Flexibility. You can have the loom assembled according to your own wishes. The weaving width varies between 100 and 160 cm. You can either choose the traditional model with roller pulley or a model with counter march. The smooth movements and the precise pedaling make weaving almost effortless and enable the production of fabrics of the highest quality.

With the Dimensions of 193 × 160 x 175 cm in its largest form, this loom is not suitable for everyone. We only recommend this model for advanced weavers. If you choose the Glimåkra Standard , you are buying a loom for generations, which ideally will hardly lose any value.

A true gem from Sweden that not only creates fabrics of the highest quality, but also celebrates the connection between tradition and innovation.

2nd place: The Ashford 8-shaft table loom
Second place goes to the Ashford 8-shaft table loom . With a selectable weaving width of either 40, 60 or 80 cm, the table loom is extremely versatile. It is in demand among both beginners and experienced weavers.

The shafts can be easily folded away and the loom has non-slip feet and stainless steel tubes for the heddles. It also offers numerous expansion options. The optional floor stand allows you to weave anywhere you want.

With a price of 700 to 900 euros depending on the size, the Ashford 8-shaft is not exactly cheap. But you get a beautiful loom of the highest quality. Thanks to the generous weaving width of up to 80 cm, you have remarkable flexibility when creating textiles.

1st place: The all-rounder Glimåkra Julia loom
The Glimåkra Julia is our number 1. In our opinion, the compact loom hits the nerve of the times. Many weavers now live in cities and have to find a model that fits in a city apartment. The Julia loom was developed for exactly this purpose. The dimensions are a very efficient 78 cm x 80 cm x 130 cm.

Compact and quiet, this space saver is the perfect loom for apartments. Its lightweight yet sturdy construction makes pedaling almost effortless while still producing high quality weaves. The Julia floor loom offers a weaving width of just under 70cm and can be moved through doorways even when fully assembled.

The Julia model is made in Sweden. The price is typically under 1000 euros, making it a relatively inexpensive loom. Great!

Conclusion

Choosing the right loom takes time, research and careful consideration. Think about what is important to you and what focus you want when weaving. Whichever loom you choose, it will take you on a creative journey where you create stunning pieces by hand while developing your skills and love of the craft.

The Berlin Loom Manufactory offers a variety of high-quality looms that you can consider to start your weaving adventure.

PS: With the voucher code 4N592JSM3TPG you get 5% discount in summer 2024 on all items in our online shop.

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