Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom - 16"

5 Stars, definitely!Honestly, as a first time weaver, this loom by Ashford is probably the best beginner’s loom you could ask for. I had previously bought the Beka 10inch Beginner’s Rigid Heddle Loom from a different vendor, and honestly I would NOT recommend that to anyone. It was incredibly difficult to warp, keep the tension, and just overall use of it was unwieldy and frustrating.The Ashford Rigid-Heddle Loom (I bought the 16 inch) was exactly what I needed. Assembling the loom was very easy, and warping and threading the heddles were *so* much easier than Beka’s Beginner Loom. Having the heddle block on the loom makes using it flow more smoothly and easily than without one (Beka’s Beginner Loom does not come with a heddle block).Supposedly Ashford prizes itself on being affordable (it is….sort of) but for someone on a tighter budget, like myself, it is still definitely better to doll out the extra money given how easy it is to work with. I would highly recommend this to any new beginner weaver based on all of the above. Save yourself the frustration and annoyances by buying something that is well-made, easy to setup, and easy to use. You won’t regret it.As an aside, I did not buy the stand at the same time as I bought the loom itself (currently propping it up against a small side C-table so I can sit in the living room with Hubby and the TV) , but that will definitely be my next purchase. :)

Can’t go wrong with Ashford! Very sturdy and well made. Easy to assemble. Perfect for beginners or experienced weavers.

We have two looms different in size in my studio. The looms are both Ashford.

The rigid heddle loom arrived quickly, all the way from New Zealand. I was amazed by how easy assembly was, thanks to the precise fit of all the components, and the included piece of sandpaper (which I used on just a few corners). The advice to use candle wax was also helpful, although all I had on hand was some beeswax for sewing. I ignored the suggestion to finish the wood, since the loom is smooth and beautiful as is. I was leery at first to see plastic parts, but they are sturdy and nicely made. The loom is easy to use -- so far my absolute beginner, big-fingered husband isn't yet frustrated and has started his second piece. (This disappoints me, because I had hoped he would tire of this new craft quickly and hand the loom down to me.) I have my eye on some additional reeds down the road, and am so glad I didn't waste money by buying a cheap "beginner" product.

I’m not a new weaver but this is the best “out of box” experience I’ve ever had with a loom. It arrived before the expected date, the loom was easy to assemble and it is very well made. My first project is a waffle weave with pick up stick (husband is woodworker). Tension is great with this set up. Love Ashford!

My husband put it together.It’s sturdy, easy to use with instruction book that’s included.

I’m brand new to weaving so I haven’t used it yet. So I can’t say if it’s easy to use but it was easy to put together. I assembled it myself with the help of a YouTube video. The wood is very substantial and seems like quality hard wood. I waxed the wood before I assembled it but I don’t think that’s necessary but since it was suggested, I did it.

This loom arrived nicely packaged and nothing was damaged. I sanded the parts lightly with 220 grit sandpaper and rubbed it down with danish oil just to protect the wood. Assembling the loom was as easy as can be- the instructions we clear and easy to follow. I've put it through it's paces an it works great. The 16" loom is perfect for scarves, throw pillows, kitchen towels etc. This size works well for me since I have limited space for weaving.