If you’ve ever wanted to try weaving but felt unsure where to begin, the Ashford loom might be your perfect match. Simple, portable, and beginner-friendly, these looms open a world of creativity for kids, adults, and anyone who loves working with yarn. Let’s explore how you can start weaving fun and useful items right from your living room!
What Is Ashford Loom Weaving?
Ashford loom weaving is the art of using a weaving loom made by Ashford, a well-known company from New Zealand that creates high-quality looms for all levels of weavers. Weaving itself is an ancient technique where threads are woven together to make fabric, designs, or textile pieces. With Ashford looms, this process becomes much more accessible, especially for home crafters and beginners.
When we talk about “Ashford loom weaving,” we’re usually referring to the use of looms like the rigid heddle loom, knitters loom, or table loom—all of which help you weave yarns into colorful patterns, scarves, wall hangings, coasters, and more. These looms are easy to use, sturdy, and built to help even a child learn the basics of weaving at home.
The best part? You don’t need a big studio or fancy tools to start. An Ashford loom and some yarn are all you need to begin your weaving journey!
Why Choose an Ashford Loom?
So, why is the Ashford loom such a popular choice for beginners and experienced weavers alike?
First, Ashford looms are known for their excellent craftsmanship. Made from smooth, polished wood, they are designed to last for years. They’re also easy to set up, so you won’t need to read a thick manual or watch hours of videos before you start weaving. Just unpack, thread your yarn, and begin.
Another reason people love Ashford looms is because they are lightweight and portable. You can take them on vacation, bring them to a crafting group, or store them easily in your closet when you’re done. Many people also choose Ashford because the company provides helpful guides, accessories, and weaving kits to make the process smooth from start to finish.
Ashford looms are also versatile. You can make simple things like coasters and bookmarks, or dive into larger projects like shawls and table runners. Whether you’re a curious kid or a crafty grandma, Ashford has a loom that fits your style.
Types of Ashford Looms You Can Try
Ashford makes several kinds of looms to suit different needs and projects. Let’s look at the most popular ones:
Rigid Heddle Loom – Great for Beginners
The Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom is the top choice for beginners. It’s easy to use, and you can make a lot of different things with it. You don’t need to know any fancy weaving tricks to get started—just thread your yarn, move the heddle up and down, and pass your shuttle back and forth. It’s great for kids or adults who are just learning to weave.
With this loom, you can create scarves, placemats, belts, and even small rugs. Plus, it comes in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your table or workspace. If you’re just starting out, the rigid heddle loom is a safe and fun option.
Table Loom – For Bigger Projects
If you’re ready to move beyond beginner projects, the Ashford Table Loom is the next step. This loom lets you weave more complex patterns with multiple shafts (up to 8!), which means you can create beautiful fabrics with fancy designs.
It’s a bit larger than the rigid heddle, and it does take a little more learning, but once you get the hang of it, the sky’s the limit. Many people use table looms to make towels, fabric for clothes, or home décor like table runners and curtains.
Knitters Loom – Easy to Fold and Carry
For those who want something even more portable, the Ashford Knitters Loom is perfect. It’s like the rigid heddle loom but designed to fold up and fit into a bag. That means you can weave while traveling, visiting friends, or sitting in the backyard on a sunny day.
This loom is great for knitters who want to use leftover yarn, but it’s also amazing for anyone who wants a flexible weaving tool. If you live in a small space or just want something easy to store, the Knitters Loom is a fantastic pick.
What You Need to Start Weaving
You don’t need a giant craft room to start weaving with an Ashford loom. In fact, here’s a quick list of the basic tools you’ll need:
- An Ashford loom (Rigid Heddle, Knitters, or Table)
- Yarn – You can use cotton, wool, acrylic, or even recycled yarns
- A shuttle – This is the stick that carries your yarn back and forth
- A warp thread – This is the yarn that goes up and down on the loom
- A weft thread – This is the yarn you weave across
- Reed and heddle – These come with most Ashford looms
- Scissors, a tapestry needle, and measuring tape
Ashford also sells weaving kits that include all the items you need for your first project. These kits are especially good for kids and beginners.
How to Use an Ashford Loom Step-by-Step
Using an Ashford loom is easier than you think. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Warp the loom – This means you thread your base yarn (warp) vertically across the loom using a warping peg.
- Thread the heddle – Pass each thread through a slot or hole in the heddle, which helps separate your threads for easy weaving.
- Wind the shuttle – Wrap your weft yarn (the one you weave with) onto the shuttle.
- Start weaving – Push the heddle up or down to create a gap (shed), then pass the shuttle through.
- Beat the weft – Use the heddle to push the yarn into place after each pass.
- Repeat – Keep going until your project is finished!
- Cut and tie off – Carefully cut your weaving off the loom and tie the ends to secure your project.
Easy Weaving Projects for Kids and Beginners
You don’t have to make complicated things when you’re learning to weave. Here are some easy and fun projects you can try—even if you’ve never woven anything before.
Colorful Bookmarks
Use bright yarn and make a long, thin weave for bookmarks. You can add tassels or beads to make them extra cute. These are perfect gifts for friends and family.
Cozy Coasters
Everyone needs coasters! You can use cotton or thick wool to weave sturdy coasters for your drinks. Try using stripes or checkered patterns to make each one unique.
Tiny Wall Art
Weave a small square and hang it on a stick or mini dowel to make adorable wall art. Add fringe or pom-poms for a creative touch. Kids love designing these with their favorite colors.
Tips for Happy Weaving Time
Weaving is meant to be fun, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect at first. Here are some tips to keep your weaving time joyful:
- Start small – Don’t try a huge project right away. Begin with a bookmark or coaster.
- Keep your tension even – This helps your project stay neat and not wavy.
- Use yarn you like – The colors and texture of your yarn can make weaving more exciting.
- Take breaks – Your hands and eyes need rest. Weaving is relaxing, not a race!
- Watch videos or join groups – There are many friendly weaving communities online to help you learn more.
The Bottom Line
Ashford loom weaving is a wonderful way to bring creativity into your life, right from the comfort of home. Whether you’re 10 or 70, there’s an Ashford loom that fits your needs. These looms are easy to use, beautifully made, and fun for everyone. With just a bit of yarn and a simple loom, you can make amazing things—and have a relaxing, enjoyable time doing it.