Rigid Heddle looms
Vermont Weaving Supplies is a dealer for Schacht, Harrisville, Glimakra, and Leclerc Looms. All looms and supplies from any of these companies, whether or not it is listed in the shop, can be ordered.
Choosing Your Rigid Heddle Loom
I highly recommend Schacht rigid heddle looms. They are well made and easy to use. They come with everything you need to get started (clamps, warping peg, threading hook).
Schacht has two models. The Cricket (comes in 10” and 15” weaving width) and the Flip (comes in 15”, 20”, 25”, 30”).
The Cricket has a smaller profile than the Flip and is less expensive. The Flip can fold and is more versatile, giving you the option of weaving with two heddles (to make finer fabrics or do more complex patterning). When the Flip is folded, it is similar in size to the Cricket.
All rigid heddle looms purchased through Vermont Weaving Supplies include access to a group of unlisted educational YouTube videos that will teach you how to set up your loom and weave. I am also available for private zoom sessions.
If you are new to rigid heddle weaving (or even if you aren’t) I highly recommend purchasing the Weaver’s Idea Book, by Jane Patrick. You may also want to consider a floor loom as you’re determining the best loom for you.
The Cricket Loom
The Cricket comes as a kit and needs to be assembled. The loom comes with two balls of yarn and an 8 dent reed.
The Cricket comes in 10” and 15” weaving width. Unless you know that you will only want to weave scarves, I recommend the 15” width.
Advantages
less expensive
takes up less space when weaving
easier to use on your lap
Disadvantages
smaller shed (how the threads open when weaving)
less versatile for finer threads and patterning
15” maximum weaving width
The FliP Loom
The Flip loom is larger, more complex, and has a higher price point than the Cricket. It is well made and truly a joy to use.
I recommend the 20” or the 25”. The 20” offers far more versatility than the 15”. If you want to make larger tea towels or shawls, the 25” is better. I do not recommend the 30”. The width on a rigid heddle loom is difficult to manage.
Minor assembly is required for the Flip. The Flip includes one reed, your choice.
Advantages
Available in larger sizes
Ability to make finer fabrics and more complex patterns with the use of a second heddle.
Folds easily for travel
Larger shed.
Disadvantages
More expensive than Cricket
Larger footprint
Harder to use on lap
Rigid Heddle Loom Accessories
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