The process of producing textiles, fabric or cloth using two sets of threads is called weaving. And the weaving loom is the device or machine used for weaving. The term weft refers to the item to be woven.

There are three kinds of weaving: satin weaving, plain weaving and twill weaving. The designs can be a simple abstract, or complicated realistic images depending on the pattern.

Weaving is one of the oldest crafts traced back many centuries ago. Although there are modernized machines being used now, the art is still based on the very basics of weaving of our ancestors.

Although weaving is a big industry producing textiles or fabrics, it can also be taken up as a hobby. There are smaller looms you can buy for personal use only.

It might be confusing at first what kind of loom you will want to get. There are many different kinds of looms available. Here is a basic guide to enlighten you a little.

Firstly, it is important that you identify the main purpose for your loom. Are you going to weave products such as rugs, fabrics or tapestry? Also consider the size of your weaving projects and the space available in your work place. You must also consider the level of your skill. If it’s your first time to buy a loom, you might want to consider buying the rigid type heddle loom because it is smaller and easier to use.

Basically, the width of your loom is the same as the width of your fabric. For the length, you can make it as long as you want with the use of floor looms but for heddle looms you are limited to a certain length.

One of the recommended looms is the four harness table loom. This type is more affordable and easy to move from one place to another. Table looms are manually operated and may produce slow results, but this is best for beginners.

Most experienced weavers are keen on the brands they are buying. There are renowned brands that are trusted for quality. This is important as you do not want to be interrupted with broken strings or looms in the middle of your project.

There are many looms available in the market coming from different manufacturers but in some cases, unfamiliar brands may not be as durable and efficient as the known brands. Read reviews and gather feedbacks to get an idea. And it is also wise to gather popular opinion from the more experienced weavers.

However, it is not bad to get cheaper models but make sure that it doesn’t sacrifice durability, functionality and accuracy. After all, the result of your project is also largely dependent on your loom.

Furthermore, the type of loom you wish to get will also depend on the type of project you want to weave. It can be a fabric, rug or tapestry.

An inkle loom is good for starters but the area of your project is limited. It can probably weave about the size of a table. Also depending on how many harnesses a loom has, the design can be more varied and intricate. A loom can have as many as sixteen harnesses.

A table loom can only be used with your hands (manual operation) while a floor loom is more heavy duty and is used by most professional weavers.

Whatever weaving projects you plan to make, your loom will be your most important tool so be sure to choose the best. This will help you create great masterpieces for your collection or even as a good source of income. Besides, looms are great investments if you are really serious in the art of weaving.