A rigid heddle loom is a good way to learn how to weave without spending much money. The equivalent of a 2-harness loom, it will allow you to weave light work, such as placemats, dishtowels, scarves, shawls or fabric for clothing. The skills and techniques you learn using a rigid heddle loom are all transferable to other types of looms, including table and floor looms, so start with a rigid heddle loom as a way to learn weaving. Your investment will be low compared to much larger looms, and you will discover the fun of weaving.
Unless it comes with the yarn already on the loom (pre-warped) you will need a warping board (or at the very least, warping pegs) to prepare the yarn prior to winding it on (see Loom Warping page). A 4.5 yard, 6-yard or 9-yard warping board is adequate for a rigid heddle loom and you will be able to use it if and when you decide to purchase a larger loom.
WHAT YOU NEED TO GET STARTED WITH A RIGID HEDDLE LOOM:
yarn
2 or more stick shuttles
threading hook (unless included with loom)
warping pegs or warping board (4.5 or 6.5 yard) (unless included with loom)
book ("Hands on Rigid Heddle Weaving," "The Ashford Book of Rigid Heddle Weaving," or video "Rigid Heddle Weaving")
Nice to have: stand, extra rigid heddles, fringe twister
