The loom that fits on your desk, travels in your bag, and will still be useful when you are a seasoned weaver.
The Ashford SampleIt is my favourite recommendation for anyone who wants to start weaving without committing to a large loom — and for experienced weavers who need a fast, always-to-hand tool for trying out colour combinations, sett experiments, and new structures before warping something bigger.
It is compact, honest, and brilliant! I keep mine within arm’s reach.
The SampleIt earns its name — but it is so much more than a sampling tool. For beginners, it is the gentlest possible introduction to weaving: quick to warp, easy to read, and small enough that starting over never feels like a big deal. For experienced weavers, it is indispensable — the loom you reach for when you want to test a colourway, check a sett, or just weave something small and satisfying on a quiet afternoon.
I use mine to experiment with handspun yarn, play with colour sequences, and work out ideas before committing them to a larger project. It has probably saved me from more than a few costly mistakes.
And then there are the moments it genuinely surprises you. You can see in the photos what this little loom produced when I started exploring deflected double weave using a pick-up stick — a technique that sounds intimidating but is entirely achievable on the SampleIt. The resulting fabric was extraordinary: fluid, structured, with that sumptuous drape you associate with high-end handwoven textiles. The kind of cloth people pick up, feel between their fingers, and cannot quite believe came from such a modest-looking loom. I was thrilled with it. The pick-up stick does all the magic, and this loom handles it beautifully.
If you have ever thought “I’d love to try weaving” — this is your sign. Just add yarn.
If this item is not currently on the shelf, you can still order it through my website. I will order it from Ashford especially for you, let you know the expected timescale and keep you updated while it is on its way.
