What Are Inkle Looms Used For?

Inkle looms are specialized weaving tools designed to produce warp-faced woven bands—narrow, strong tapes where the warp threads (lengthwise) dominate the design. Here’s how you can put them to work:

Functional Projects

Belts, Straps, and Ties: Create custom guitar straps, camera straps, bag handles, dog leashes, or shoelaces. Pair your loom with high-quality yarn for the best results.

Trims and Edgings: Add handmade trim to clothing, handwoven textiles, or sewing projects using weaving accessories.

Household Items: Weave hanging tabs for towels, aprons, or curtains for a personalized touch.

Accessories: Craft key fobs, lanyards, and bracelets that are both practical and stylish.

Decorative Creations

Trims and Bookmarks: Make eye-catching decorative edges or bookmarks with vibrant patterns.

Jewelry and Embellishments: Design necklace cords, hatbands, or accents for bags and pouches.

Historical and Reenactment Uses

Perfect for reenactors and costume makers, inkle looms recreate authentic period textiles like garment ties and drawstrings, popular in Europe and colonial America. Bring history to life with your own hands.

With adjustable tension and pegged designs, inkle looms can handle projects from a few inches to several feet long. They’re ideal for both beginners and experts looking to add a special touch to their crafts.

Types of Inkle Looms

Not all inkle looms are the same! Here are the main types you’ll find in our category, each suited to different projects and skill levels:

1. Portable Inkle Looms

Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, and on-the-go crafters.

Features: Lightweight and compact, easy to carry to workshops or craft fairs.

Examples: Ashford Inkle and Inklette Looms, Schacht Inkle Loom.

Uses: Great for short bands like bookmarks, bracelets, and small trims.

2. Standard Tabletop Inkle Looms

Best For: Intermediate weavers and artisans.

Features: Sturdy design, slightly larger for longer projects, with adjustable pegs for tension.

Examples: Schacht Inkle Loom.

Uses: Ideal for belts, straps, and decorative trims with more complex patterns.

3. DIY and Custom Inkle Looms

Best For: DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious crafters.

Features: Built from wood, PVC, or cardboard using online plans or kits. Find weaving accessories to customize your loom.

Uses: Experimentation, teaching, or personalized crafting projects.

Who Uses Inkle Looms?

Inkle looms appeal to a wide range of crafters. Here’s who you’ll find in our community:

Beginners and Hobbyists: Easy to learn, affordable, and fun for first-time weavers.

Experienced Weavers: Use them for specialized bands or to complement larger projects with weaving accessories.

Artisans and Sellers: Create marketable items like custom straps and trims for craft fairs using inkle loom supplies.

Historical Reenactors: Recreate authentic period accessories for costumes and events.

Educators: Teach weaving basics in schools, guilds, or workshops with simple, portable tools.

DIY Lovers: Build and customize their own looms for unique projects.

Why Choose Inkle Looms?

Inkle looms are a favorite for their versatility, affordability, and portability. Here’s why they’re a must-have in your crafting toolkit:

Portability: Take them anywhere—craft fairs, retreats, or your living room!

Affordability: Prices start at $69.00 for basic models like the Ashford Inkle and Inklette Looms.

Creativity: Experiment with patterns, colors, and techniques for endless design possibilities.

Therapeutic Benefits: Weaving is relaxing and rewarding, perfect for stress relief and creative expression.

Popular Inkle Loom Brands and Accessories

Looking for quality? Check out these trusted brands and accessories:

Ashford: Known for the portable Ashford Inkle and Inklette Looms, ideal for beginners.

Schacht: Offers durable Schacht Inkle Looms for all skill levels.

Accessories: Enhance your weaving with tools like the Ashford Belt Shuttle or Schacht Texsolv Heddles, both perfect for inkle loom projects.

For a modern touch, explore innovations like the adjustable tension pegs included with Ashford and Schacht models for easier weaving.

Get Started with Inkle Weaving Today!

Whether you’re crafting a belt, decorating a project, or diving into historical weaving, inkle looms offer endless possibilities. Browse our Inkle Looms category to find the perfect tool for your next project, from portable models for beginners to accessories for pros.

Ready to weave? Check out our related categories like yarn and weaving accessories for everything you need. Have questions or need advice? Leave a comment below—we’re here to help!

Happy crafting!