Rigid Heddle

The rigid-heddle loom gets its name from the heddle that is lifted and lowered. This heddle allows specific threads to be isolated in either a slot or a hole which work together to create patterning in your cloth. This loom has gained significant popularity and has become the primary loom for many weavers. With the rigid-heddle loom, the loom’s width determines the width of your piece, so be sure to find a loom that suits your desired projects.

Discover the breadth of possibilities with the rigid-heddle articles, projects, and patterns in this category and throughout Little Looms.

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Skill Guide: Next-Level Fringe and Hemstitching

Learn techniques that go beyond twisted fringe and rolled hems so you can finish your handwoven projects in style.

Pick Up Some Tips for Pick-Up Sticks

Intimidated by pick-up sticks? Sara Bixler has you covered with five amazing video tips (plus two bonus tips in the article).

A History of Handwoven Brown “Paper” Bags

Did you know Elisabeth Hill’s inspiration for the Brown Bag Lunch Set in Little Looms Spring 2025 came from an old issue of Handwoven? Learn more about the original project—and the “paper” bags it inspired.

How to Weave Great Towels with a Rigid-Heddle Loom

On the rigid-heddle loom, Susan E. Horton designs gorgeous towels and napkins that have all the drape and absorbency of a floor loom–woven towel but with much less time spent warping.

Consider This: Choosing Lace Yarns

Want to weave pick-up lace on the rigid-heddle loom? Make sure you pick the right yarn for the job.

Clasped Warp and Lace

Did you know that you can use the clasped-warp technique with more than just plain weave?

Iridescence on Simple Looms? Yes, you can!

Love the look of woven iridescence but don't think it's possible on a rigid-heddle loom? Think again!

The Emperor’s Magic Tablecloth

While they aren’t magic, here are two gorgeous medieval-inspired table runners sure to impress.

The Joy of Not Planning

Spontaneity at the loom is just as wonderful as it is elsewhere in life.

Top 5 Things We Learned in 2024

Christina looks back through the Little Looms issues and articles from 2024 and shares just 5 of the incredible tips and techniques we published in 2024.