The Confident Weaver’s Guide to Pin Loom
Introduction
One of my greatest joys as editor of Easy Weaving with Little Looms is introducing weavers to the wonderfully versatile pin loom. When I started pin-loom weaving over a decade ago, I had so many questions—what yarn size to use, what a bias weave was, how to join pieces—and I spent hours scouring the internet and books for answers. Getting started shouldn’t be that hard.
It’s those memories of being a new weaver, searching endlessly for information, that led to the creation of this resource page. Here you’ll find answers to those questions and more, plus tips and tutorials on weaving different pin-loom styles, joining and finishing pieces, and beyond.
Use the links below to start weaving or jump straight to a topic. Even as an experienced weaver, I still reach for this page for a refresher—I love how easy it makes finding exactly what I need. Wherever you are in your weaving journey, I invite you to let us help you build your skills and your love for weaving.
—Christina
Getting Started and Basics
Why We Want You to Meet Gabi
From the editor: I remember the first time I saw what a hexagon loom could do. While sorting proposals for the 2018 issue, I came across a beautiful, mosaic-like grape table topper—my introduction to the versatile TURTLE loom and its designer, Gabi van Tassell.
Beyond the Original TURTLE Loom, Gabi has developed a range of innovative pin looms in different shapes, sizes, and setts, each one reflecting her passion for the craft. Use the shapes alone or mix and match for spectacular geometric designs—the possibilities are endless. I especially love the extra-fine sett options, which let me weave fingering weight yarn into shawls with gorgeous drape or shimmering silk-blend scarves. And since TURTLE Looms produce almost no waste, I get to use those luxe yarns guilt-free.
I could talk all day about how much fun these looms are, but the real story is Gabi herself. She doesn’t just make looms—she makes lifelong weavers. She’s forgotten more about pin-loom weaving than I’ll ever know, and she generously shares that knowledge to lift up the whole community. Whenever I have a question I can't answer, I turn to Gabi.
So when I think of TURTLE Looms, I think of more than looms and projects—I think of Gabi and everyone she’s encouraged along the way. TURTLE Looms isn’t just a company; it’s a pillar of our community.
—Christina, Editor of Easy Weaving with Little Looms
Yarn and Tools
Finding a Project
Joining Your Pieces
Finishing Ideas
Tips and Troubleshooting
Going Beyond
What to Weave in August: Gabi’s Picks
Watch and Learn
- Get started with the fundamentals and explore creative design ideas with Creative Pin-Loom Designs.
- Go beyond plain weave to explore texture and patterns with the video, Weave Patterns on the Pin Loom.
- Squares are just the beginning. From plaids and stripes to 3-D designs, explore more with Pin Loom Weaving in New Dimensions.
