Beginner Weaving Lessons

Create Your Own Frame Loom: No tools necessary!!

Frame Loom DIY | The Weaving Loom

When I started weaving I wanted a simple loom that wouldn’t cost too much. A frame loom was the perfect option. They are portable and easy to warp then begin weaving on. It really is just that simple. There are a few ways to use a frame loom, but I found that the easiest way was to warp the yarn directly on the frame. I was able to do this without any major hardware, using washi tape as a warp guide. This is perfect for those who want to set up a loom quickly and get started weaving. I’m so excited to share this tutorial with all of you!

Frame Loom DIY Supplies | The Weaving Loom

Supplies:

-The first thing you need is a frame that you can open, by removing the glass and backing.  Another option is using Canvas stretcher strips to make an open wooden frame.  If you choose to get the stretcher strips you will need to follow their assembly steps.  The frame I’m using are canvas stretcher strips, given to me already assembled from my mom.

-Scissors

-Ruler

-Pencil

Washi Tape

Warp yarn


Step One: Using your ruler and pencil mark the interior edge of the frame

Frame Loom DIY, Spacing | The Weaving Loom

Step Two: Take your washi tape and cut off a 1 inch piece, then cut in half so that you have two pieces of 1 inch tape that is about ¼” wide. Place one piece of your cut washi tape along the bottom of the frame and along the front, following the marked line.

Frame Loom DIY, Washi Tape | The Weaving Loom

Step Three: Following your first washi tape use a piece of warp thread to determine the gap size you need then place the second piece of washi tape. Continue cutting and placing the washi tape with gaps for your warp thread across the bottom of your frame loom. Repeat the washi tape step across the top.

Frame Loom DIY | The Weaving Loom

Now you can warp your loom.  Instructions for warping your loom can be found here.

Happy Weaving!

Kate

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  • Jina Juiliano
    February 19, 2016 at 2:43 am

    I am not sure how to ask this question, so please forgive my confusion. What is the differences between warping a frame loom like you have pictured and using pegs for a front facing loom. Like in rug making? Thank you in advance! And I am happy to have found your web page!

  • Rohini
    February 29, 2016 at 3:39 am

    Hi Kate,

    I am making a frame for my first weaving project. What would frame size would you recommend? I am a experince yarn crafter making first steps in weaving.

    • Kate
      February 29, 2016 at 11:32 am

      Hi Rohini, It really depends on how large you want to make your weaves. My frame is really large, but the size makes it harder to fit on my lap. I also end up warping just a part of it and weaving smaller weaves on it. I think something like 9×11 or 11×14 would be a nice size so you can make a good sized weave but also have the loom on your lap.

  • Louisa
    May 31, 2016 at 1:17 pm

    Hi Kate,

    I would really like to weave my own garment, probably a jacket or a top. How would you recommend that I approach this? THank yo so much and I love your blog xx

    • Kate
      May 31, 2016 at 2:46 pm

      Thanks Louisa! I have never made a garment, but I know you’ll probably need a lot of woven fabric. You could possibly use a really large frame loom, but my recommendation would be to use a floor, table, or Saori loom. The reason I suggest these is that they roll up the your weave as you go, so you can make larger areas easier. I haven’t woven on any of these looms before so I can’t offer any tips, but hopefully this helps you get a starting point 🙂

  • Charline Watz
    August 28, 2016 at 9:35 am

    I totally am enjoying your blog! Thanks SO much for sharing so much info! I am an experienced weaver, but I do so love DIY projects, and yours are so explained and great to follow!

    • Kate
      August 29, 2016 at 6:44 am

      Thanks! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the blog!

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  • Kate Buerge
    November 28, 2016 at 10:22 pm

    Hi Kate,
    Thanks for all yoir wondeful and generous sharing. I wonder if you have any experience or opinoin about the Melissa and Doug Weaving Loom?
    Thanks for any thoughts you might have.

    • Kate
      November 29, 2016 at 4:38 pm

      That’s funny you should ask, I actually have a Melissa and Doug weaving loom. I’ve made a lot of weaves on it and I think it works fine, but it does have large spacing, so weaves made on it aren’t as tight as on most looms. I shared how I double warped my Melissa and Doug loom to help with the spacing issue here https://www.theweavingloom.com/weaving-techniques-double-warping-your-loom/

      Over all I think it’s a great option for someone just trying out weaving and not wanting to spend a lot of money on a loom.