Are you looking for the best rigid heddle weaving books to inspire your next project or deepen your weaving knowledge? You’re in the right place!
In this post, I’m sharing my favorite books for rigid heddle loom weaving—perfect for beginners through to more advanced weavers. These are the books I return to again and again, and many have helped shape my weaving journey.
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If you’re lucky enough to have a great local library, it’s worth checking to see if they carry any of these titles. Many weaving guilds also have a library you can borrow from. But if you’re like me and your local options are a bit limited, this list can help you choose the perfect book to add to your personal weaving library.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend books I truly love and use myself.
If you can only buy one rigid heddle weaving book, let it be this one. This was my very first weaving book, and I still refer to it constantly. It’s packed with inspiration and guidance—ideal for beginners but with plenty to explore as you gain experience. Spiral-bound for easy reference while weaving, it covers everything from the basics to more advanced textures and techniques. A must-have!
This is a beautiful, beginner-friendly book filled with practical advice on setting up your loom and starting your first projects. Liz has a knack for making things simple without talking down to you. The projects are approachable and satisfying for new and seasoned weavers alike.
If you’re dreaming about turning your handwoven cloth into wearable art, this book is for you. With clear instructions and large, simple garment shapes, it’s beginner-friendly but full of creative inspiration. This book sparked my excitement for sewing with handwoven fabric!
This book is a treasure trove of information and ideas—perfect for curious beginners and growing intermediate weavers. While some sections may feel advanced early on, you’ll appreciate its depth as your skills develop. Topics like weaving with two heddles or more and creating transparencies are covered in detail.
This book opened my eyes to the creative possibilities of rigid heddle weaving combined with knitting and crochet. Judith uses mostly plain weave but brings designs to life with color, texture, and clever garment construction. It’s incredibly inspiring and pushes you to think beyond scarves and tea towels.
If wearable weaving is your thing, you’ll love this book. It features over 20 projects made from colorful, handwoven cloth—each one wearable, customizable, and beginner-friendly. I especially appreciate the tips on adjusting garment sizing for your own fit.
This is a brilliant guide for rigid heddle weavers who want to dive into krokbragd, a traditional and richly patterned weave. Debby’s clear explanations make this structure feel approachable, even for first-timers. I wrote a full review of this book here if you want to learn more.
Tip: Debby has since released Krokbragd Patterns—a fantastic follow-up for more design inspiration!
If you’re ready to slow down and make something with big visual impact, this book is a must. Myra’s take on overshot-style designs for the rigid heddle loom is beautiful and original. The projects are breathtaking, and she has since released a companion volume, Crazyshot Companion, to keep the inspiration going.
🤓 Further Resources – To learn more about this overshot style (or “Branoe” for Russian style) I have a playlist on Youtube and also an online class to get you started with the technique.
🎥 Want to See These Books in Action?
I made a video discussing many of these books in more detail. While it doesn’t include the newer additions to my list, it’s still a great resource if you prefer to watch rather than read 👇
📚 Browse My Full Book List
To see all my favorite weaving books in one easy-to-browse place, visit my Amazon shop. You’ll find rigid heddle weaving guides, project books, inspiration for wearable weaving, and more.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just getting started with rigid heddle weaving or looking to expand your skills, these books are truly worth adding to your collection. I hope this list helps you find your next favorite read—and your next great project.
If you’ve read a book you think I should add, let me know in the comments or send me a message. I’m always on the lookout for more weaving inspiration!
If you’re looking for book recommendations for 4 shaft or more weaving, I have you covered!
Betty Davenport’s book “Rigid Heddle Weaving” is the best book for beginners using a Beka. Ms. Davenport literally covers every aspect of beginning weaving on a Beka. All of the books you mentioned are wonderful books for using a rigid heddle loom. There are several more not listed that have helped me in my weaving journey. Thank you, Kelly, for sharing your list.
Betty Davenport’s book “Rigid Heddle Weaving” is the best book for beginners using a Beka. Ms. Davenport literally covers every aspect of beginning weaving on a Beka. All of the books you mentioned are wonderful books for using a rigid heddle loom. There are several more not listed that have helped me in my weaving journey. Thank you, Kelly, for sharing your list.
Thanks for sharing that Sandra, I’m sure there are some Beka weavers who will find that useful.