What Tools Do I Need to Start Weaving?
Weaving is one of those crafts that looks complicated, but the truth is - it’s wonderfully accessible. The best part? You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to get started. With just a few basics, you can start creating beautiful, handmade pieces today.
Your hands
It might sound obvious but the most important tool in weaving is.. you! Your hands are your loom, your shuttle, and your measuring tape all in one. Feeling the materials and experimenting with movements is part of the joy of weaving.
Lots of String (Cheap is Perfect!)
So what is the best material for basket making?
While your learning, you’ll go through a lot of material. Practice means repetition, and repetition takes metres and metres of fibre - so it makes sense to start with inexpensive, readily available options.
Garden String / Twine is ideal for beginners
… Cheap
… Easy to find in the garden centre
… Strong and forgiving
… Perfect for learning tension, knots, and basic techniques.
You can also weave baskets with yarn, leftover craft string, or anything you already have at home. Once you are confident, you can treat yourself to the more “fancy” materials - cotton cord, paper string, linen, etc.
3. A Good Tutorial.
Guidance makes everything smoother. A simple step-by-step tutorial helps you understand each movement and avoid common frustrations. You don’t need a loom or special tools - just clear instructions and a bit of patience.
More In-depth Learning options
If you’d like structured guidance my weaving workshops in West Cork are designed exactly for beginners. They’re relaxed, hands-on and you leave with your first finished piece (and a sense of “Oh! I can actually do this!”)
Prefer to explore at home? My DIY Weaving Kits include all the materials you need - carefully chosen fibres, instructions, and a simple project that helps you learn core techniques without overwhelm.
Bonus Tools (optional but handy)
Scissors (any household pair will do)
Peg or Clip (to hold your work in place)
Cardboard loom if you want to explore traditional tapestry weaving
A nice cup of tea (of course)
But again - none of these are essential to start.
Conclusion
Weaving is wonderfully accessible; Your hands, some cheap string and a good tutorial are all you need to start. Start simple, let yourself explore, and enjoy the rhythm of making something slowly. And when you’re ready to take your skills a little further - whether through a DIY Kit or Beginner workshop - I’ve got everything you need to help you grow.
