Taking Care Of Your Inkle Loom

Most all inkle loom manufacturers take pride in their product. They make sure you will be happy with your loom in both design and quality. And here at The Loom Merchant we are no exception. Most would say be go beyond others, we will not disagree. Our inkle looms are designed for more functionality than any other and we do not skip on quality. Proper use and care of your inkle loom today will help it last beyond a lifetime, offering a heirloom anyone would be proud to accept.

There are no oil changes or tune-ups involved when dealing with these looms. The care is quite simple, just follow the manufacturers suggestions and use common sense. But there are two things you can do that will enhance the usability of the loom and keep it looking like new. These are not an every day chore to perform nor necessary in many cases. Just a way to give back a little to the loom that has woven it's way into your life.

Lets take a look at the first of the two, cleaning. Keep in mind we are talking about inkle looms that are constructed from wood. Cleaning can be as simple as dusting off the loom with a dry cloth. You can use a simple furniture spray to put on the dust cloth to help collect the dust and yarn fibers. Just a little will go a long way. A very lightly damp dust cloth will do just fine. Remember this is a wood product and moisture is not a friend.

If heavy cleaning becomes necessary we only recommend one product, MURPHY OIL SOAP. We find this product very kind to looms and is cost friendly. Mixing just one tablespoon of soap to one cup of warm water is all that is necessary. Wipe on and wipe off, it's that simple. Do not wash the unfinished pegs or waxed pegs with the solution, that includes the paddle adjuster on the Heritage. This solution is not meant for unfinished, unsealed, or waxed woods.

Here at The Loom Merchant, we do not go beyond the fine sanding of the pegs, paddle adjuster, and the breast peg support. There are many reasons and the most important one is natural patina. Left unsealed these pegs will absorb the natural oils and waxes from the yarns you weave. Add in the oils from your hands and the surface of the pegs will become impregnated producing a beautiful smooth durable surface. It will take on the appearance of a highly polished surface. This natural finish can not be surpassed by any artificial means. So we leave this choice up to you.

This patina may take a while and if you are using some fine fiber yarns, a little snagging might be present. Lightly sand the trouble spot, using 400 grit sand paper, and that might be enough, just make sure you sand with the grain. But if you want that patina without the wait, we recommend using MINWAX Paste Finishing Wax. You can use any wax you prefer, natural or not. Just sand and lightly dust off the pegs and apply the wax according to the directions. Repeat until the pegs are to where you want them, usually two to three applications will do just fine. Yes, you can wax the paddle and breast peg support on the Heritage as well. This polishing of the pegs will assist in your advancing the warp when weaving, making it an easier process. And you may never have to wax the pegs again.

It is best not to polish your loom with furniture spray polish. Build up and cracking can become a problem and trying to remove the buildup might destroy the finish. Remember that the loom is a piece of equipment that is stressed and strained when used. This movement may cause those hard setting polishes to crack.

Simply take a moment and understand the simple needs of your loom. These two things we have just discussed will let you enjoy your weaving experience even better and allow you to pass on this art to someone else.

(As a reminder, never leave tension on the warp threads when not weaving.)

Thank You,

The Loom Merchant

Disclaimer and Cautions

Altho we recommend products, we do not warranty the results, nor are we responsible for any damages that might occur. Always check with the looms manufacturer before you perform any suggested procedures listed here. Always follow the products directions and make sure you read all the precautions. We are not affiliated with the products suggested within this topic.