I've been wanting a Cricket loom for a really, really long time. I finally hit on an idea that goes right along with my "DIY" nature, so I am in the process of building my own. Here's the prototype:
Right now I'm calling this a "FrankenLoom" because of all the miscellaneous parts. I just did a quick prototype to see if I got it right. I wove a bit on it and it worked just great. For cardboard, it was surprisingly really good! All it needs is a brake system which woudln't be too hard to rig up.
On Monday we'll be making it out of 1/2" marine grade plywood. We'll also be making a much larger one to fit my 24" Beka loom heddles. I've modified the design to be longer, higher, wider and give room behind the heddle for pick up sticks (something the original Cricket lacks). I have the ratchets and ratchet dogs for the wood versions.
I'm just so excited to be able to finally have a Cricket-like loom. I'll be cannibalizing my Beka loom for the ratchets and ratchet dogs to use on this smaller loom and the brand new parts on the bigger loom.
If, like me, you can't afford a "real" one, simply download the online manual for the loom. Find the image that has all the parts. With graphics software, crop to one of the side rails. Print it out full size on your printer and you'll have your template. Everything you need to know is in the manual. Search around and you'll be able to order the ratchets and ratchet dogs or you can make your own. I opted to order the parts for an easier build. I'll be posting the progress on Monday as we get it built. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait!!
If you don't have a printer and/or graphics software to get the job done, I can print one for you for a donation. Please contact me for more details.
