You will undoubtedly find just the right one to perch on the end of your dining table! I got mine in the spring of this year, something I have wanted for a long, long time, and finally realized it would be a good way to help me get through a lot of time at home alone. What I wish I could have done was tried several looms-- retailers will often let you do that, or maybe you can find a local weaving guild or group you can ask individuals if you can try their looms or at least ask specific questions. I watched a bunch of videos online, which was helpful but not the the same as hands-on experience.
I bought a Kromski rigid heddle 24". I think that size works pretty well for me as I can weave a variety of items and if I wanted bigger material or something, I can weave two panels and seam it. I think I would be frustrated with a smaller size. The Kromski is nice made and finished, but there are a few things I would have engineered differently. (Example: the handles on the roller bars at front and back stick out too much and my weft yarn sometimes catches on them; the Ashford has lower-profile handles.) On the other hand, the Kromski is pretty to look at, and visual beauty of my tools is important to me. (I'm a visual artist, painter, photographer, etc.) Just feeling the different shuttles I have purchased, I would also guess that a LeClerq would be well made-- they are so much better finished than the Ashford shuttles. (Who would have thought one would judge a loom by the maker's shuttle? But it could be an indicator of attention to detail.) My guess is that, no matter, which one you choose, you will love it and become close friends. Happy times ahead!
