8 reasons why people might enjoy learning to weave in 2026

Emma and Gillian
Dec 31, 2025
4 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

As we move into 2026, many of us are rethinking how we spend our time, what we buy, and how we connect with creativity in a fast-paced digital world. Weaving is one of the oldest textile crafts but is becoming a popular craft activity for those looking to embark on a new hobby. We believe weaving offers something truly special in modern life. Of course, as weavers ourselves we spend many hours weaving, designing weaving kits and teaching others to learn to weave and possibly have a biased view! Here we have outlined some compelling reasons why we think that 2026 is the perfect year to learn to weave.

Woman smiling, using a wooden weaving loom with blue and pink yarn in a bright room, large window view of green garden. Casual, relaxed mood. — TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom weaving

1. Learning to weave provides a meaningful antidote to digital overload in 2026

Many of us feel like we spend lots of time on screens. Weaving is an alternative activity and provides a calm, relaxing, hands-on escape. The rhythmic process of working with yarn and a weaving loom encourages mindfulness, focus, and a slower pace, something many of us are actively seeking as we look for better balance in our lives.

Woman weaving on a small loom with teal yarn in a workshop. She wears a scarf, and colorful textiles are displayed in the background. — Setting up a rigid heddle weaving loom

2. Sustainable creativity matters more than ever in 2026

Sustainability continues to shape how we live and create. Weaving allows you to work with natural fibres, recycled yarns, and ethically sourced materials. Learning to weave in 2026 means gaining a skill that supports thoughtful making rather than fast consumption. This year we wove some sustainable coasters using some fabric scraps that would have otherwise been thrown away. You can read more about this project here: Sustainability and weaving to create coasters from fabric scraps.

A wooden loom with vibrant threads creates a colorful woven pattern. Number 8 is visible on the loom, set against a wooden surface. — TabbyandTweed rigid heddle weaving loom

Ceramic mug of tea on a colorful woven coaster, next to a plate of cookies on a wooden table. Warm, cozy atmosphere. — Handwoven fabric scrap coaster

3. Weaving allows you to create unique, long lasting pieces

Handwoven textiles are timeless. Whether you’re weaving wall hangings, scarves, cushions, or fabric for the home, each piece tells a story. Unlike mass produced items, woven pieces are designed to last and can be treasured for years. You can read about this project to weave a handwoven cushion here: Creating a handwoven British wool cushion.

Wooden loom weaving blue and white yarn, creating a plaid pattern. Yarn balls in background. Warm, creative atmosphere. — A TabbyandTweed rigid heddle weaving loom

Blue plaid cushion on a pink chair with curly white fur in the background. Cozy and contrasting colors create a warm, inviting atmosphere. — Handwoven British wool cushion

4. Weaving allows you to make beautiful, thoughtful gifts

Handwoven items make meaningful, personal gifts. Many of our scarf weaving rigid heddle loom kits have been purchased by new weavers who have then gone on to weave all their family members a scarf for Christmas! You can read about weaving beautiful handwoven gifts on a rigid heddle loom here: Learning to weave scarves and handwoven gifts

Wooden loom with blue, gray, and white yarn, labeled "TabbyandTweed." Weaving tools and instructions on a pale background. Calm ambiance. — A TabbyandTweed rigid heddle weaving loom kit

Plaid woven scarf in blue, black, and gray draped on a white mannequin with wooden top against a dark gray background. — Handwoven blue British wool scarf

5. Weaving is a craft with deep history and modern relevance

Weaving connects us to centuries of tradition while still offering endless room for innovation. Contemporary weavers are blending classic techniques with modern design, colour palettes, and textures. Learning to weave in 2026 means joining a craft that honours the past while evolving for the future. You can read about weaving a piece of wall art here: Weaving a woven wall hanging using a large frame loom.

Vibrant handwoven textile with red, pink, and white yarns. Close-up view showing textured threads and wool on a loom in a cozy setting. — Woven wall hanging being woven

6. Weaving allows you to boost your wellbeing through making

Creative practices are increasingly recognised for their positive impact on mental health. Weaving can reduce stress, improve concentration, and give a real sense of achievement. There is something deeply satisfying about turning simple threads into something beautiful with your own hands.

Yarn balls in pink, cream, green, and purple surround a woven textile with matching colors on a loom, set on a white background.

7. Weaving allows you to build skills that grow with you

Weaving is wonderfully flexible. You can start simply and gradually explore more complex patterns and techniques as your confidence grows. It is a skill that evolves with you, offering constant opportunities to learn, experiment, and refine your personal style. You can read about weaving the log cabin design scarf here: Log cabin scarf weaving on a rigid heddle loom.

Black and white checkered scarf draped on a mannequin with a wooden top, set against a dark gray background. — A handwoven log cabin design scarf

8. Join a growing community of makers learning to weave in 2026

The weaving community is thriving, both online and in person. In 2026, learning to weave means becoming part of a supportive, inspiring network of makers who share knowledge, encouragement, and creativity. It is a wonderful way to connect with like-minded people. Many people choose to learn to weave by attending a weaving workshop. You can find out about our weaving workshops by clicking here: Learn to weave workshops.

People weaving colorful threads on small looms. Some text on the loom, cozy indoor setting, relaxed and focused atmosphere. — A weaving workshop is a great way to learn to weave

As 2026 approaches, weaving offers a chance to slow down, reconnect with craft, and create with intention. Whether you are drawn to sustainability, creativity, or wellbeing, learning to weave is an investment in both skill and self. We are looking forward to 2026 and are excited to be able to continue to support new and experienced weavers on their creative journey.

Weaving Kits are available in our TabbyandTweed website shop for UK, Canada and USA delivery.

Interested in learning to weave? Then our workshop page has all the details found by clicking the link here.

If you are interested in keeping up to date with our weaving work then do sign up to receive our newsletter by clicking the link here.