> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learning.loftyfiber.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://learning.loftyfiber.com/floor-and-table-looms-purchasing-information-and-support/ashford-floor-and-table-looms/ashford-table-loom/ashford-table-loom-troubleshooting-tips.md).

# Ashford Table Loom Troubleshooting Tips

### **Beater Doesn’t Sit Evenly or Rubs Against the Frame**

**Problem:** The beater hits one side of the loom or doesn’t sit square in the frame — e.g., it rubs the right side while leaving a gap on the left.\
**Cause:** This usually means the **loom frame is slightly out of square** rather than an issue with the beater itself.

**Fix:**\
✅ Measure diagonally from opposite corners and compare both directions — if they’re not equal, the frame is skewed.\
✅ Loosen the screws a bit and gently shift the frame until the measurements match.\
✅ Once square, tighten screws and re-check. A few small washers/spacers at the pivot points can help if tiny adjustments are needed. 

***

### **Ratchet & Pawl Slipping — Warp Won’t Hold Tension**

**Problem:** The back beam won’t lock in place; the ratchet and pawl slip, and the warp tension can’t stay set.  (Plastic pawl/ratchet is less reliable)\
**Cause:** The pawl could be **installed incorrectly (upside down)**, or the ratchet pin isn’t fully engaging the teeth. Mis-winding the warp around the beam can make this worse.

**Fix:**\
✅ Check that the **pawl is flipped the right way** — many have two ways to mount it, and an upside-down pawl won’t engage properly.\
✅ Make sure the warp is wound in the correct direction onto the beam.\
✅ If the original pawl/ratchet parts are worn or damaged, contact LoftyFiber for a replacement

***

### **Apron Cords Break or Don’t Hold Even Tension**

**Problem:** The apron (warp or cloth) cords can snap near the end of a long project, or tension becomes uneven between cords.\
**Cause:** Ashford’s stock apron cords on some table loom versions are made from lighter tapestry warp string, which can be **too light for heavier or prolonged tension**.

**Fix:**\
✅ Replace the factory apron strings with **Texsolv cord of equal length**, which is stronger and holds more consistent tension. \
✅ When replacing, ensure **all cord lengths are exactly the same** before tying on — mismatched lengths are a common source of uneven tension. 

***

### **Uneven Beater Action**

**Symptom:** The beater packs more firmly on one side than the other. \
**Cause:** Shaft cords or elastic ties don't have equal tension, or the loom isn’t perfectly square.

**Fix:**\
✔︎ Check that the connecting bands or cords on both sides of the beater are matched in length and tension.\
✔︎ Confirm the frame is square as described above — squareness affects how evenly the beater rolls back.

***

### **Quick Tips to Prevent These Issues**

* **Check squareness when you assemble the loom** — table looms can shift out of square during shipping.
* **Replace apron cords and elastics proactively** with Texsolv if you plan long projects.
* **Review the ratchet/pawl orientation** before you begin your first warp — it’s easy to install backwards.