Ashford began designing and manufacturing spinning wheels in 1940 in New Zealand.  They added weaving looms in the 1970s and now distribute to over 40 countries.  They have topped 900,000 wheels and looms produced! Most Ashford looms are shipped unassembled. This means a lower price than an assembled loom and you gain a better understanding of the loom operation as you put it together. Ashford looms are made in New Zealand of native beech wood.