About Us

Hello! Looms were developed by Marianne Fairbanks in 2016 during her social weaving project, the Weaving Lab. Erica Hess joined the project in 2017, and the two launched the looms commercially in 2019.

OUR MISSION

Hello! Looms were developed to make weaving accessible. We do this by making small laser cut looms that are affordable, portable, and fun. The design is efficient, focusing on refined features such as the wooden needles, comb and integrated display stand. We support exploration and learning by using the loom to explore materials, colors, and patterns. Additionally, we steadfastly believe changing our focus from the fast paced, screen-focused world by engaging in weaving will connect our hands and mind, reconnect us to the pleasure of materials, and promote creativity.

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Marianne Fairbanks

Marianne Fairbanks is a visual artist, designer, curator and Associate Professor of Design Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She received her MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and her BFA from the University of Michigan. Her work spans the fields of art, design, and social practice, seeking to chart new material and conceptual territories, to innovate solution-based design, and to foster fresh modes of cultural production. mariannefairbanks.com

Erica Hess Artist Designer Hello Loom Co-owner

Erica Hess

Erica Hess is an artist and designer living in Appleton, Wisconsin. She received her M.F.A at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. where she focused on printmaking, textiles, and sculpture. In her free time, she is usually working on Hello! Loom marketing, packing Hello! Loom orders, in her studio wondering why we make art, attempting remodeling projects which are better done by professionals, or lounging with her dog. You can view some of her artwork here: ericachess.com

Read, Watch, Listen: Hello Loom in the News