I am looking at two used looms in the area. It will be my first. One is a four shaft and the other an eight shaft. I am curious about the differences in variety of weave patterns available between the two. I don' t anticipate doing very intricate patterns, although it is hard to say what I will feel drawn towards later. My primary consideration now is that I want to be able to produce a very strong weave. I want to weave some long cloths for carrying babies on my back. I have 18 month old twins and things go much better around here when I can wear one. I am so glad to have found the website. Thank you.