I always thought lease sticks were something used by weavers on floor looms. I knew the name, but not what they were used for. The book, Inventive Weaving on a Little Loom, devotes several pages on why and how to use them for a rigid heddle. This is a terrific tool, especially for weavers with hand problems. It holds the cross for you. I had my hands free to hold all the other things.
My made-from-what-was-available lease sticks worked. I will buy the tool or materials to make a proper set. The tip to secure the sticks to the loom makes them work even better.
To assist with viewing of photos, the 2 warp bundles are hanging off front of the loom.