Hi Julia, hopefully someone can join the discussion - I've rarely woven and never tied up a Spring loom. However, when I was looking at replacing my old Leclerc loom with something that was easier on my knees (while I waited for a double knee replacement), Jane suggested the David loom would be easier for me when I did the tie-ups. BTW - I'm also 5'4" and shrinking 😉 I've had my David 14 years now and still love weaving on it. The result of my knee surgery was wonderful except for the fact that I have difficulty staying on my knees for any length of time. However, my David is also light and I can tip him over slowly until his back beam is securely resting on a sturdy chair and being supported while I do my tie-ups.

I've woven with just about every fibre over the years, including JST's 40/2, without my David objecting to the yarn I had dressed him in. He is currently helping my daughter-in-law who is learning to weave and they are getting along fine. I've never had any difficulty treadling my David - even prior to my knee surgery. Both looms will be able to do any of the structures that are being taught in the School of Weaving where almost everything is woven on a Spring or a David loom - including doubleweave.

Maybe someone who actually owns both can give you the pros and cons of both looms so you have more information to help you decide which loom is best for you. You'll find Spring loom weavers who can't imagine weaving on a different loom and the same goes for David loom weavers. The right loom for what you need will be the perfect loom for you. Keep a check list going while you're exploring!