Woolen yarn has been spun in the water powered, brick mill town of Harrisville since 1794. This small village is nestled in the Monadnock Highlands of southwestern New Hampshire and is the only industrial community of the early 19th Century that still survives in America in its original form.

The village of Harrisville was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. It is recognized as the only 18th century textile village in America that survives in its original form. Harrisville Designs was started in 1971 to keep the textile tradition alive and to create jobs in Harrisville for the economic vitality of the town. Harrisville Designs continues to make high quality, natural 100% wool yarns for knitting and weaving along with beautiful carded fleece for felting and spinning. Floor Looms in several sizes and styles are finely hand-crafted in the woodworking shop which also creates their wonderful line of awarding-winning products for children. The Friendly Loom ™ Product line includes weaving, knitting, felting, and metal looms and cotton loops for weaving potholders.