Who Made Loom Bands? The Inventor, Origins, and Global Craze Behind the Colorful Craze

Loom bands—colorful, stretchy rubber bands woven into intricate patterns using small plastic boards—once took the world by storm. From schoolyards to living rooms, children and adults alike spent countless hours crafting keychains, bracelets, and accessories from these tiny loops. But who made loom bands, and how did such a simple toy become a global phenomenon? The answer lies in the story of an unassuming Malaysian-born American engineer with a passion for encouraging hands-on creativity in children.

The Inventor: Meet Cheong Choon Ng

Cheong Choon Ng, a native of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is the brilliant mind behind loom bands. While he may not have set out to revolutionize children’s toys, his invention brought joy to millions and ignited a fad that dominated the early 2010s.

From Automotive Engineer to Toy Innovator

Nearly every great innovation begins with a moment of inspiration—sometimes born not in a lab, but at home. Ng, working as an automotive safety engineer in Oregon, USA, initially created the loom band kit as a bonding activity for his two sons. In 2010, he observed them playing with colorful rubber bands and noticed their interest in creating bracelets by hand. However, the process was difficult and prone to breaking.

Using basic tools, Ng crafted a prototype plastic pegboard with rows of small pegs and combined it with miniature plastic hooks and colorful rubber bands. This setup allowed users to weave intricate designs safely and efficiently. His children loved it.

The Birth of Rainbow Loom

Built with simplicity and creativity in mind, Ng named his invention Rainbow Loom. The initial design featured a small rectangular board with strategically placed pegs, a hook tool, a clipping mechanism, and a variety of rubber bands in vibrant colors and patterns.

Ng applied for a patent for the Rainbow Loom in late 2010 and launched the product in 2011, operating out of his home garage. He hand-packed kits and shipped them to customers through online platforms like eBay and Amazon. What began as a family project soon grew into a full-blown cultural phenomenon.

Why Was Rainbow Loom So Revolutionary?

To understand Ng’s impact, we must look at what made Rainbow Loom special in a market full of craft kits and children’s toys.

Accessibility and Creativity Combined

One of the key elements that set Rainbow Loom apart was its accessibility. Children as young as six could create elaborate designs with minimal adult supervision. The low cost of materials, combined with endless creative potential, made it appealing across age groups and demographics.

The Craft Meets Play Concept

Ng designed Rainbow Loom not just as a toy, but as a creative outlet. Unlike passive entertainment such as video games, loom bands encouraged fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and imaginative expression.

• Dexterity Development: Weaving rubber bands improves finger strength and coordination.
• STEM Skills: The process involves pattern recognition, sequencing, and logical planning—skills valued in science, technology, engineering, and math.
• Artistic Expression: With thousands of possible color combinations and weaving techniques, each creation became a personal art piece.

Social and Educational Benefits

Rainbow Loom fostered collaboration. Children traded designs, taught their friends new patterns, and even organized “loom band clubs” in schools. Teachers discovered that using loom bands in classrooms helped students improve focus and engage in therapeutic, structured activities—especially beneficial for learners with ADHD or anxiety.

The Rise of a Global Phenomenon

By 2013, Rainbow Loom was on every wish list, dominating toy sales and trending on social media platforms. But how did a small garage invention become a $150 million business?

Viral Popularity and Social Media Buzz

The rise of platforms like YouTube and Instagram played a crucial role. Enthusiastic loom band crafters uploaded step-by-step tutorials on how to make popular styles such as the fishtail, starburst, and double chain. These videos gained millions of views.

Popular loom band styles (2013-2014 peak):
- Fishtail
- Ladder
- Starburst
- Infinity
- Dragon Scale
- Candy Cane

Schools, despite sometimes banning loom band use due to distractions, could not suppress the craze. The tactile nature of creating something unique—plus the ability to customize gifts for friends and family—helped it endure.

Market Expansion and Product Evolution

With surging demand, Rainbow Loom expanded rapidly. The company introduced a variety of accessories:

Rainbow Loom also partnered with major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Toys “R” Us, making kits widely available across North America and later, globally.

Award-Winning Success

In 2014, Rainbow Loom won the prestigious Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award in the “Specialty Toy” category. This official recognition from the Toy Association validated Ng’s innovation and propelled the product further into the mainstream spotlight.

Challenges and Controversies

With great success came challenges—legal, ethical, and intellectual.

Legal Battles Over Patents and Imitations

As Rainbow Loom gained popularity, numerous copycat brands emerged. Companies such as Bracelet Wizard and FunLoom released strikingly similar products, often at lower price points. In 2014, Ng and his company filed a lawsuit against several manufacturers, claiming patent infringement and unfair competition.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled in favor of Rainbow Loom in 2015, ordering an import ban on infringing products. While Ng won the legal battle, it highlighted the vulnerability of independent inventors in a fast-moving toy industry.

Intellectual Property Lessons

The Rainbow Loom story underscored the importance of early patent protection. Ng’s foresight in applying for a patent in 2010 proved invaluable. However, the lengthy and expensive legal fight offered a cautionary tale for small entrepreneurs facing multinational knock-off producers.

Impact Beyond the Toy Industry

The influence of Rainbow Loom extends far beyond its product lifespan. Its legacy lives on in educational tools, DIY movements, and craft communities.

STEM and Fine Motor Learning in Classrooms

Many educators began incorporating loom bands into lesson plans. As early as 2014, teachers in Canada and the United States reported using Rainbow Loom kits to teach:

1. Pattern sequencing in math
2. Following multi-step instructions in reading comprehension
3. Teamwork through collaborative design projects

Therapists and occupational specialists also recognized its benefits. The repetitive, tactile nature of weaving rubber bands provided calming sensory stimulation, helping children with autism and anxiety regulate emotions.

Empowering Minority Inventors

As a first-generation Malaysian American, Cheong Choon Ng’s success became a symbol of inclusive innovation. His story inspired other underrepresented inventors to pursue their creative ideas without waiting for corporate backing.

Ng often emphasized that invention comes from passion, not pedigree. In interviews, he stated, “I didn’t have a business background. I didn’t have investors. But I believed in my idea, and I built it piece by piece.”

The Decline and Enduring Legacy

Like all trends, the loom band craze eventually cooled. By 2016, initial enthusiasm waned as newer toys and technology (like fidget spinners and augmented reality games) captured kids’ attention. However, Rainbow Loom never disappeared—it evolved.

Shifting from Fad to Permanent Pastime

While sales dipped from their 2014 peak, Rainbow Loom maintained a loyal user base. Craft influencers continued sharing advanced weaving techniques, and new kits targeted niche audiences such as adult crafters and jewelry makers.

Ng’s company also focused on sustainability, introducing recycled rubber bands and eco-friendly packaging in later years, aligning with modern environmental values.

A Cultural Artifact of the 2010s

Rainbow Loom is now remembered as one of the defining children’s toys of the 2010s—a creative, colorful, and tactile craze that sparked imagination at a time of increasing screen dominance. It serves as a reminder that innovation doesn’t need to be high-tech to be transformative.

Fun Facts About Loom Bands

• 10 million+ Rainbow Loom kits were sold in 2013 alone.
• A single pack can contain over 600 rubber bands in dozens of colors and finishes (e.g., glitter, metallic).
• The most complex loom band designs can use up to 150 bands and take over an hour to complete.
• Rainbow Loom rubber bands come in sizes designed to be safe for children—tested for non-toxicity and durability.
• Ng’s original prototype used pushpins and a scrap piece of plastic—proof that great ideas start simple.

Cheong Choon Ng Today: Beyond Loom Bands

Though Rainbow Loom remains his most famous creation, Ng has continued to innovate. He launched Kre-O Quantum Loop, a magnetic construction set that blends engineering play with creative design, further emphasizing his mission of making learning fun and hands-on.

In 2020, Ng released a memoir titled “Rainbow Loom: How I Invented a Colorful Craft and Sparked a Craze”, aimed at middle-grade readers. The book shares his journey from immigrant engineer to award-winning inventor, highlighting perseverance, creativity, and the value of family.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Ng is passionate about giving back. Through the Rainbow Loom brand, he has supported various causes, including:

• Donating kits to children in hospitals and homeless shelters
• Partnering with educational nonprofits to fund STEM programs in underserved schools
• Providing free instructional resources to teachers and afterschool programs

How Rainbow Loom Changed the Way We See Toys

Before Rainbow Loom, many craft kits were seen as niche. Ng’s invention proved that a well-designed, accessible product could inspire mass engagement. Its success paved the way for other D.I.Y. crafting toys, such as:

• Perler Beads (fused bead art)
• ZOOB (construction sets with flexible joints)
• Minecraft-themed craft kits

The loom band movement validated the idea that children crave creative autonomy. Instead of just consuming entertainment, they wanted to make, share, and personalize their play experiences.

Conclusion: The Man Behind the Bands

Who made loom bands? The simple answer is Cheong Choon Ng, an engineer with a vision for accessible, creative play. But the deeper truth is that loom bands were more than just a toy—they were a movement. They brought families together, empowered young makers, and showed that innovation can come from the most unexpected places.

Ng’s journey—from a garage project in Novi, Michigan, to global acclaim—demonstrates that passion, persistence, and a belief in your idea can overcome even the toughest odds. Today, whether worn as a nostalgic bracelet or used in a classroom therapy session, loom bands continue to spark joy and creativity.

So the next time you see a child weaving a rainbow-colored bracelet, remember: that small act of creation began with one man’s desire to play with his sons—and ended up changing the toy world forever.

Who invented Loom Bands and what inspired the creation?

The inventor of Loom Bands is Cheong Choon Ng, a Malaysian-born mechanical engineer who moved to the United States. Ng developed the Rainbow Loom concept in 2010 while searching for a way to bond with his two daughters. He noticed them struggling to make simple rubber band bracelets using their hands and recognized an opportunity for a simple tool to make the process easier and more fun. Drawing on his engineering background, Ng used tiny rubber bands and built a prototype loom using a wooden board, pushpins, and a hook, assembling it in his home garage.

Ng’s inspiration stemmed from observing his daughters’ frustration and creativity, which led him to refine the tool into what became the Rainbow Loom. His goal wasn’t commercial success at first, but rather to encourage hands-on activities for children and to spend quality time with his family. The handmade prototype proved so effective and enjoyable that Ng began sharing it with friends and neighbors. Word spread quickly, and the idea caught the attention of local educators and parents, eventually prompting Ng to patent the design and launch the product commercially in 2011.

How did Loom Bands go from a garage invention to a global phenomenon?

After perfecting the Rainbow Loom, Cheong Choon Ng began selling kits at local craft fairs and through word-of-mouth in his neighborhood in Novi, Michigan. The hands-on, creative nature of the toy resonated strongly with children, and the visually appealing, colorful bracelets sparked interest in schools and social circles. Teachers reported that students were eager to learn how to make new designs, and the loom fostered a sense of community among kids who taught each other new patterns. This grassroots appeal gave the product early momentum.

The tipping point came with the rise of YouTube tutorials and social media. Crafty teens and children posted instructional videos showing step-by-step patterns for making elaborate bracelets, keychains, and even 3D figures. These videos went viral, reaching millions and introducing the Rainbow Loom to a global audience. By 2013, the Rainbow Loom had become a cultural sensation, selling over 8 million units worldwide. Retailers like Target and Amazon began stocking the kits, and the craze was further fueled by media coverage and celebrity endorsements, propelling Loom Bands into mainstream popularity.

What age group was most involved in the Loom Bands craze?

The primary age group involved in the Loom Bands craze was children between the ages of 6 and 14, with a strong emphasis on elementary and middle school students. Kids were especially drawn to the tactile, creative process of weaving colorful rubber bands into wearable art, which allowed for self-expression and the joy of making personalized gifts for friends and family. The activity also appealed to both boys and girls, although girls slightly dominated the market in terms of participation and bracelet trading.

Interestingly, Loom Bands also attracted older teens and even adults who embraced the craft as a form of stress relief and artistic hobby. Online communities formed where enthusiasts shared complex patterns, hosted design contests, and even created nonprofit initiatives, such as donating rubber band creations to hospitals. The loom’s accessibility and simplicity made it suitable for all skill levels, which further expanded its appeal across age groups and helped sustain its popularity beyond just a passing fad.

Were there any legal challenges surrounding the invention of Loom Bands?

Yes, Cheong Choon Ng and his Rainbow Loom company faced several legal challenges as the product gained popularity. The most significant issues arose from copycat brands that emerged quickly after the Rainbow Loom went viral. Competitors began producing similar loom kits using different names like “Fun Loom” or “Wacky Loom,” leading Ng to initiate multiple patent infringement lawsuits to protect his intellectual property. In 2014, he filed suit against several companies, claiming they had copied the design and core mechanics of his patented tool.

Ng’s legal efforts were partially successful. In 2015, a federal jury ruled in his favor, awarding him over $1 million in damages from one major infringer. These cases highlighted the importance of patent protection for independent inventors and helped set a precedent in the toy industry. However, the legal battles were costly and time-consuming, diverting resources that could have been used for product development. Despite the challenges, Ng’s determination underscored the originality of his invention and reinforced the value of innovation in a competitive market.

How did the Loom Bands craze impact education and child development?

The Loom Bands craze had a surprisingly positive impact on education and child development, as teachers and parents observed improvements in fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and patience among children. Creating intricate patterns with tiny rubber bands required precision, focus, and practice, which helped develop dexterity, especially in younger children. The repetitive yet creative process also served as a calming activity, helping some students improve concentration and manage anxiety in classroom settings.

Beyond physical skills, the Rainbow Loom encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction. Children invented their own designs, followed written or video instructions, and collaborated with peers to share techniques. In some classrooms, teachers integrated loom band projects into lessons on math, geometry, and pattern recognition. Additionally, the collaborative nature of the hobby fostered inclusiveness and reduced social barriers, as kids exchanged bracelets and worked together on group projects, promoting teamwork and emotional bonding.

What role did social media play in the popularity of Loom Bands?

Social media, particularly YouTube, was instrumental in turning Loom Bands from a niche hobby into a global phenomenon. Young users and craft enthusiasts began posting detailed video tutorials showcasing how to create increasingly complex patterns, from basic fishtail bracelets to elaborate dragons and flowers. These videos were easy to follow, visually engaging, and shared widely across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, creating a digital cottage industry centered around rubber band art.

The viral spread of these videos allowed the Rainbow Loom community to grow rapidly and organically. Viewers could learn new techniques in minutes and immediately try them at home, fueling continuous engagement. Online challenge trends, such as bracelet exchanges or “loom band of the day,” kept interest alive. Moreover, creators built substantial followings, with some amassing millions of views, effectively marketing the product without any formal advertising. This digital ecosystem transformed a simple crafting tool into a shared cultural experience across countries and continents.

What is the current status of Loom Bands and the Rainbow Loom brand?

While the peak of the Loom Bands craze has passed, the Rainbow Loom brand remains relevant and continues to sell crafting kits worldwide. Though not as omnipresent in schools and playgrounds as it was during 2013–2015, Rainbow Loom maintains a dedicated user base and regularly releases new pattern books, themed sets, and accessories to keep the product fresh. The company also expanded into other crafting tools and educational kits, leveraging the success of the original loom to diversify its offerings.

Cheong Choon Ng has transitioned from being a garage inventor to a recognized entrepreneur and motivational speaker. He often shares his journey to inspire innovation and perseverance, especially among young people and aspiring inventors. The legacy of Loom Bands endures not only in sales but in its cultural impact—demonstrating how a simple idea, fueled by family, creativity, and digital connectivity, can spark a worldwide movement. Though trends come and go, the Rainbow Loom stands as a testament to the power of hands-on creativity in the digital age.