I have a hard time making gold too. I can break even (seemingly) with like 40k worth of stuff on a 1h/shield build. If I'm under that I make money for sure. If I try to use anything too fancy (plate mittens, or bring an xbow too many rounds) then I get hit too hard and have to stop for a while.
What helps is the marketplace. Sure, you can sell loompoints and get a big influx, and then buy a cheaper loom with the money, but that's not what I mean. I consistently trade on the market while I'm levelling, and it really helps my income. Out of every few trades I may make 10k or 20k (or more!) and it really helps. Or you can sell your loom, buy a cheaper one, and try to sell it for more money. Do that a few times and it really helps supplement your income!
Yes, you may get burned a few times (buying an item too high, or having to sell it too low) but then you learn what the items are worth. It's really fun!
Example: I am gen 4, but I have 5 gens worth of looms.
This is all from trading, selling, and re-trading my way up! Plus I've got a nice buffer for upkeep.
Try the market dood...it's like a game within a game. Also, the more people that participate, the funner it is!
edit: ALSO i've tried like every good 1h weapon in loomed form. Trading around lets you try all kinds of shit. Fun as hell.