Tufting and Needle Punch Workshop

Today’s workshop was all about tufting and needle punch techniques, and it was such a lovely, hands-on day full of experimentation, conversation, and creativity.

We started by gathering around a table of tufted textile samples. Everyone began by feeling the different surfaces, discussing textures, and noticing how certain stitches created entirely different sensations. We chatted about the various finishes (looped, cut, dense, fluffy) and it was really interesting hearing how people connected the feel of these surfaces to their emotions and preferences.

To bring in what we’ve explored in previous sessions, we compared these new tufted samples with the felted pieces we’ve made before. It sparked some great conversation about how different materials and making processes make us feel. Some described the felted textures as "firm and grounding," while the tufted samples were “inviting”, “comforting”, and even “fun”. There was a clear preference emerging: most people gravitated toward the softer, woolier yarns. That sensory feedback is such an important part of this whole project.

After our texture chat, I gave a quick demonstration on how to set up the cloth, thread the needle punch, and some of the basic techniques for getting started. Nothing too rigid or technical, just enough to get people going. Like all of our sessions, there’s no set outcome or step-by-step instructions. It’s all about trying things out, seeing what happens, and noticing what you enjoy.

The group really embraced the freedom to play. Some people experimented with layering different yarn weights to create raised areas, while others worked with colour changes to explore pattern and contrast. It was lovely to see everyone so engaged and some people said they really lost themselves in the rhythm of the punch needle, describing it as “soothing” and “meditative.”

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. A few people mentioned how satisfying it felt to make something tactile straight away, and how easy it was to fall into a flow with the repetitive movement of the punch needle. Others shared that they liked the openness of the session, and felt no pressure to get it ‘right’ but just encouraged to enjoy the process.

Overall, it was a really successful workshop. Everyone ended up with their own small tufted piece-in-progress, and some people even took their sample home to explore further. It’s so rewarding seeing how each workshop builds on the last, not just in terms of skills, but in the way people reflect, share, and connect with each other and the materials.