Tufting Help Page (Q&A)
This page collects various questions and inquiries that RUGMATAG receives.
About tufting
⚫︎What does "tufting" mean?
"Tufting" refers to the technique of weaving thread into a special fabric (tufting cloth) to create pile. This technique is used for a wide range of purposes, including the production of rugs and carpets, wall art, cushions , and accessories.
Tufting Features
- A three-dimensional finish
- Free design possible
- Wide range of applications
The thread is sewn into the fabric and then cut or looped to give the design a three-dimensional look and depth.
You can combine colorful yarns and various shapes to create your own original creations.
In addition to rugs and mats, tufting can be used to create many items such as wall art, interior décor, small items, and accessories.
The origin of the word "tufting"
The name comes from the English word "Tuft," meaning a bunch or bundle of thread. Tufting involves inserting bundles of thread into fabric to create decorations and patterns. This technique has been used since ancient times to make textiles and rugs.
Modern Tufting
- Popularity as a DIY and art form With the widespread availability of home tufting guns, tufting is attracting attention as an easy and enjoyable craft. There are also plenty of starter sets and online videos for beginners, and more and more people are taking up tufting as a new hobby.
- Popularization in Japan In Japan, tufting specialty stores and workshops are increasing, and the number of people enjoying tufting as a hobby or side job is on the rise. RUGMATAG also offers experience workshops and courses for beginners.
👉Learn how to get started with tufting here
Reference articles and videos
- What is tufting?
- How to Draw a Design on Tufting Cloth
- [A must-see for those who want to start tufting!] Introducing the RUGMATAG Tufting Starter Set
summary
Tufting is a craft technique that creates three-dimensional designs by weaving thread into fabric. Its appeal is its high degree of freedom and the fact that it can be used to create a wide range of items, from practical items to works of art. Even beginners can easily get started with a starter set, so please give it a try as a new hobby!
⚫︎What is the appeal of tufting?
Tufting is a fascinating craft that allows you to create practical and highly finished items while bringing out your creativity. It is easy for beginners to get started and allows you to have fun while creating original items, which is what attracts many people.
1. Enjoy original designs
Tufting allows you to freely combine your favorite colors and shapes to create a one-of-a-kind piece. From simple patterns to complex designs, the possibilities are endless, depending on the creator's ideas.
👉 Learn how to draw designs onto tufting cloth here
2. It combines practicality and art
Rugs and mats made by tufting are practical interior items, but also have the beauty of works of art. They can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as wall hangings and accessories.
👉Click here to see works by tufting artists
3. Easy to get started even for beginners
The RUGMATAG Tufting Starter Set comes with the necessary tools and an instruction manual for beginners, so even beginners can get started with confidence. You can proceed smoothly by watching the online video as you go along.
👉View the starter set in detail
4. Great sense of accomplishment upon completion
The work of weaving each thread one by one is painstaking, but the sense of accomplishment when you finish is exceptional. It has the warmth that can only be achieved by hand, and you can create a special item that is unique to you.
5. Relieve stress and refresh your mind
Tufting allows you to concentrate on your work and forget about the stresses of everyday life. The time you spend creating something with your hands is also a great way to detox from the digital world.
6. Fun for all ages
One of the attractions of this sport is that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from beginners to experienced people. By working with family and friends, you can share new hobbies and memories.
Recommended related information
- If you're new to tufting, check out What is tufting?
- Get started today with the Tufting Starter Set !
- Watch the instruction video on our YouTube channel
summary
Tufting is a craft that allows you to enjoy free creativity, practicality, and spiritual refreshment all at the same time. It's easy even for beginners to get started, so please give it a try!
⚫︎Please tell me about the materials and equipment required for tufting.
Please refer to the following blog article and YouTube video.
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/tufting-essentials
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwhclNO6BTQ
⚫︎What are the initial costs for tufting?
To get started with tufting, you'll need a few supplies.
So, we've put together a list of the most popular starter sets from tufting specialist store RUGMATAG, as well as an estimate of the costs associated with other items.
🎯Tufting Starter Complete Set [AK-1 Cut Pile]
- Set purchase special price: ¥75,640
Set contents
- Tufting start manual video
- AK-1 Tufting Gun (color selectable)
- Assembled aluminum frame
- Tufting gun threader (1 piece)
- Carpet trimmer (rug trimmer/color selectable)
- One-touch carpet trimmer guide
- Ball winder
- Rug adhesive (with anti-mite ingredients) 1kg
- Tufting cloth (100 x 100 cm)
- Mesh lining (220 x 200 cm)
- Soft acrylic yarn 200g x 6 cones
- Soft Acrylic Yarn Color Chart
💡Points:
- The set comes with all the necessary tools, so you can start tufting the day it arrives.
- An explanatory video is also included, so even beginners can make rugs with confidence.
- Estimated price: ¥100 - ¥300
- Estimated price:
- Prepare at low prices (use 100 yen shops, etc.)
- Mid to high price range (including projectors and high quality equipment)
- Purchased the AK-1 Tufting Starter Complete Set
- Costs other than the starter set
Click here for the Tufting Starter Complete Set [AK-1 Cut Pile] product page!
🛠 Items you need to prepare yourself in addition to the starter set
Pen (for writing designs on the fabric)
Hand mixer or table mixer (for mixing adhesive)
Hand mixer ¥1,000 to ¥10,000
Tabletop mixer ¥3,000 - ¥50,000
A container for mixing adhesives
Estimated price: ¥100 - ¥300
You can use disposable bowls or buckets instead.
Spatula (for applying adhesive)
Estimated price: ¥100 - ¥500
Finishing scissors
Estimated price: ¥100 - ¥4,000
RUGMATAG also sells rug finishing scissors for ¥2,600 and ¥3,960.
Rug finishing scissors collection page
Projector (if required)
Estimated price: ¥5,000 - ¥20,000
Not necessary if you draw the design freehand
💰 Estimated costs other than the starter set
Total: Approximately ¥2,000
If you buy inexpensive items such as a marker pen, mixer (cheap version), container, spatula, and scissors, you can prepare everything for about 2,000 yen.
Total: Approximately ¥10,000 to ¥50,000
If you plan to purchase a more powerful projector or sharp rug scissors, it is best to plan for a budget of over 10,000 yen.
🔎 Summary
Regular price: ¥84,044 → Special price: ¥75,640
Low price range: from around ¥2,000
Mid to high price range: Around ¥10,000 to ¥50,000 (including projectors, etc.)
In total, the initial cost of starting tufting will be roughly several thousand to several tens of thousands of yen for the starter set (approximately 75,000 yen) plus other necessary items . If you want to keep the price a little lower, you can make your own frame, which will take more time but will reduce the price accordingly! If you don't mind DIY, we also recommend a set without a frame!
🎉Let's try making your own original rug while taking on the exciting challenge of creating something new. You'll definitely get hooked!
⚫︎Can beginners enjoy tufting?
Of course! Tufting is an easy craft to start even for beginners, and the appeal is the fun of making your own original rug. If you have the equipment and materials (tufting gun, cloth, etc.), even beginners can enjoy it right away!
At RUGMATAG, we offer a "Tufting Starter Set" for beginners.
This set not only comes with all the tools and materials you need, but also includes a beginners' instruction manual video that is exclusive to purchasers. This manual provides detailed instructions on how to prepare the tools, how to draw the design, and the steps to complete the rug.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a simple design (such as a solid color or a simple pattern). The sense of accomplishment when you complete the design is exceptional! Please try making your own original rug.
You can purchase the Tufting Starter Set here:
Furthermore, RUGMATAG offers experience programs and learning opportunities to help beginners:
- Workshop to make your own original design rug
- Home Tufting Master Course (Learn the basics in 2 days)
- Explanations on blogs and online videos (YouTube)
We have created the perfect environment for those who want to learn the basics in advance or try it out for themselves!
📚Click here for more details
🎥Learn more with videos
👉 Check out our YouTube channel
Let's enjoy tufting together!
What is the difference between wool and acrylic?
Please refer to the following blog article and YouTube video.
・How to choose the right yarn for tufting
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/how-to-choose-yarn-for-tufting
We also have review blog articles for each yarn, so please refer to them.
・MB210 HIGH QUALITY ACRYLIC YARN (Acrylic yarn for tufting)
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/mb210-high-quality-acrylic-yarn-review
・RUGMATAG WOOL YARN (wool yarn for tufting)
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/rugmatag-wool-yarn-review
・RUGMATAG SOFT ACRYLIC YARN (acrylic yarn for tufting)
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/soft-acrylic-yarn-review
⚫︎What is the difference between tufting cloth and hessian?
⚫︎What is the difference between RADITEX and the backing agent for tufting (containing anti-mite ingredients)?
Please refer to the following blog article and YouTube video.
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/types-of-glue-preparation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZaxDIDVZac
⚫︎Please tell me how to glue the aluminum frame.
Please refer to the following blog article.
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/use-glue-with-the-frame-in-an-upright-position
⚫︎How loud is the tufting gun?
Tufting guns are typically louder than 70-80 decibels (dB), similar to the example below:
1. Examples of sounds between 70 and 80 decibels
- TV volume (medium to high)
- Air conditioner outdoor unit
This is equivalent to the volume of a TV when watching a movie in the living room.
The sound of the air conditioner's outdoor unit running.
The sound of a vacuum cleaner indoors
The sounds of a household vacuum cleaner in use.
These are volumes that are common in everyday life, but may seem a little loud in quiet environments.
Examples of sounds between 85 and 90 decibels
Examples of sounds that are one step louder than 70-80 decibels include:
- Noisy, busy roads (urban roadsides)
- Mixer running at full speed (noise when rotating at high speed)
- The sound of small power tools (such as drills) at construction sites
- Loud conversations or laughter (loud noises at close range)
There is also a video comparing the sounds of a tufting gun, vacuum cleaner, and hair dryer, so please take a look for reference.
2. Precautions when using in an apartment building or one-room apartment
- If you are using it in a one-room apartment or apartment building, you can be safe by taking the following precautions!
- Consider work times : Be considerate of your neighbors by avoiding working early in the morning or late at night.
- Use soundproof mats : Vibration noise can be reduced by laying soundproof mats on workbenches and floors.
- Installing soundproofing sheets on walls : In environments where work noise is likely to echo, it is a good idea to take simple soundproofing measures.
3. Alternatives if noise bothers you
- If noise issues make it difficult for you to work in your own space, we recommend joining a workshop. You can enjoy tufting in a dedicated work space without worrying about noise, and in a well-maintained environment.
Click here for RUGMATAG tufting workshop
https://rugmatag.com/collections/workshop
List of useful blog articles and YouTube videos
Blog article [Must-read for beginners/creating an environment] About where to install a tufting frame and how to install it
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/tufting-frame-desk
Blog article [Must-read for beginners/Check before purchasing] How to make handmade rugs!? How to get started with "tufting"
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/start-tufting
Youtube What you need for tufting [RUGMATAG]
Youtube How to use a tufting gun [RUGMATAG]
https://youtu.be/0Jiif2BS988?si=GdeadZTsGl_Zl4hV
summary
The noise made by a tufting gun is about the same volume as a vacuum cleaner or blender (70 to 80 decibels), so with the right environmental measures you can work comfortably at home.
By incorporating soundproofing mats and time-saving ideas, tufting can be enjoyed more easily.
Also, if you are concerned about noise, you can use the workshop to enjoy creating to your heart's content in a well-equipped environment!
Please try your hand at making your own original work!
⚫︎What tools do I need to get started with tufting?
To start tufting, you will need the following tools. RUGMATAG also offers a starter set , so you can enjoy tufting from the day it arrives!
1. Tufting gun
This is a power tool used to beat yarn into fabric, and is an essential item for tufting!
RUGMATAG tufting guns come with a warranty, so you can use them with peace of mind.
👉View Tufting Guns
2. Tufting frame
This is a frame for fixing the cloth (tufting cloth) into which the thread is woven. There is a way to make one yourself, but the prefabricated aluminum frame, which can be adjusted to size, is particularly popular.
3. Tufting cloth
This is a special cloth for threading. It is made for tufting rugs, so you can work smoothly!
4. Yarn
You will need yarn suitable for tufting. At RUGMATAG, we have yarns made specifically for this purpose.
-
Wool yarn (firm texture, perfect for rugs, comes in muted colors)
🧶Click here for wool yarn reviews -
Acrylic yarn (highly cushioned and colorful, suitable for making rugs)
🧶Click here for reviews of acrylic yarn -
Soft acrylic yarn (reasonable price for beginners)
🧶Click here for a review of Soft Acrylic Yarn
👉 Compare and verify types of yarn
5. Adhesive
We offer rug glue to help secure the tufted yarn to the fabric.
You can choose according to your needs, such as products with high anti-slip properties or products containing anti-mite ingredients.
👉 Tufting adhesive types and mesh finishing tips explained on YouTube
6. Lining
This is a cloth for finishing the back side of your work. We carry a variety of cloths, including mesh with anti-slip properties and backing cloths that hide the back side for a neat finish.
7. Carpet trimmer
This is a rug trimmer for finishing. It can be used to make the surface flat or to create artistic expressions such as carving. By using it together with the " One-touch Carpet Trimmer Guide " (sold separately), you can easily finish the surface evenly.
8. Other useful items
- Projector (to transfer the design onto the cloth)
- A vice (to secure the frame to a workbench)
- A mixer (useful for mixing adhesives) and a container for mixing adhesives
- Finishing scissors (for cutting out the work and trimming fine details)
Get started easily with the starter set!
For beginners, we recommend the "Tufting Starter Set" that includes all of these tools. It comes with an instruction video, so you can start tufting the day it arrives!
Related videos
📹How to use the Tufting Starter Set
summary
To start tufting, you need to have the tools and materials you need, but if you use a starter set, even beginners can get started smoothly. Why not give tufting a try?
About WS
⚫︎When participating in a workshop, can accompanying persons observe?
I am very sorry.
Due to studio space limitations, entry is by reservation only.
⚫︎Can 2-3 people work together to create one rug?
Due to studio space limitations, we are currently not offering courses where multiple people work together to create a single rug.
We will make one rug per person.
⚫︎What kind of rugs can you make?
At the Original Rug Workshop you can create your own original design rug up to a size of 60x60cm (or 50x70cm).
An instructor will be on hand to support you, so even first-timers can participate with confidence.
We are introducing some of the rugs that our customers have made in our workshops so far.
Please also see the gallery page .
⚫︎How can I prepare an original design?
For more information about the design, please see the page at the URL below.
https://rugmatag.com/pages/how-to-design
⚫︎Can I take photos or videos?
Photography is permitted throughout the store.
We also have camera stands for smartphones available for taking photos of your production process, etc.
*Please be considerate when taking photos so as not to disturb other customers.
*Please refrain from filming long videos during the explanation section of the Original Rug/Mini Rug Workshop or the Master Course.
⚫︎Is it possible to eat and drink?
Eating and drinking on the terrace is possible.
You are free to take a break.
*Please refrain from eating or drinking anything with a strong smell.
⚫︎Are there any additional charges?
There are no additional charges.
The cost of materials and shipping of the finished rug are all included in the price.
Please rest assured that there will be no additional charges even if the time exceeds the limit.
⚫︎From what age can you participate?
Due to the physical demands of this activity, we recommend that participants be 16 years of age or older.
Please contact us if you are a junior high school student. We are currently not accepting elementary school students or younger.
⚫︎Can you express differences in height?
It is possible to create a three-dimensional effect by using two types of guns with different bristle lengths.
It is possible to create two different height levels as shown in the image below.
When considering a design, please decide in advance which areas you want to make low and which areas you want to make high, and then submit your design.
The three-dimensional effect achieved by carving with clippers cannot be reproduced in a workshop due to the difficulty and time constraints.
Can I learn to run a workshop?
We offer three types of workshops: the Home Tufting Master Course, the Original Rug Workshop, and the Mini Rug Workshop .
Among these, we recommend taking the Original Rug Workshop and the Master Course.
The Home Tufting Master Course will teach you the basics of tufting.
This course will also satisfy those who are currently tufting and want to refresh their knowledge of the basics.
If you run a workshop, having some basic knowledge of tufting will come in handy when customers ask you questions about tufting and ask for advice.
At the Original Rug Workshop, you can experience making a rug of your own original design, measuring approximately 60cm x 60cm or 50cm x 70cm.
This course is also recommended for those who have never tried tufting before and would like to try making one large rug.
About the Tufting Gun
⚫︎What is a tufting gun?
A tufting gun is an electric tool for driving wool into fabric (tufting cloth) at high speed. It is like a hand sewing machine for wool. It can be used to efficiently create rugs, mats, and art pieces, so even beginners can easily achieve professional results.
There are two main types of tufting guns:
- Cut pile tufting gun
- Loop pile tufting gun
→ This technique involves cutting the loops of yarn woven into the fabric to create a soft, fluffy surface. The fibers stand up, making the fabric pleasant to the touch.
→ By creating continuous loops without cutting the yarn, the fabric has a smooth finish and is highly durable.
Main uses of tufting guns
- Rug and mat production
- Creation of artworks and wall hangings
- Producing accessories such as cushion covers and mirrors
At RUGMATAG, we stock tufting guns that are easy to use even for beginners. In the unlikely event that you experience any trouble during use, such as not being able to thread the yarn properly, you can use the gun with peace of mind thanks to the after-sales support that only a specialist store can provide.
Examples of RUGMATAG after-sales support:
- Warranty for initial defects and natural failures
- Support for usage and troubleshooting
- Parts replacement and maintenance services (fees apply)
For more information on tufting guns and how to choose one, please see:
👉Learn more
⚫︎I want to adjust the length of the AK-1 hair
We do not recommend changing the pile length from the initial setting.
Adjusting the initial pile length may cause misalignment in other parts, which may result in malfunction of the tufting gun.
If you want to create the effect of different lengths, we recommend using a trimmer for the finishing touches or using a gun with a different initial length.
⚫︎I want to adjust the length of the AK-2 hair
You can adjust the bristles of the AK-2 by about 5mm yourself.
Please refer to the video below (from 0:50) for instructions on how to adjust it.
Turning the screw up will make the bristles longer and turning it down will make them shorter.
*When raising it up, make sure to leave a gap of 1 to 2 mm when securing it.
If you raise it all the way up it won't work properly.
If you would like to adjust the length by more than 5mm, please contact us.
⚫︎Please tell us about the characteristics of each gun.
Please refer to the following blog article and YouTube video.
・How to choose a tufting gun and the types
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/types-of-tufting-guns-and-how-to-choose-them
・AK-1 Cut Pile Tufting Gun (Hand Sewing Machine for Rugs)
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/how-to-use-ak-1-tufting-gun
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Jiif2BS988
・AK-2 Loop Pile Tufting Gun (Hand Sewing Machine for Rugs)
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/artwork-using-ak-2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoTq6yhzLQw
⚫︎Please tell me the difference between 16mm and 10mm.
16mm
Many people who start tufting choose the AK-1 16mm as their first knife.
・The most standard model ・Produces a thick and sturdy rug ・The long pile makes defects such as uneven density and distorted lines less noticeable ・When finishing, you can create uneven surfaces by carving them with a trimmer or similar tool.
10mm
Many people already own the 16mm and purchase the 10mm as their second lens.
- The short pile makes it possible to create clear lines. - It reduces the amount of yarn used. - When used in combination with a gun with long pile, it is easy to create uneven surfaces.
The image below shows the difference between 16mm and 10mm. Please take a look for reference.
⚫︎If yarn gets tangled in the gear
If the yarn gets tangled in the gear, be sure to turn off the power and then turn the gear clockwise while removing the yarn with tweezers or something similar.
Repeat the process of unwinding the thread and turning the gear, and do so little by little without forcing the gear to turn.
Reasons why yarn can get tangled in the gear include the yarn hanging down to the right, as shown in the photo below, or hanging down too long.
The guide hole for threading the tufting gun is located on the left side. Therefore, be sure to place the guide hole on the frame and thread stand on the left side as well to ensure smooth thread passage.
⚫︎About repairs
For details about repairs and warranties, please see the following URL: https://rugmatag.com/blogs/news/tufting-gun-warranty-repair
⚫︎Please tell me how to maintain the gun.
Please refer to the following blog article and YouTube video.
https://rugmatag.com/blogs/tufting/how-to-maintain-tufting-gun
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zxeeXANoR4&t
others
⚫︎Is there a parking lot?
We do not have an affiliated parking lot, but there are several paid parking lots nearby.
Since it is often crowded, some customers choose to use nearby commercial facilities (Royal Home Center, Q's Mall, etc.).
⚫︎Can you issue a receipt?
You will need to issue your own receipt.
You can issue it on the purchase completion screen or on your RUGMATAG My Page. You can also change the addressee yourself.
Our store only issues digital receipts, so if you need a paper receipt, we ask that you print one out yourself.
