[Beginner's Must-See/Pre-Purchase Guide] How to Choose a Tufting Gun and the Types
(Updated on August 3, 2024)
Hello, we areTufting studio & shop RUGMATAG, a tufting workshop and equipment/materials specialty store in Osaka .
For those who are thinking about starting tufting, there are many different types of tufting guns available and many websites selling them, so many people may be unsure of what to buy. In this article, we will introduce how to choose a tufting gun and key points to consider when choosing one for those who are thinking about starting tufting.
How to Choose a Tufting Gun
When choosing a tufting gun, there are three things to consider:
① Can you talk to the seller?
Tufting guns are motor-driven machines. Although they are built to be sturdy, they can still break down or experience problems. If they do break down, it is often difficult to fix them yourself. In the unlikely event that something does go wrong, it is very important to be able to contact the seller for assistance .
Generally, when it comes to products sold directly through major online shopping malls, even if you consult with the seller, they are not experts and may not be able to solve the problem or may not even be able to provide any assistance. Also, when it comes to second-hand products sold on auction sites, the seller rarely offers assistance with malfunctions and is almost never an expert. Therefore, if you are purchasing a tufting gun for the first time, we strongly recommend purchasing it from a specialty store where you can receive advice even after purchase.
At Ragma Tag , we have dedicated repair staff, so you can rest assured about after-sales support.
*We do not accept repairs for products purchased other than those from Raguma Tag.
② Appearance preference
First, consider whether you prefer a cut pile or loop pile surface for the final rug. Try looking at rugs that are actually for sale or that you are using to see which look you prefer. If you know which look you prefer, we recommend a dedicated cut pile or loop pile model machine (the AK-1 or AK-2 at our store). If you like both and can't decide, or if you want to try making both, we recommend a 2-in-one model (the AK-DUO at our store).
③How to make and use
Cut pile fabrics often have their surface treated with clippers or scissors (although this is not always necessary), but loop pile fabrics generally do not require surface treatment. Loop pile tufting guns, which do not require surface treatment, may seem easier at first glance, but with a loop pile tufting gun, you will need to cut the yarn yourself with scissors every time you pull the gun out of the fabric. Ease of use (where the effort is needed) can also be a good guide when choosing your first tufting gun.
Types of tufting guns
There are three main types of tufting guns that are commonly sold.
Cut pile model ( AK-1 in our store)
When the yarn is sewn into the fabric, it is cut with the scissors attached to the end. The finished rug has the yarn cut on the surface. In most cases, the surface is smoothed with clippers or similar. (Some people say that it is not smoothed intentionally.)
Loop pile model ( AK-2 in our store)
This model does not come with scissors, and the yarn is sewn into loops without being cut. There is no need to smooth the surface with clippers, but the yarn is not automatically cut during production (when sewn), so you will need to cut the yarn yourself with scissors when removing the needle.
Cut Loop 2-in-One model ( AK-DUO in our store)
By changing the settings, you can achieve both cut pile and loop pile. At first glance, this may seem like a better deal, but it is not an all-purpose machine that can do anything; dedicated machines for each type are superior in terms of pile uniformity and adjustable range of pile length.
summary
The thickness of the yarn will depend on the material, but cut pile is recommended for fine detail and a soft, fluffy feel. Loop pile is recommended for designs with clearly defined boundaries, a firm feel underfoot, and a durable rug.
If you want to try making both, we recommend the 2-in-one AK-DUO.
And most importantly, tufting guns can break down. If you are worried, we recommend purchasing one that comes with a warranty or from a seller that will provide maintenance.
This time, we have summarized "How to Choose a Tufting Gun and the Types Available." If you are just starting out with tufting, we hope this will help you choose your first gun and allow you to enjoy your tufting life with peace of mind.
Thank you for reading to the end. RUGMATAG plans to continue posting various articles about tufting. We plan to regularly announce the latest information on Instagram , Twitter , our official LINE account , and our email newsletter (see below). If you are interested, please follow us on social media, add us as a friend on our official LINE account, and subscribe to our email newsletter.
