Technique Tuesday: Fabric for Punch Needling

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This Technique Tuesday we will learn how to select the appropriate fabric to work best with our punch needling projects.


I do needle felting with an embellisher machine and by hand. And I love that you can use various substrates and felt with them. It puts the MIX in mix media projects. However, when it comes to hand embroidery, the fabric you construct your project on is quite important.

Consider the following fabric options:

  • Monk Cloth: This is a tightly woven fabric that is made from 100% cotton. It is a good choice for punch needling because it is durable and has a nice texture. The Dorr Mill Monk's cloth is woven specifically for punch needle art. Try to find one that has 12-14 holes in it. It is a self healing fabric.
  • Linen: This is a natural fiber fabric that is known for its strength and durability. Linen is a good choice for punch needling because it is easy to work with and has a nice drape. Boao Linen is a great choice for making heirloom projects. It is a self healing fabric.
  • Weaver's Cloth: This is made specifically for embrodery floss or fine yarns. It ihas an even tight weave, so finished loops don't slip out.
  • Burlap: This is a natural fiber fabric that is made from jute. Burlap is a good choice for punch needling because it is inexpensive and easy to find. Be careful with Burlap because it is not self healing and can be brittle. If you do decide to go with Burlap, try the one from Ak Trading Co. Burlap & Cotton Blend because it has a nice weight, stiffness and texture and the weave is much more consistently structured unlike traditional burlap.  
  • Canvas: This is a tightly woven fabric that is made from cotton or linen. Canvas is a good choice for punch needling because it is durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
When choosing fabric for punch needling, it is important to consider the weight of the fabric. The weight of the fabric will determine how large the loops will be. A heavyweight fabric will create large loops, while a lightweight fabric will create smaller loops.

Here are some additional tips for choosing fabric for punch needling:
  • Use a variety of colors to create a more interesting design.
  • Use a contrasting color for the background to make the design stand out.
  • Test the fabric before you start working to make sure that it is the right weight and color for your project.
  • Be patient and take your time to create a beautiful punch needling project.

Video: Selecting the Right Fabric

This video purchasing guide is from Tamara Joy.
 

Ready to to start your custom fabric art project?
Please leave your comments below. 

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