In Tufting World, we want you to simplify as much as possible the initial process to start tufting your own rug, and in this article you will find a few tips and recommendations that we want to give you so that you are prepared when planning this new project. It’s very important to have a perfect workspace with all the safety needed so you don’t have any problem while tufting.
1. Be clear about what do you want to do
To begin with, you must know what projects you are going to carry out. It is not the same to make pokemon rugs than design rugs for living rooms, these being much larger and requiring different materials and more space.
2. Be aware how much space you have
The space in which you are going to work usually determines the size of your creations, it is important to plan the location of the frame in a place where it is comfortable to work and you do not have to stretch or use stools, or be bent down to avoid back pain. We recommend two types of frame, one that goes on a table or countertop and fixed with a pair of clamps to the structure or furniture, and another that is independent of the furniture, and incorporates legs with a structural bracket, capable of keeping the fabric vertical.
At the same time, when the tufting process is finished, it is advisable to be able to place the complete frame horizontally and supported on a surface. This will facilitate the incorporation of the adhesive and will facilitate the impregnation of it into the fibers. Also for you to avoid back pain, it is recommend that you have a desk which is on the perfect height, so we have one adjustable for you:
3. Don’t forget the projector
It is necessary to anticipate how the drawing will be marked in the tufting fabric. The easiest and fastest way is the use of a projector, which facilitates the task in complex designs or is simply faithful to the original design. It is necessary to consider that a certain distance and space is needed between the device and the frame, so that the image has the desired size.
4. Confort is first
No one wants to work in an uncomfortable space, right? So you have to prioritize that. The ideal is not having strong air flows, but at the same time to have the option to ventilate or take the frame outdoors in case of using adhesives with strong odor or certain toxicity. Safety is the first thing to take into account before doing any activity without previous experience. Make sure you have sufficient electrical currents nearby, as you will be working with different tools that need them. An extension cord is a must too.
5. Your workspace is also a warehouse
Rugs are not usually finished in a day, so your work space will also be a place to store your frame and all the material you have. For this reason, it is best that it be a place with relatively low humidity to prevent the fabrics and yarn from spoiling over time.
6. Beware of cats and dogs
From experience, I can tell you that we have to be careful with our furry buddies. If you have pets you know their personality and behavior, some may just perch on your rugs, but others love to see the movement of the yarn and will want to play with it no matter what. In this game they can get hurt or ruin the work you are doing, so I recommend that they stay away from your work space, at least when you are using yarn.
In addition to that, they can fill your materials with hairs, fortunately it is easy to get rid of them with a lint roller. We love their company and these are some recommendations but it’s up to you to take them or not.