Punch Needle Rug Hooking (Fine Point), Level 1
Course Description
Explore the beauty and process of punch needle rug hooking with the Oxford fine point punch needle (the “Mini” #14), which uses wool yarn in worsted to light Aran weight to create a delightful sunflower motif. For this technique, we stretch a monk’s cloth backing over a frame, then use our punch needle to form the loops. The process is fun and fluid, transforming basic shapes into vivid color and texture. Finished dimensions of the sunflower piece are 11×11 inches, and there are many ways you can use it to brighten your home, which we’ll cover in class. Jump in to start your punch needle adventures! No previous experience necessary.
Kit Details
Fine Point punch needle rug hooking, Level-1 kit includes:
- 17×17 inch Q Snap embroidery frame, ready to assemble
- Oxford “mini” (#14) punch needle
- Bent applique scissors
- Monk’s cloth backing with sunflower design
- Wool yarn from our sheep to complete the project
- Digital access to pre-recorded tutorials and photo essay
Students will also want to provide:
- 12 large safety pins
- Fabric scissors
- Needle and thread (upholstery thread is best or sewing thread doubled, cream color preferred).
- Sewing pins or fabric clips
- Steam iron, ironing board, and damp cloth
- Pillerator (recommend Ruidla Fabric Shaver or similar tool)
What makes this different from traditional rug hooking? Traditional rug hooking (developed in New England and southeastern Canada first in fishing villages) is worked using a hooked tool from the front of the textile. Each loop is pulled upwards. Punch needle techniques came later, working from the back of the textile while leaving loops behind on the opposite (front) side. While many methods came before Amy Oxford, she built upon the tradition to create a comfortable and user-friendly tool that makes the process move swiftly and smoothly, transforming a tedious artform into a real joy. The punches I source are directly from her studio, are high quality, and made in the USA.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of class, students will be able to:
- Stretch a backing onto the frame
- Thread and effectively use a fine point punch needle
- Learn how to make and fill shapes, as well as basic outlining
- Start and stop colors
- Fix common problems
- Steam, cleanup, and hem for finishing
Students are welcome to submit questions and images of their project via email to Laura for help, troubleshooting, and checkins. Stitch on!
