Craft Spotlight: Punch Needling

Looking for something to do this holiday season? Or need a super late Christmas gift idea? Punch Needling might be for you!

Punch needling is a traditional crafting technique that has gained popularity in recent years as a form of fiber art. It involves using a special tool called a punch needle to create loops of yarn or other fibers on a piece of fabric, typically a stretched piece of monk’s cloth or other woven foundation.
It is a fun craft to do and a new use for any yarn you have left in your house!

Here’s a basic overview of how punch needling works:

1. Materials:
   • Punch Needle: This is a tool with a handle and a hollow needle-like structure. The needle has a pointed end and a slotted side.
   • Fabric: Common choices include monk’s cloth, burlap, or other tightly woven fabrics.
   • Yarn or Thread: Various types of yarn or threads can be used, depending on the desired texture and appearance of the finished piece.
   • Hoop: A hoop is used to stretch and secure the fabric, providing a stable surface for punching
2. Process:
   • The fabric is stretched and secured in a hoop.
   • The punch needle is threaded with the chosen yarn or thread.
   • The pointed end of the punch needle is pushed through the fabric, creating a loop on the other side.
   • The needle is then pulled back up through the fabric, leaving the loop secured.
   • The process is repeated, and the loops begin to form a textured pile on the surface of the fabric.

Your finished product can be turned into multiple types of items such as wall hangings, coasters, ornaments, pouches, put on tote bags or incorporated onto pillows!

Starter kits can be purchased, which can provide you with all the starting materials you need such as a punching tool, yarn, a hoop and muslin cloth.
Alternatively, you can find materials at your local crafts store.

Punch needling books can be found in our library and more can be found online using e-book resources! All you need is a library card to access them for free!

Looking for a craft group to join? Our Knitting Circle are a group who are wonderfully talented in different arts and crafts and love to meet, craft and chat. (This is not a class but a social group).
Please note the Christmas Holiday period may affect meet up days

Locations, days & times:

• Coolbellup Library – Wednesdays – 9.30am–midday
• Spearwood Library – Wednesdays – 9.30am–midday
• Success Library – Thursdays – 9.30am–midday

Starter kits for wall decor
(image: lovecrafts)