Frame Stability: The 5-Minute Test

Wobble = skipped stitches. Use this fast routine before every session.

1) Level & legs (60 sec)

• Place a small level on the top rail. Shim feet until level.
• Check stand braces; tighten any loose screws.
• See our frame setup guide for detailed instructions.

2) Corners & grippers (90 sec)

• Press on each corner—no flex allowed.
• Gripper strips flush and facing inward (how-to).
• Confirm strips bite evenly on all sides.

3) Tension order (90 sec)

1. Top → bottom → left → right.
2. Pinch test in the center (1–2 cm rebound) (tension test).
3. Re-tension after 10–15 minutes of tufting.

4) Test line (60 sec)

Tuft a 3–5 cm line. If loops fall or tilt, re-tension and retry.

Related: Check your gun troubleshooting if problems persist after stabilizing the frame.