Skipped Stitches? Fix It in 3 Moves (Tension → Pile → Yarn)
Use this decision tree when loops fall out or skip—90% of issues resolve in 3 steps.
Move 1: Check Fabric Tension
The #1 culprit. Loose backing = loops fall out.
- Re-tension: top → bottom → left → right.
- Pinch test: center should rebound 1–2 cm (tension test).
- If still loose, tighten gripper strips or use corner clamps.
Test: Tuft a 3–5 cm line. If loops sit uniform, move on. If not, re-tension.
Move 2: Drop Pile Height
Over-ambitious pile height loses loops. Dial it down 1–2 mm and retry.
- Cut pile: Start 10–12 mm; increase once consistent.
- Loop pile: Start 8–10 mm.
- See full ranges: gun troubleshooting.
Move 3: Match Yarn to Needle
Wrong yarn/needle combo = skips or jams. Use 3–4 ply worsted for standard needles.
- Too thin? Double-strand or switch to thicker yarn.
- Too thick? Use larger needle or thinner yarn.
- Full chart: yarn matching.
Decision Tree Summary
- Loops skip → Check tension (Move 1).
- Still skipping → Drop pile height (Move 2).
- Still skipping → Check yarn/needle match (Move 3).
- Still issues → Check blade sharpness/alignment.
Video demos: Watch our troubleshooting videos for visual walkthroughs.
💡 Pro Tip: These 3 moves solve most skips, but a complete course shows you how to prevent them before they happen. Learn the prevention system