Safety Checklist for First-Time Tufting

A quick preflight to keep you safe and your gear healthy. Takes two minutes; saves you headaches.

1. Power & voltage: Match your gun to 110/220V and use a surge protector.
2. Stable frame: No wobble; feet braced or wall-mounted (frame guide).
3. Cord safety: Route cords behind you; never across your path.
4. Eye/ear protection: Especially for longer sessions.
5. Blade respect: Unplug before changing blades/needles (gun safety).
6. Back/shoulders: Neutral stance, gun perpendicular; adjust frame height.
7. Yarn drag: Use a yarn stand/eyelets to prevent snags (tips).
8. Fabric tension: Re-tension every 10–15 minutes (tension test).
9. Work breaks: 5 minutes every 30 to rest hands and check the setup.
10. Clean finish area: Keep adhesive, backing, and trimmer separate from the tufting zone.

Related: Check our common kit pitfalls to avoid equipment issues from the start.