First Rug Setup Checklist
Your pre-flight routine for a clean first session. Check off each item before you start tufting.
☑️ Pre-Purchase Check
Tufting gun – Cut pile (AK-I/II) or loop pile (AK-III). See gun guide.
Frame – Minimum 24×30" (2×2.5 ft) with gripper strips. See frame guide.
Backing fabric – Primary backing or monk's cloth (3–5 yards). See fabric guide.
Yarn – 2–4 strands DK/worsted weight, 3–4 colors minimum. See yarn guide.
Adhesive – Synthetic rubber (Roberts 3095) or latex (1 quart minimum).
Secondary backing – Felt or anti-slip mat (cut to rug size + 2").
Scissors/trimmer – Sharp fabric scissors or electric trimmer.
Marker or projector – For transferring design to fabric.
🔧 Frame Setup (5 minutes)
Mount frame securely – Wall-mount or freestanding, no wobble. Run 5-min stability test.
Install gripper strips – Teeth facing inward, flush with frame edge.
Stretch fabric – Top → bottom → left → right until drum-tight (1–2cm pinch rebound).
Test center tension – Press palm on center—no movement = good.
🔫 Gun Setup (5 minutes)
Thread yarn – Follow gun's thread path diagram (usually on handle).
Set pile height – Conservative start: 10–12mm (cut), 8–10mm (loop). See settings cheatsheet.
Test on scrap – Tuft 10cm line on corner/scrap fabric to verify settings.
⚠️ Safety Check (2 minutes)
Match voltage – Gun matches your outlet (110V or 220V). Use surge protector.
Secure cords – Route power cord away from work area, no trip hazards.
Eye protection – Safety glasses on (yarn fibers can fly).
Ear protection – Optional but recommended for long sessions (70–80dB).
Workspace clear – No loose yarn, tools within reach, good lighting.
🎨 First Session Prep (10 minutes)
Transfer design – Trace or project your design onto tight fabric. See transfer methods.
Mark center point – Helps maintain symmetry during tufting.
Plan color sequence – Outline first, then fill. Minimize color changes.
Recall 3 Golden Rules – (1) Constant pressure, (2) Correct direction, (3) Never retrace lines. See beginner guide.
✅ Post-Session (5 minutes)
Unplug gun – Always disconnect before storage/maintenance.
Clean workspace – Vacuum loose fibers, store yarn properly.
Check fabric tension – Re-tension if you're continuing tomorrow.
Log progress – Note what worked, what didn't (tension, yarn thickness, etc.).
More resources: tuftingtutorials.com/blog/ • Complete guides: tuftingtutorials.com