Tufting Gun Tension Settings Guide
Quick Answer: Correct tension lets yarn feed smoothly without slack. Too tight = yarn breaks. Too loose = loops fall out.
How to Adjust Tension
- Locate tension dial — Usually on side or top of gun (check manual)
- Start loose — Turn counterclockwise to minimum tension
- Tighten gradually — Turn clockwise 1-2 clicks at a time
- Test on scrap — Tuft test line after each adjustment
- Find sweet spot — Yarn feeds smoothly, loops hold securely
Signs of Incorrect Tension
Too Tight:
- Yarn breaks frequently
- Hard to pull yarn through by hand
- Gun sounds strained
- Yarn frays at tension point
Fix: Loosen 2-3 clicks
Too Loose:
- Loops fall out easily
- Excess yarn slack
- Inconsistent loop formation
- Yarn bunches at gun
Fix: Tighten 1-2 clicks
Tension by Yarn Type
| Yarn Type | Tension Setting |
|---|---|
| Thin (2-ply) | Medium-tight (prevents slack) |
| Medium (3-4 ply) | Medium (standard setting) |
| Thick (5+ ply) | Loose-medium (prevents breaking) |
| Wool | Slightly looser (more delicate) |
| Acrylic | Standard (more durable) |
Quick Tension Test
Pull Test:
- Thread gun with yarn
- Pull yarn gently by hand from needle end
- Should have slight resistance (not stuck, not free-flowing)
- Adjust until pull feels smooth but controlled
Need a Gun with Better Tension Control?
If your gun's tension dial is difficult to adjust or doesn't hold settings, consider upgrading to a higher-quality model with reliable tension mechanisms.
See Best Tufting Guns (Reliable Models) →More Gun Settings Help
Learn all tufting gun settings and adjustments.
Complete Gun Guide →