Punch needle embroidery has been the go-to embroidery technique for some time now. As craft enthusiasts, we shared a blog post with you last January to catch you up on everything you need to know about this wonderful craft. And now that we’ve made our first creations with our brand-new Punch Needles, we’re going to take a closer look with you at the yarns you’ll use to make your next punched Cushion, wall hanging, Cuddly Toy, or rug. So grab a cup of coffee or tea and get comfortable, because we’re going to fill you in on everything you need to know about punch needle yarns! ;)
Before we dive into the wonderful world of punch yarns, here’s a quick tip on the do’s (and not the don’ts) that will have you gliding your punch needle across your fabric in no time.
How do you work with punch yarns?
Punching is an embroidery technique. With this technique, you use a punch needle to push a thread into the fabric, then pull the needle back out. By repeating this motion, you create a design in the fabric. Punch needle embroidery is a really fun craft technique where you can quickly see the results of all your hard work! :) But how can you make sure your punch needle embroidery creations are a hit right away?
Tip 1 - Adjust the punch cloth to match the thickness of your yarns.
Tip 2 - Choose a Punch Needle that's suitable for the thickness of your yarn.
Tip 3 - Keep an eye on the tension of the thread. Make sure it’s always just right! Not too loose and not too tight. After all, it would be such a waste of all that hard work if you ended up pulling it all out in one go.
Tip 4 - Always glue your work in place, because if you don't, you run the risk of the creation coming apart. So once your work is finished, secure the yarn on the back with fabric glue. You're welcome! ;)
Which yarns are suitable for punch needles?
Not all yarns in our selection are a good choice for using a punch needle. Why? For punch needle work, you need coarser yarns. These are yarns that have a bit of volume, are slightly rougher in texture, and at the same time are springy—yarn properties that, when combined, ensure the yarn stays firmly in the fabric right away. Thick cotton, for example, is a “no-no,” because the yarn is less pliable and therefore less springy. “What is the right choice, Yarnplaza?” you might be wondering. Grab a pen and paper (or open the notepad on your computer or smartphone) and take notes!
Slightly thicker wires
If you generally enjoy working with slightly sturdier, thicker yarns or would like to try something different, you might want to consider Rico Essentials Mega Wool Chunky, DROPS Nepal, DROPS Alaska, and Phildar Phil Looping—all of which are great yarns for a new punch project!
(Thin) soft threads
If thin, soft yarns are more your thing, don’t worry! We have some really great yarn recommendations for you, too. For example, Rico has a wonderful line of yarns that work beautifully in punchwork. Think of the Rico Essentials (Mega Merino, Soft Merino, and Soft Merino Aran), Rico Creative (Sport DK and Soft Wool Aran), and Rico Sticktwist embroidery thread—yarns that are perfect for finer punchwork projects.
If Katia has stolen your heart, then you’re going to absolutely love Katia Merino Aran. The yarn is wonderfully soft and comes in many colors. This makes creating the perfect color combination easy peasy! :)
And if we may give you one last yarn tip for creating beautiful tatting projects, do you have a moment to check out Yarn and Colors Happy? It’s a soft and supple yarn made from a blend of wool, Polyamide, and Acrylic—and it’s known for being “versatile.” Happy isn’t just a great choice for using a punch needle. Crocheting and knitting clothing, accessories, and home decor items also goes smoothly with this Yarn and Colors yarn. So Happy really is a yarn that’ll make you… happy! :)
What kind of yarn will you use to make your new punch craft?
