What is tufting with Tara Axford and Nicola Rough

Take Two course creator Tara Axford and content manager Nicola Rough answer your most-asked tufting questions. With clips from Kerri Hollingsworth’s previously unreleased course interview and US tufting artist Melissa Monroe, they explore what tufting is, how to choose a tufting gun, why your frame matters, how to work with recycled yarns, carving, and caring for your body as you tuft.

Show Notes

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Confidence comes from starting. Kerri’s tufting gun sat untouched for months because it intimidated her. You’ll hear how it soon becomes an extension of your body, and why your willingness to learn matters more than the perfect setup.

• Your frame matters as much as your gun. Many tufting troubles start with a loose canvas, not the gun. A solid frame and tightly stretched cloth set you up for success.

• Start with what you already have. Beyond the gun, your yarn stash and a small frame are enough to begin, and working with what’s on hand takes the pressure off designing.

• Carving brings your work to life. Discover how trimming the pile as you go adds depth, reveals colour and creates hills and valleys.

• Pace yourself. Melissa’s experience is a reminder to tuft in shorter sessions and listen to your body

During the interview, we shared some of Kerri’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made an image available for you below. 

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Explore the images from this episode: