If you are just starting with tufting or want to improve your setup, choosing the right accessories makes the difference between a successful project and hours of frustration. Here you’ll find the list of essential accessories, the extras that raise the quality, a section dedicated to spare parts and practical tips to work better, faster and safely.
Updated on 26/08/2025
Index
- 1) The basics: fabric, frame and tufting machine
- 2) Yarns, cones and thread management
- 3) Cutting and finishing: scissors, trimmers and combs
- 4) Glue, primer and backing
- 5) Marking, tracing and measuring tools
- 6) Safety and posture
- 7) Spare parts: what to always keep on hand
- 8) Regular maintenance: cleaning and lubrication
- 9) Recommended setup: quick start checklist
- 10) Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- 11) Useful resources from the Kreoho blog
1) The basics: fabric, frame and tufting machine
The fundamental trio of tufting is made of fabric, frame and tufting machine.
- The frame is the sturdy structure on which, thanks to perimeter nails, the fabric can be fixed and kept in tension during tufting;
- The fabric is the base cloth on which the embroidery is carried out;
- The Tufting Machine must be chosen according to the desired pile: Cut Pile for a velvety/trimmed effect, Loop Pile for a more graphic and durable loop look.
If you want to discover differences and uses of the techniques, review the introductory guide:
What is tufting? Complete guide
Discover tufting fabrics See available frames Choose your Tufting Machine
2) Yarns, cones and thread management
The quality of a rug depends greatly on the yarn: composition, thickness and smoothness during use with the tufting machine. Yarns that are too elastic or irregularly twisted can cause inconsistent tension and missed stitches. Use quality yarns and make sure the thread runs smoothly, without friction or skips.
For thread handling, use guides and supports: cone holder rod (usually attached to the frame), thread eyelet, spacer between fabric and scissors... so that the tension remains constant. Prevent the cone from unwinding irregularly or the thread from snagging and disrupting the machine’s run. If working with multiple colors, organize the cones by color zone and pre-label them: you’ll save time and stay organized.
Accessories for yarns and guides
3) Cutting and finishing: scissors, trimmers and combs
Finishing turns a good job into a professional piece. Finishing scissors are used for trimming edges, tight corners and typographic details; an electric trimmer evens out the pile (cut pile) and makes the surface uniform, removing micro unevenness. Combs and brushes help lift or “comb” the pile before cutting.
If you want to learn more about finishing tools and techniques, here’s a dedicated article:
Discover scissors, trimmers and finishing tools
4) Glue, primer and backing
Backing and glue consolidate the work. After tufting, the back of the piece must be stabilized with an appropriate glue (latex or vinyl depending on the project) to hold the yarn in place. The backing (felt or sturdy fabric) is applied to give structure, stability and durability.
Work in a ventilated environment, spread evenly and allow sufficient drying time before further finishing. Remember: different adhesives have different drying times and behaviors; always test on a sample first.
5) Marking, tracing and measuring tools
Good planning starts with clean tracing. Chalk pencils, washable markers and rulers help transfer the design onto the fabric without smudges. Squares help maintain verticals/horizontals, while curves are useful for letters and arches. A tape measure and a level (or laser) ensure consistent proportions and alignments.
6) Safety and posture
Tufting produces noise and fiber dust: hearing protection, safety glasses and, if necessary, filter masks are strongly recommended. For long sessions, take care of posture: anti-fatigue mats and platforms help reduce strain on back and ankles. Keep the space clear of cables and obstacles, use quality extension cords with switch and overload protection.
7) Spare parts: what to always keep on hand
With use, some parts wear out. Keeping a small stock of spare parts prevents unexpected downtime. In particular: scissor blades, return springs, button units, motor brushes (where provided), thread guides and screws. For those working on commission, it’s useful to have a replacement button with metal clamps (no soldering needed) and a ready-to-use scissor blade.
8) Regular maintenance: cleaning and lubrication
Wool dust, lint and micro residues of glue/lubricant are the enemies of smooth operation. After each session, brush with a soft-bristle brush over the needle guide, scissors and trigger; every 2–4 weeks (depending on use) apply light oil only to the mechanical points. Avoid oil on the board and electrical contacts. A microfiber cloth helps remove excess.
For detailed instructions and recommended oiling points, see the Kreoho guide:
Cleaning & Lubrication: step-by-step guide
Maintenance kits and accessories
9) Recommended setup: quick start checklist
To start off on the right foot:
- Fabric + frame in the correct size, with even tension.
- Tufting machine chosen according to pile (Cut/Loop) and project.
- Quality yarn, stable cones and orderly thread guide.
- Finishing tools: scissors, trimmer, combs.
- Glue + backing suitable for the intended use.
- Basic spare parts: scissor blade, button, springs, screws.
10) Common mistakes and how to avoid them
The most frequent mistakes involve a poorly stretched fabric, yarn that does not flow, finishing without proper tools and lack of maintenance. Keep the fabric tight (also by tightening the frame step by step), use thread guides and stable cones, choose the right scissors/trimmer and set up a small cleaning routine.
If the machine does not stop when you release the button (auto-run), also consult our specific guide with diagnosis and three practical solutions (handle screw, tab/ground contact, button unit replacement):
See the guide on stuck button and auto-run
