One of the most common questions among tufting enthusiasts is: “How can I make my tufting rug even?” After finishing the weaving phase with the tufting machine, the surface never appears completely smooth. Some sections may look slightly longer or uneven, regardless of the default pile height setting. To achieve a uniform, professional result, the finishing stage is essential.
Contents
- 1. Why the rug is never perfectly even
- 2. Manual trimming with scissors
- 3. Finishing with a trimmer
- 4. Professional shearing with a Flat Shearing machine
- 5. Flat Shearing machine safety tips
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 7. Kreoho Blog Resources
1. Why the rug is never perfectly even
After tufting, the fabric always looks slightly irregular. This is due to several factors:
- Pressure applied while working;
- Movement speed of the machine;
- Thread tension and canvas density;
- Possible curves or overlaps of colors and shapes.
For this reason, regardless of your chosen style — whether a 3D and textured look or a flat and compact surface — a finishing step is always necessary. It helps level the surface, remove small height variations and achieve a clean, consistent aesthetic and tactile feel.
2. Manual trimming with scissors
The first option to make a tufting rug even is manual trimming with scissors. This step is essential to remove excess yarn and fix small irregularities or raised areas. Experienced artisans can, with patience and precision, even out the entire surface using only scissors.
For better ergonomics and control, we recommend the Duckbill Tufting Scissors. The curved handle allows a natural working angle and makes it easier to control cutting height without damaging nearby fibers.
However, levelling a whole rug only with scissors can be extremely time-consuming, especially for large pieces or intricate designs.
3. Finishing with a trimmer
The tufting trimmer is the most popular tool among creators for achieving a clean and detailed finish. It’s an electric shaver designed to level the rug surface by gradually removing longer fibers.
The most suitable tool is the Tufting Trimmer Rosewood, ideal for medium-sized areas. It’s also great for creating 3D effects and dividing lines between different yarn colors.
For those who want to simplify the leveling process, there’s also the Tufting Finishing Guide, an accessory that helps maintain consistent distance and achieve smoother cuts. Still, trimmers aren’t always ideal for large surfaces — they remain a time-demanding tool.
4. Professional shearing with a Flat Shearing machine
For a truly professional result and perfectly even surface, the best solution is a Professional Flat Shearing Machine. This device ensures a uniform cut across the surface, creating a “velvety” and compact effect.
We thoroughly tested this machine before including it in the Kreoho catalog. The result is truly outstanding: the rug instantly looks denser, softer, and more professional. However, it’s important to note that this is not a beginner’s tool. It requires practice, attention, and a safe workspace.
The main advantage over trimmers and scissors is its ability to even out large areas quickly while maintaining a perfectly consistent cut.
5. Flat Shearing machine safety tips
The Professional Shearing Machine is powerful and must be handled carefully. Here are key recommendations to ensure safety and long-term use:
⚠️ Usage precautions
Turn the machine on and off only when it’s resting on the rug
Starting generates high torque and can cause imbalance or injury. Never hold the machine in the air when turning it on or off.
Be careful near edges
At first, avoid working too close to the edges — the machine can damage or pull fibers along the borders. Start from the center, then use a household shaver for side finishing.
Professional device
It’s not a domestic shaver; it requires steady hands and some experience.
Adjust gradually
Begin with a higher cutting height and lower it step by step.
Never stay on one spot
Avoid pressing too long on the same point to prevent marks or burns on fibers.
Unplug before maintenance
Always disconnect power before cleaning, changing accessories, or doing maintenance.
Keep children and pets away
Ensure kids and pets are at a safe distance during use.
After use
Remove fiber residues and lubricate the blade and gears regularly.
Watch the video tutorial on how to use the Flat Shearing Machine
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The rug still looks uneven after trimming — what can I do?
In that case, your yarn tension or canvas density might not be optimal.
Should I trim decorative wall hangings too?
Yes, even tufting wall art and panels benefit from light trimming — it enhances the look and detail definition.
Can I use a Flat Shearing machine on all types of yarn?
Yes, but adjust the blade depending on the fiber type. Wool yarns need a gentler cut than acrylic yarns.
7. Kreoho Blog Resources
Read more tips and tutorials from our Blog:
- What is tufting?
- Which yarn for tufting?
- Which accessories for tufting?
- How to lubricate your tufting machine?
- What is secondary backing for tufting?
Understanding how to make a tufting rug even means mastering your tools, using the right techniques, and balancing precision with patience. With practice, even uneven surfaces can become harmonious and textural masterpieces.
