Essential Oxford Tools You Need to Start Punch Needle Rug Hooking By the instructors at Oxford Company (OXCO)

Are you curious about punch needle rug hooking? Want to get started? We at OXCO totally get it. Punch needle rug hooking is creative, therapeutic, and yes, completely addictive in the best way. It’s impossible to put down. If you’re looking for an outlet for your inner artist, making personalized art or any other reason, punch needle is your new happy place.

The technique evolved from traditional rug hooking and is now having a very modern moment. Why? Because it’s easy to learn, delightfully meditative, and produces beautiful textured art with just a few essential tools.

So, let’s walk you through the must-haves to get started on your punch needle journey—with a little OXCO wisdom.

1. The Punch Needle Tool

First things first: the punch needle itself. This humble tool is the heart of your craft. It lets you punch yarn through fabric to form loops that magically (and satisfyingly) stack into cozy designs.

We at OXCO naturally recommend the Oxford Punch Needle, developed by the legendary Amy Oxford. It’s ergonomically designed, crafted from maple or colorful Symfonie wood, and fitted with an electroplated stainless steel tip for smooth stitching. The handle has been thoughtfully designed to be your crafting companion. It can be threaded with one hand and fits comfortably in your hands while you punch.

Here’s what you need to remember:

• Fine Point Oxford Punch Needles = great for fine yarn
• Regular Point Oxford Punch Needles = perfect for rug yarn and even strips of fabric

Both fine and regular point punch needles come in multiple sizes for varying loop lengths. For example, size

1. #8 Regular = ½" / 13mm Loop
2. #9 Regular = ⅜" / 10mm Loop
3. #10 Regular = ¼" / 6mm Loop
4. #8 Fine = ½" / 13mm Loop
5. #9 Fine = ⅜" / 10mm Loop
6. #10 Fine = ¼" / 6mm Loop
7. #13 Fine = ³⁄₁₆" / 5mm Loop
8. #14 Fine = ⅛" / 3mm Loop

2. Foundation Fabric

Next, you’ll need a foundation fabric that can take repeated punches, literally. Monk’s Cloth is the undisputed champion in the world of punch needle art among contenders such as Weaver’s Cloth, Linen and Duck Fabric.

Our go-to is monk’s cloth made from 100% cotton with 13 double threads per inch. The punch needle cloth is woven with a white line every two inches to help keep your pattern straight, which, let’s be honest, is a blessing, especially if it’s your first project.

Monk’s cloth pairs beautifully with all Oxford Punch Needle sizes. It's sturdy yet forgiving, a rare combo we deeply admire. Our punch needle patterns are traced on monk’s cloth fabric to help you create projects. Our kits also include patterns traced on monk’s cloth.

You can learn more about the monk’s cloth fabric for punch needle rug hooking with a class at the Oxford Rug Hooking School.

3. Punch Needle Frames and Hoops

Let’s talk about frames. If your fabric isn’t stretched tight like a drum, punching can get wobbly real fast. A good frame is key to consistent, frustration-free stitching.

You’ve got two trusty options:

• Gripper Frames: These pro-level frames have tiny metal teeth (similar to carpet tacks) that keep your fabric secure.
• No-Slip Hoops: Perfect for beginners or smaller projects. They keep your fabric from sagging mid-punch, unlike regular embroidery hoops that tend to throw in the towel too early.

4. Yarn

Now for the fun part—yarn! This is where your punch needle project and personality shines. Thick, fluffy rug yarn creates bold, chunky designs that pop. Fine yarns are perfect for intricate patterns and soft texture.

At OXCO, we’re particularly fond of our Jane Violet Yarns. Hand-dyed in swoon-worthy solid and variegated hues, they’re crafted from 100% wool and designed to work seamlessly with Oxford Punch Needles. The collection of fine yarns and rug yarns allows you to experiment and express your creativity.

You didn’t need another reason to start a yarn stash, but… here it is.

5. Punch Needle Accessories

Your punch needle craft essentials are not complete without a few unsung heroes:

• Sharp Scissors: For precision trimming and snipping off rogue loops and the occasional snips of yarn tails.
• Stitch Gauge: Handy accessory to get stitches right. The beech wood tool has a small window to view your work while stitch guidelines are laser etched on the gauge for reference.
• Good Lighting: Natural light or a bright craft lamp makes all the difference

Ready to Punch?

Once you’ve gathered your tools, you’re officially ready to start punch needle rug hooking. From cozy cushions to modern wall art, the possibilities are endless and highly giftable.

We at OXCO always say: relax, enjoy the rhythm, and celebrate every loop, wonky or perfect. And remember, it’s not about getting it right, it’s about loving what you create.

Happy punching!