From a Certified Oxford Instructor
If you’ve ever admired the satisfying rhythm of punch needle rug hooking, you’ll know that it all starts with one simple step—threading your punch needle. Get this part right, and your yarn will flow like a dream. Miss it, and you’ll probably find yourself untangling, re-threading, or wondering why your loops look lopsided. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
In fact, as Amy Oxford herself often says, the Oxford Punch Needle was designed to make the craft simple and accessible for everyone.
“My greatest reward for designing my tools has been the unexpected letters of thanks that I receive from customers. Many arthritis sufferers have written to say that our punch has allowed them to continue with the craft they love! We have also heard from patients recovering from strokes and other ailments who are especially pleased with the Oxford Punch Needle because, unlike other punches, it can be threaded with one hand.”
That ease of use is exactly what makes the Oxford Punch Needle so beloved among fiber artists around the world. So, let’s go over how to thread it—both the Regular Point and Fine Point versions—just the way we teach in class.
Watch this video as Amy demonstrates how to thread the punch needle
Step 1: Hold Your Needle the Right Way
Start by holding your Oxford Punch Needle so that the slanted, beveled side of the handle is facing you. That’s the side where you’ll see the groove or “channel” running up the shaft it’s where your yarn will sit.
Step 2: Thread Through the Eye
Take the end of your yarn and pass it through the small eye near the tip of your needle. You can do this with your fingers. Simply nub the yarn to make a pointy tip to enter the needle eye. If you are working with fabric, snip off the edge to make a pointy edge that you can thread through the eye easily.
Once the yarn is through, pull a few inches of it out from the other side. That’s it for this step, easy, right?
To thread the Oxford fine point punch needle, thread the metal hoop on the tool handle before threading the eye of the needle.
Step 3: Place the Yarn Along the Channel
Now comes the fun part. Lay your yarn along the channel (that groove on the front of your needle), and gently pull it downward toward the handle. The yarn will naturally settle into the slot.
Give it a gentle tug back and forth a couple of times, as this helps the yarn find its happy place. Once it’s resting smoothly in the groove, you’re ready to start punching!
Regular Point Oxford Punch Needle
If you’re working with rug yarn, bulky yarns, or fabric strips, this is your go-to needle. The loops created are thick and plush, giving your finished work that cozy, handcrafted feel. Perfect for making rugs, cushions, or wall hangings that have bold, chunky textures.
When teaching beginners, we often recommend starting with a #10 Oxford Regular Point needle because it gives you immediate, satisfying results — you can see your progress loop by loop!
|
|
|
Fine Point Oxford Punch Needle
The Fine Point version is designed for lighter-weight yarns, a DK or light worsted weight Ideal for detailed or delicate work, like portraits, fine lettering, or small designs. Produces finer loops that give your project a smoother, more intricate surface. Many artists love using the Fine Point for decorative wall art or detailed motifs on smaller pieces.
Both fine-point and regular-point punch needles feature the same ergonomic wooden handle (made from natural maple or colorful Symfonie wood) and stainless-steel needle tip, designed for comfort, precision, and longevity.
You can punch for hours without hand fatigue, and trust me, many of us do!
|
|
|
Choosing the Right Yarn
Matching your yarn to your punch needle size makes all the difference between frustration and flow.
For Regular Point Needles, use rug yarn, bulky wool, or strips of fabric. These thicker fibers fill the loops beautifully and work best with the larger needle diameter.
For Fine Point Needles, use DK, sport, or worsted-weight yarns if you’re going for fine detail.
Instructor tip: Never try to “force” a thick yarn through a fine-point needle. It’s tempting, but it can block the shaft or damage your tool. Your yarn should glide easily — if it doesn’t, switch to a larger needle or a finer yarn.
If you’re looking for yarn inspiration, check out the Violet Jane Yarn Collection, known for its smooth texture and gorgeous color range of hand-dyed solid and variegated shades, perfect for both fine and regular punch needle projects.
Why Threading Matters So Much
Proper threading sets you up for success. It’s the foundation of a smooth punching experience. Once threaded correctly, you can focus on what really matters, enjoying the meditative rhythm of the craft.
So, take a deep breath, thread that needle, and join the growing community of punch needle makers around the world.
Happy punching — and welcome to the Oxford family of makers!
Leave a comment