Activity

Discover the fundamentals ofpunch needle rug hooking while creating a soft and functional winter pouch — a small vessel to hold and carry. In this workshop, students will learn how to transform a textile surface into a three-dimensional object, no sewing machine required. Through the rhythmic, meditative motion of the punch needle, participants will explore how loops of cotton string can be built into texture, shape, and form.

The class begins with an introduction to thehistory and practice of rug hooking, considering what a rug is — its two sides, its structure, and its potential beyond the floor. Students will learn how to thread and use a punch needle, change yarns, fill in a surface, and repair small mistakes.

Working withcommon cotton string and a providedpunch needle and frame, each participant will design and make their ownneedle punched winter pouch — soft, tactile, and textural. Along the way, we’ll explorealternative materials such as hardware store fibers, stash yarns, and up-cycled garments.

The course will conclude with finishing techniques: trimming, poking, pressing, and whip-stitching edges to create a reversible surface, and simple hand construction methods to shape the work into a pouch.

From this foundation, students will leave with a finished object, a high quality punch needle and frame, and the skills to continue experimenting — creatingpillows, accessories, wall hangings, and more.

Date + Time
Thursday, December 11th, 2025, 5 – 9 pm ET

Location
Tatter Textile Library: 505 Carroll Street, #2B, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Cost

$325

Materials

All materials are included with ticket purchase. Students will leave with their own #10 Regular Oxford Punch Needle and 18 x 18” gripper strip reusable frame.

Additional Materials include:

• Foundational monks cloth
• Illustrated instruction booklet and resource guide
• 1-2 Skeins of butcher's twine
• Notions such as darning needles, fabric pen, scissors and ruler will be provided for class