In addition to punching tools, you'll need a few materials to work with — the fabric into which you'll be punching, and the threads that will create the wonderful punched surface.
Weaver's Cloth
The best foundation fabric for punchneedle work is weaver's cloth. This finely woven cloth is a blend of cotton and polyester. The strength of polyester gives a lot of resiliency to this fabric, which helps ensure that it won't tear as it's being punched. Draw your designs directly onto weaver's cloth, or use an iron-on pen or pencil to transfer your pattern. (Tip: you might be able to find weaver's cloth in local fabric stores, but if you can't, we've got it!) Color: White. $2.50 for one-half yard.
Wool Threads
Fine wool threads are wonderful for punching. Wool creates a very lush, soft surface that has a matte appearance (cotton embroidery floss, which seems to be most commonly used for punching, tends to have a much shinier and harsher look in punched pieces). Two brands of very fine wool threads are available:
Bella Lusso — solid colored, commercially dyed wool threads from Italy. Single strand, 35 yards per skein. $2.50 per skein
Lorikeet — hand-dyed, variegated/mottled wool threads (Australian wool, dyed in Washington State). 9 strands loosely plied (use one strand for punching). Total of 54 yards per skein. $4 per skein. Click here to see colors available.
For ordering information, click here
