The Secret to Pro-Level Tufting? It Starts With Your Yarn.
Choosing the right rug tufting yarn can make or break your project. The yarn you choose determines your rug’s texture, durability, and even how smoothly your tufting gun runs. Whether you’re crafting a statement wall hanging or a high-traffic floor rug, the right yarn makes all the difference.
Here’s the good news: You don’t need to test 50+ yarns to find the perfect match. This guide breaks down the best tufting yarns for every:
- Budget (from $3 acrylic to luxury wool)
- Skill level (beginner-friendly picks vs. pro-grade)
- Project type (floor rugs, wall art, pillows)
🧶 Paintbox Yarns Are On Sale at LoveCrafts
Bright acrylics, soft wool blends, and tufting-friendly skeins — all discounted now while stock lasts.
Shop the SaleBest Rug Tufting Yarn Types Compared
🧶 Quick Look: Use this cheat sheet to compare wool, acrylic, and cotton yarns for tufting rugs!
When it comes to rug tufting yarn, the three most common types are wool, cotton, acrylic and blends. Each has its unique characteristics, and your choice will depend on your project’s requirements.
🎯 Our Top 3 Rug Tufting Yarns (Best Picks)
Skip the guesswork! See our quick-hit table of the best yarns for beginners, wall art, and durable floor rugs.
Jump to Comparison TableWool Yarn: Premium Picks for Every Project
Wool is the top-performing fiber for tufting, but not all wool is equal. Choose based on your project type:
1. Premium Wool for Floor Rugs (Heavy Traffic)
- Best for: Durable, high-traffic rugs.
- Why? Holds shape, resists crushing, lasts decades.
- Shop Top Rug Tufting Yarn Deals:
- Tuft the World’s Reflect Wool (Ultra-dense, made for tufting guns)
- 100% New Zealand Wool (Budget-friendly but sturdy)
A. Soft Wool for Wall Art & Decorative Pieces
- Best for: Wall hangings, pillows, non-traffic items.
- Why? Lighter weight, easier to carve details.
- Top Picks:
- Merino Wool Yarn (Softer, pricier, vibrant colors)
You may enjoy: Wool Yarn for Rug Tufting: The Ultimate Guide to Natural Fiber Yarns
2. Acrylic Yarn (Best for Beginners & Wall Art)
For those just starting out with rug tufting, acrylic yarn is often the most beginner-friendly option. It’s incredibly affordable and comes in a vast array of bright and vibrant colors, making it ideal for practice and experimenting with different designs.
Best for: Practice, colorful wall hangings, low-budget projects.
Why? Cheap, vibrant colors, but less durable (plastic fibers).
Top Picks:
- Paintbox Yarns Simply Super Chunky→ On Sale at Lovecrafts
- Red Heart Super Saver (100+ colors) → View on Amazon
- Caron Simply Soft (smoother finish) → Amazon pick
♻️ Pro Tip: Save acrylic scraps for stuffing pillows or amigurumi!
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Start Free Trial3. Cotton Yarn: The Eco-Conscious Tufter’s Sweet Spot
For crafters who want a natural, budget-friendly fiber that’s gentler on the planet than acrylic, cotton yarn strikes a perfect balance. It’s breathable, easy to work with, and ideal for projects that won’t face heavy wear.
Best for: Wall hangings • Low-traffic rugs • Eco-conscious crafters
Pros:
✓ More affordable than wool
✓ Biodegradable & sustainable
✓ Mercerized versions offer extra shine
Cons:
✗ Less durable than wool (crushes under heavy use)
✗ Doesn’t carve as crisply
✗ Not ideal for high-traffic areas
Top Picks:
- Lion Brand 24/7 Mercerized Cotton (Stronger, shinier finish)
- Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton (Budget-friendly at $3.50/skein)
Pro Tip: Mercerized cotton is worth the upgrade – it’s stronger and makes colors pop!
Yarn Comparison Table – Amazon Shopping
| Yarn | Best For | Durability | Wall Art Suitability | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% New Zealand Wool | High-traffic rugs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | View on Amazon |
| 30% Wool / 70% Acrylic Blend | Wall art, light-use rugs | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Shop LoveCrafts |
| Knit Picks Wool of the Andes | Wall art, poofs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View on Amazon |
Yarn Weight: What You Need to Know
Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn and plays a crucial role in the texture and density of your tufted rug. For rug tufting, the most commonly used yarn weights are worsted weight (4) and bulky weight (5).
- Worsted Weight (4): This is the standard choice for tufting rugs. It’s versatile, easy to work with, and creates a balanced texture.
- Bulky Weight (5): Thicker than worsted weight, bulky yarn is ideal for creating plush, dense rugs with a cozy feel.
Avoid lightweight or super bulky yarns, as they can be challenging to work with and may not produce the desired results.
Choosing the Right Colors
Color selection is where your creativity truly shines! When choosing colors for your rug tufting yarn, consider the following tips:
- Start with a Color Palette: Decide on a color scheme that complements your space or design vision. Use tools like Adobe Color or Pinterest for inspiration.
- Contrast is Key: Use contrasting colors to make your design pop. For example, pair dark colors with light ones to create depth and dimension.
- Neutral Basics: Stock up on neutral colors like white, black, gray, and beige. These are versatile and can be used in almost any project.
- Experiment with Variegated Yarn: Variegated yarns have multiple colors in one strand, creating a unique, blended effect in your rug.
Where to Buy Yarn for Rug Tufting?
Finding high-quality tufting yarn is essential for creating beautiful, long-lasting rugs. Here are some trusted suppliers and retailers:
- Local Craft Stores: Stores like Michael’s and JOANN offer a wide selection of acrylic and cotton yarns at affordable prices. They often have sales and discounts, making them a great option for beginners.
- Online Retailers: LoveCrafts offer a vast range of yarn types, including wool, cotton, and acrylic.
- Bulk Suppliers: If you’re working on large projects, consider buying yarn in bulk from suppliers like Ice Yarns to save money.
Pro Tips for Buying and Using Tufting Yarn
- Buy Extra Yarn: Always purchase 15% more yarn than you think you’ll need to account for mistakes and practice rows.
- Match Dye Lots: If you’re buying multiple skeins of the same color, ensure they’re from the same dye lot to avoid color inconsistencies.
- Store Yarn Properly: Keep your yarn in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and tangling.
- Experiment with Blends: Try blending different yarn types (e.g., wool and acrylic) to create unique textures and effects.
Video Tutorials and Additional Resources
To help you get started, check out our video tutorials on rug tufting yarn selection and techniques:
- Check out these informative videos by:
The Rug Maker Co Yarn you can use to make rugs with a tufting gun - Also, That Rug Maker’s short Tufting Rug From Start to Finish
Tufting Yarn FAQ’S
Q: What’s the cheapest yarn for tufting?
Acrylic! Try Red Heart Super Saver (under $5).
Can I use regular yarn for tufting?
Yes, but stick to worsted or bulky weight for best results.
Is wool yarn worth the price?
For floor rugs, yes. For wall art, try acrylic or wool blends.
Ready to Tuft?
📌 Save this Yarn Comparison Cheat Sheet to your Pinterest board!
Choosing the perfect tufting yarn is a blend of art and science. By understanding the different types, weights, and colors available, you can create stunning rugs that reflect your unique style and vision. Whether you’re a beginner starting with acrylic or an experienced tufter experimenting with wool, the right yarn will elevate your projects to the next level.
