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If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or YouTube lately, you’ve probably seen those incredible custom rug videos where artists use giant punch needles to create beautiful textured designs.
Every time one popped up on my feed, I’d stop and watch.
There was just something mesmerizing about it.
But while the giant rugs looked amazing, I never quite convinced myself to try punch needle. It seemed like one of those crafts that looked simple enough, but time consuming and possibly akin embroidery, which I’ve done in the past and enjoyed, but also is a little too slow going for me.
Then this summer, while visiting family in Utah, my cousin handed me one of her punch needle kits and said, “Try it, it’s different, I promise, and I think you’ll like it.”
She’d been designing and refining these kits for several years, and had recently launched a beautiful new collection with brighter, modern colors. Since I love trying new crafts (and honestly have a hard time saying no to a creative project), it seemed like the perfect opportunity.
So… was punch needle actually as intimidating as I’d imagined?
Not even close.
Disclosure: This kit was designed by my cousin, who generously gifted it to me while I was visiting Utah this summer. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through the affiliate links in this post, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.
👉 Check out the Punch Needle Kit here:
https://amzn.to/4vKPU7S
My First Impression
One thing I immediately appreciated was that I didn’t have to figure anything out before getting started.
The kit includes everything you need:
- Punch needle tool & threaders
- Embroidery hoop
- Fabric with the pattern already printed
- Yarn
- Instructions
As someone who regularly jumps into new hobbies, I know how overwhelming that first shopping trip can be.
“Do I need special needles?”
“What size yarn?”
“Which fabric?”
This kit removes all of those questions.
You simply open the box and start crafting.
My Expectations
Going into this project, I expected punch needle to be…
- Difficult to learn
- Hard on my hands
- Tedious
- A little frustrating
Instead…
Within just a few minutes, I had figured out the basic motion and found myself settling into a really relaxing rhythm.
It turns out there’s something surprisingly satisfying about stabbing things… in this case yarn through fabric.
Either way…
It was oddly therapeutic. It felt like coloring for Adults in the way you aren’t constantly making difficult decisions. You’re simply filling in one section at a time while watching the design slowly come to life.
I think this would make the perfect audiobook craft. It requires enough attention that you stay engaged, but not so much that you can’t listen to a good story or enjoy an evening chatting with friends.
My Honest Review
Heads up – I love my cousin dearly and I know in this review I’m completely biased, but also my cousin in amazing, and this kit was enough fun that I was pretty dang excited when she gave me a few extra bits I could share with my kids so they wouldn’t keep trying to take over mine.
And since this is the first post in my new How Hard Is It Actually to Make? series, I thought I’d score every craft using the same review system.
🪡 Difficulty
2/5 – If you can color inside the lines, you can probably learn punch needle.
There are a couple small techniques to learn at the beginning, but after that it’s mostly repetition.
I think this would be a great project for older kids (around age 10+) with a little guidance.
⏰ Time
About 30 minutes per coaster.
I actually finished the entire six-piece kit because I genuinely enjoyed it.
💰 Value
5/5
The kit is around $20, includes everything you need, and makes six finished coasters.
That felt like a great value to me, especially compared to many craft kits that only make one project.
😌 Relaxation
5/5
This might have been my favorite part, it was relaxing, simple, and a little repetitive in the best possible way.
Definitely one of those crafts you pick up after a busy day when your brain needs a break.
🎁 Giftability
5/5
The finished coasters are cute, I’d happily use them in my own home or package them up as a handmade gift.
📦 Storage
Small. Everything fits neatly back into the box or a drawer, so it doesn’t become another hobby that takes over your craft room.
📺 TV Friendly
This was probably the only category that surprised me.
I’d give it 0/5 for TV watching. Once I got into the rhythm, I realized I needed to keep my eyes on the fabric almost the entire time.
An audiobook or podcast?
Absolutely.
A TV show?
Probably not.
Final Verdict
⭐ 10/10
Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
Yes, my cousin designed this kit. But I also genuinely think it’s exactly the kind of project my crafty readers would love.
If you’re someone who enjoys beginner-friendly crafts, likes making something beautiful without needing months of practice, or simply wants a relaxing hobby that doesn’t require a huge investment, I think this is a wonderful place to start.
And judging by the fact that I didn’t stop after making just one coaster…
…I’d say punch needle officially has a new fan.
Watch My Full Review
If you’d like to see me try punch needle for the very first time, including my mistakes, first impressions, and complete beginner review, you can watch my YouTube video below.
Want to Try It Yourself?
👉 Check out the Punch Needle Kit here:
https://amzn.to/4vKPU7S
Disclosure: This kit was designed by my cousin, who generously gifted it to me while I was visiting Utah this summer. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through the affiliate links in this post, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.
