Choosing the right fabric for your tufting projects

(Updated: July 2025) 

Looking for the perfect fabric for your next tufting project? Should you use monks cloth or jute for your rug? The choice can make or break the look, feel and longevity of your final piece. In this article, you'll find a clear comparison and real advice to help you decide.

What fabric can I use for tufting?

You can use several types of fabric for tufting, but the most common and effective ones are:

• Monks cloth
• Jute cloth
• Primary tufting cloth (a commercial blend often used by professionals)

Important tip: Always choose a fabric that allows yarn to pass through easily, doesn’t tear, and holds loops securely.

Choosing the right fabric for tufting

When it comes to tufting, selecting the right fabric is crucial.
It influences how your yarn behaves, how long your piece lasts, and how enjoyable the process is.

The two most common choices are:

• Jute cloth – natural, durable and coarse
• Monks cloth – soft, stable and tightly woven

Let’s explore each fabric and see what works best for your needs.

What is jute cloth?

Jute cloth is a natural fabric made from the fibers of the jute plant. It's known for its strength, durability and rustic look. This fabric allows good yarn penetration and is popular for rugs and robust designs.

Main characteristics:

• Coarse texture holds yarn in place
• Ideal for floor rugs and wall hangings
• Budget-friendly and eco-friendly
• Can be more difficult to work with for detailed patterns

What is monks cloth?

Monks cloth is a cotton fabric with a tight weave, making it a favorite among tufters. It's especially useful for fine detailing and clean designs. The fabric is soft, doesn't fray easily, and allows for smooth tufting.

Key benefits:

• Stable weave for less stretching
• Perfect for precision and comfort
• Easier to handle, especially for beginners
• Often chosen by professionals and advanced tufters

What is tufting fabric called?

Tufting fabric is commonly referred to as monks cloth, but there are other names too:

• Primary tufting cloth – a specialty fabric made for tufting guns
• Jute burlap – more traditional, used in rug making
• Cotton canvas – sometimes used for small-scale tufting

Jute vs fabric – how do they really compare?

Let’s take a quick look at how jute cloth compares to monks cloth in essential categories:

What is the best cloth for tufting?

The best tufting cloth depends on your project and goals:

• For fine detail, easy handling and professional results → monks cloth
• For durability, affordability and a raw look → jute cloth
• For large-scale production → primary tufting fabric used in industrial rugs

Many tufters say: “Start with monks cloth, experiment with jute later.”

What fabric is best for beginners?

If you're new to tufting and working on a tight budget, jute burlap might be tempting.
But be prepared for some challenges:

• Tougher on hands and needles
• Less forgiving when pulling yarn
• Can shed fibers and fray

That’s why many beginners still invest in monks cloth, because:

• It's easier to control
• Fewer mistakes happen
• It provides cleaner results

Tip: Start small with monks cloth and test jute later once you're confident.

Which fabric should you choose?

The decision depends on what you want to create and how experienced you are.
Here's a quick breakdown:

• Choose jute if:
• You want a natural, rustic texture
• You're making large, bold rugs
• You’re on a tight budget
• Choose monks cloth if:
• You value smoothness and accuracy
• You’re working on detailed designs
• You're a beginner or pro looking for clean results

Final comparison: monks cloth vs jute

To summarise:

• Monks cloth = precision, comfort, cleaner finish
• Jute = durability, rustic texture, lower price

Many tufters use both depending on the project. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your preferred material. Sometimes, the best tufting experience comes from mixing both.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a clean, precise and beginner-friendly tufting fabric, monks cloth is the superior choice. Its tight weave, softness and ease of use make it the go-to material for most tufting projects. On the other hand, jute cloth offers affordability and rugged durability, especially suitable for rustic rugs or experienced tufters who prefer a rougher style.
Both fabrics have their place in the tufting world. The best choice depends on your budget, style preference, and project goals. Beginners often find success with monks cloth, while seasoned tufters may enjoy the challenge of jute. In the end, there’s no wrong answer — only the fabric that suits your tufting journey best.