Want to punch? Literally, but in a creative, crafty way that is trending! Well, then, punch needle art awaits! It's easy to learn, has great textures and can be used in various ways. However, when you sit down with your shiny new punch needle set, stare lovingly at your fabric and you’ll wonder, “Wait… which side do I punch into?” If you are having this thought, you’re not alone. You won’t get punched for choosing the “wrong” side, but picking the right side of your fabric can make a real difference in your finished punch needle art. Let’s clear up the confusion and help you decide with this blog.
First Things First: What is Punch Needle Art?
Punch needle art involves punching loops of yarn or thread through fabric to create textured designs. From wall hangings, cushions, rugs, coasters and adornments, the textures work in beautiful ways. For your masterpiece to turn out beautifully, the type of fabric you choose and how you use it matter a lot. Refer to our previous blog on which fabric is the best for your punch needle. The side of the foundation fabric you punch into is another factor that changes the beauty and the effect of the finished project.
Monk’s Cloth for Punch Needle Projects
When it comes to punch needle fabric, Monk’s Cloth is the gold standard. Made of 100% cotton and specially woven with a double strand of cotton, the foundation fabric offers durability and flexibility that punch needle lovers swear by. A woven white line every five centimeters in the fabric helps you position your design. The weave is just right, not too tight, not too loose, works with 3mm, 4mm and 5mm sizes, which makes it perfect for a wide range of projects. The fabric looks and feels the same from both sides, so the side depends on which side you want to display.
Duck Fabric
Best described as the perfect material for finer textured punch needle work, Duck fabric is paired with a 2mm punch needle size and thinner yarn or thread. Made from 100% cotton with a tight weave, the foundation fabric is a neutral color flecked with tiny seed-like specks. Strong and durable, it is the choice for a cleaner, flatter finish with less texture than looped styles.
Front vs. Back – Which Side Should You Punch?
Now that you’ve got the foundation fabric ready, your yarn ready to roll, and then…the hesitation. Do you punch from the front or the back?
Here’s your answer: Both can be correct, depending on your artistic goal. Do you want textures or details?
Punching from the Back (Most Common)
The go-to method for most punch needle artists is to punch from the back side, which means the loops form on the front side, the part that will eventually be on display. The result is a lush, looped texture ideal for wall hangings or pillow covers.
Punching from the Front (For a Different Look)
This might feel rebellious, but some artists prefer to punch from the front. In this case, the loops form on the back side, and the front gets a flatter, almost embroidered finish, So, why punch from the front? First, to work with finer yarns and create detail. Secondly, for cleaner, stitched look rather than loops. And finally, if you love experimenting with texture and visual depth in your work.
While it’s less common, punching from the front opens up creative possibilities and allows for a different aesthetic. Especially when working with variegated yarns, this technique gives you more control over color placement.
So… Which Side Should You Punch?
Ask yourself:
Do I want loops on the front for a plush, textured effect? → Punch from the back.
Do I want a smooth, embroidered look with flatter stitches? → Punch from the front.
Whichever side you choose, there’s no “wrong” answer, just different paths to enjoy punching.
Punch needle embroidery is about relaxation, creativity, and joy. And with the right foundation fabric—be it Monk’s Cloth or Duck Fabric—you’re already halfway there. Whatever project, foundation fabric or side you choose, refer to our guide on mastering punch needle techniques - tips and tricks.
Ready to punch like a pro? KnitPro has got you covered with everything you need to explore punch needle art. Explore punch needle sets- Vibrant and Earthy kits with a punch needle tool, one ergonomic wood handle that works with four needle sizes (2mm, 3mm, 4mm and 5mm), threaders, attachments and an instructional booklet. While the Vibrant Kit offers a colorful Symfonie wood handle, Earthy offers a warm shade of brown packed in a blue denim fabric case in rainbow colors and a black fabric case. The pre-stretched frames come in square and rectangular shapes that are perfect for displaying wall art and other projects.
