Just a couple of weeks ago, my cousin introduced me to the art of tufting, and I was absolutely clueless as to what it was. To me, it sounded like a form of martial arts, and if you’re clueless like I was, let me help explain.
Not exactly a newfound technique, tufting is a type of textile manufacturing where they insert a thread on a primary base. This ancient art has long been practised for making warm garments like scarves and mittens, tote bags, rugs, pillow covers, etc.
If this sounds interesting to you and you’re a Klang Valley or Penang resident, here are some places to get you started.
Klang Valley
1. Toui Studio, Selangor
Located in Kota Damansara, Toui Studio teaches its students the basics of tufting, and before you know it, you’ve made things like pet rugs, coasters, or abstract art pieces. If you want to drag your mates with you, know that there are group workshops available at RM199 per pax.
It can accommodate up to 10 people and lasts four hours, which will fly by because of all the fun you’ll have. To stay in the loop of their promotional prices, follow them on Instagram.
Address: R-2-23, Emporis, Persiaran Surian, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6011 6117 9691
2. Tuft Second Studio, Selangor
Nurture your most creative side at Tuft Second, located in SS2, Petaling Jaya, and create some memorable experiences on your own or with loved ones. The slots here are limited and vary each month, so be sure to get in touch in advance should you plan on making a booking. Tuft Second also hosts private and team-building events!
Address: C-05-3A, 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6017 476 0902
3. Tuft Space, Selangor
Located in the spacious neighbourhood of Eco Ardence in Shah Alam, Tuft Space is not just a tufting studio but also a great place to buy tuft products like cute coasters and rugs, to name a few. There are three packages to choose from depending on your budget, fabric and frame sizes, and how long you want to spend tufting. For more information, check out their website.
Address: Eco Ardence, No 46-1, Jalan Eco Ardence C U12/36C, Eco Ardence, Seksyen U12, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor
Contact: +6010 278 2378
4. Dodome Setapak, Kuala Lumpur
For some, tufting can be considered a hobby that’s pretty heavy on the wallet, and if you live in Kuala Lumpur, it’s possible to explore tufting without breaking the bank. Where, you ask? Check out Dodome in Setapak! For RM69, you can tuft on a 40cm x 40cm canvas, and if you want to commit long-term, it’s probably best to opt-in to one of their packages as it’ll end up being cheaper per session.
Address: No 83A-1, Platinum Walk, 2 Jalan Langkawi, Setapak, 53100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6011 5698 9651
5. Root Studio, Putrajaya
This indoor plant shop turned crochet and tufting studio is your next one-stop shop for all things arts and crafts. Located in Putrajaya, Root Studio is a favourite amongst those living in the neighbourhood and those passionate about crocheting and tufting.
Tufting workshop pricing begins at RM160 for a 45cm x 45cm canvas, and information on their crochet sessions can be found on their website! Go forth and create!
Address: K-GF-06, Block K, Connection Commercial Persiaran IRC 3 IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya
Contact: +6012 311 6998
Penang
6. JusTuft, Penang
Life is ‘JustTuft’ sometimes. But with arts and crafts, I believe it can be made a little brighter and easier. Plus, art lets you explore your creative side, so why not give it a go? Penangites need to put JustTuft on their tufting list as this studio offers various ways to explore this craftsmanship.
Choose from tote bags, art pieces, t-shirts, mirror covers, and rugs. You name it, and they’ve got it! They can accommodate most requests if you are not up for tufting but want to get something for yourself or your loved ones.
Address: 32 Jalan Icon City, Icon City, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Penang
Contact: +6010 263 7218
7. JollyTuft, Penang
Another tufting studio worth checking out in Penang is JollyTuft. Like most studios, they provide guidance on the tufting craft and how to operate the tufting gun safely and correctly. If you’re a first-timer here, you will be entitled to a discount of 10%, providing that you book a Friday or Saturday night session.
Address: 17 Cannon Street, 10200 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6017 551 3210
8. OneTuft, Penang
Calling all Penang tufting artists! Don’t miss out on this studio located in Bukit Mertajam. Truly a premium experience, create one-of-a-kind pieces as they serve you complimentary drinks. Tufting is hard work, so there will be some snacks and desserts to keep you energised!
Address: 46, 1st Floor, Jalan Arumugam Pillai, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Penang
Contact: +6017 550 8577
