For example, you might design a headboard to be in a diamond pattern or a bench that has a biscuit pattern on it.
Give your project a thick layer of padding so that the tufts can actually be created. For example, 4 in (10 cm) of foam will create deeper tufts than 2 in (5. 1 cm) will. Batting, which is soft insulation for your project, is useful if you’re covering a hard surface like plywood so the wood doesn’t go through the fabric.
Consider planning this out on paper so you can easily erase pencil marks if you make a mistake or rearrange the tufts.
If you’re putting buttons on both sides of your fabric, it’s important that they’re spaced out the same way on both sides for perfect tufts.
It’s a good idea to buy extra supplies just in case you mess up or need an extra one.
For example, you might cover a headboard in bright pink fabric and then use buttons that look like diamonds for a sparkly look.
Purchase a button kit to quickly and easily cover your buttons, if you’d like. Tufting twine is strong enough to be pulled through the fabric and can be found at a local craft or home improvement store. This is a perfect way to add tufts to things like pillows where you can tuft both sides.
For example, a 10 in (25 cm) tufting needle will likely work for most projects.
Be careful as you pull the needle through so that you don’t poke yourself.
Create a slip knot by forming a large loop with the twine using your fingers and grabbing the twine through the loop before pulling it tightly. Once you do this with the rest of your buttons, it’ll be easy to make sure they’re all evenly tightened with the slip knot.
Do this with the rest of the buttons once they’re all attached.
Only use nails or screws to form tufts if your project is one-sided and has a stable base that they can attach to. Make sure the washers, screws, and nails are small enough to fit under your button so they’re not visible. You might use screws for a super quick and easy tufting job.
If you’re using a hammer, be careful that you don’t hit your fingers when you’re holding the nail in place.
If your button has a loop on the back for thread, remove this with pliers before adding the glue. Avoid adding so much glue that it seeps out from under the button when it’s pressed down. Hold the button in place for a few seconds so it has time to dry.
