Introduction to Rug Tufting

Instructor: Nick Colabella

Dates: Sundays, May 3 & 10, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Ages: 15+

Members: $171

Non-Members: $190

(Registration deadline: April 28)

Description:

This comprehensive workshop will guide participants through the entire process of creating their own tufted rug, from initial design to the final finishing touches. You'll begin by sketching out a custom rug design, then learn the fundamentals of rug tufting, including how to properly use a tufting gun, select yarns, and work on fabric to create the desired texture and pattern. By the end of the workshop, each participant will leave with a completed rug and the skills to continue creating tufted projects on their own. Open to all levels of experience, this workshop is suitable for beginners and those looking to expand their fiber art skills.

Open Studio Time:

Upon approval from the instructor, workshop participants will be granted access to the lab throughout the duration of the workshop. Aside from scheduled workshop hours, the lab is available for independent use Tuesday – Sunday from 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM.

Materials:

Provided by participants (included links to purchase are suggested options, not required):

For Designs:

• Sketch paper and pencils (for initial designs)
  • Designs may also be transferred using a digital image and projector, or using a tracing light box.
• Markers or fabric pens (for transferring designs onto the fabric)

For Tufting Technique:

• Tufting gun/tool Link to purchase
• Monk's cloth Link to purchase
• Yarn, medium weight #4, of your choice (a variety of donated yarns are available to use at no cost!)
• Scissors (for trimming yarn and fabric)

Instructor Bio:

Nick Colabella is a seasoned graphic designer and digital marketer with extensive experience working in both museum and distillery settings. Holding a bachelor’s degree in arts management with a minor in Design from MCLA in North Adams, MA, Nick combines a strong academic foundation with a passion for hands-on creativity. Bringing a unique blend of digital and traditional art skills to the classroom, Nick creates an engaging learning environment where students can transform their design concepts into real-world screen-printed works.

Instructor's Website: https://colabella.myportfolio.com

All workshops are held at the Five Points Arts Center, 855 University Drive

Workshops may be cancelled due to low enrollment if a minimum number of participants are not met. Registrants will be notified in advance and a refund or credit will be arranged (see workshop polices below for details).

Workshop Policies: Please review the terms of our workshop policies here