A Guide to Tufting guns: Cut Pile vs Loop Pile and Pile Height

Not sure which tufting gun to choose? Whether you're making your first rug or experimenting with different textures, understanding the different types of tufting guns will help you find the right machine for your project.

The two main differences between tufting guns are:

• Pile height: How long or fluffy your rug's surface will be.
• Cut pile vs loop pile: Whether the yarn is cut or left in loops.

Other factors worth considering include tufting speed, machine weight, ease of use and build quality.

Tufting Gun Pile Height: How High Can You Go?

Pile height determines how thick, fluffy or textured your finished rug will look and feel.

Standard electric tufting guns typically produce pile heights of around 5–21 mm, making them ideal for rugs, wall hangings and other textile projects.

Want a more dramatic, shaggy finish? High-pile electric tufting guns can create much longer piles, including 20–30 mm and 35–45 mm options. For even taller piles, pneumatic tufting guns can reach heights of up to 60 mm, although they require an air compressor.

Cut Pile vs Loop Pile Tufting Guns

One of the most important choices when buying a tufting gun is deciding between cut pile and loop pile. Both techniques create a different texture and finish.

Cut Pile Tufting Guns

A cut pile tufting gun uses built-in scissors to cut the yarn as it passes through the backing fabric. This creates a soft, fluffy surface that can be trimmed and carved for a smooth, detailed finish.

Cut pile is a popular choice for beginners and works especially well for decorative rugs, colorful designs and wall art.

Loop Pile Tufting Guns

A loop pile tufting gun leaves the yarn in continuous loops instead of cutting it. The result is a more structured, textured surface with a distinctive handmade appearance.

Loop pile is ideal for creating patterns with visible texture and a more defined surface. If you want to turn the loops into cut pile, you'll need to cut them separately.

Cut and Loop Tufting Guns

Can't decide between the two? A cut and loop tufting gun offers both techniques in one machine.

Some cut-and-loop models let you change the cutting setup to switch techniques. Follow the manual for your exact model. If you prefer to avoid mechanical adjustments, choose separate machines for cut pile and loop pile.

Already have a tufting gun?

For yarn slipping out, uneven stitches or cloth tearing, use our tufting troubleshooting guide to check your setup before adjusting or replacing your machine.