Punch needle for yarn crafts can feel a bit confusing when you’re just starting out. Most punch needles look similar – at first. But once you do a little online research, the differences become more apparent: Fixed vs adjustable. Wood vs plastic. And even threading methods vary. 

In today’s post, I’m simplifying the basic types of punch needles so you can find the right one for you. And if you want to see everything in action, there’s also a video included where I do a quick overview of the common punch needles, the differences, and how to use them. 

Okay, let’s dive in!

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Punch Needle for Yarn Crafts: Fixed vs Adjustable

The biggest distinction comes down to two types of punch needles:

• Fixed
• Adjustable

Each works differently, especially when it comes to loop height, threading, and flexibility.

In the following beginner guide, I’ll be breaking it down simply using examples from my own stash of punch needles.

To see me break things down in real time, watch my VIDEO TUTORIAL BELOW, or – if you prefer – scroll past the video to skim through the essentials below.

 

 

 

Fixed Punch Needles (Oxford brand)

“Fixed” needles have one set loop height – meaning, the needle itself is rigid and cannot be adjusted. The ‘gold standard’ in fixed punch needles is the Oxford Punch Needle. Oxford carries 2 sizes: “Regular” and “Fine.”

• Regular punch needles are compatible with chunky or bulky yarns. Ideally, they work well with a weight 5 yarn, but you can go up or down a size, depending on the density of the yarn.
• Fine punch needles are compatible with finer yarns. Weight 4 is ideal, but you may be able to go down or up a size, depending on yarn density.

(For more about understanding yarn sizes and labels, see my Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Yarn Labels).

Althought Oxford needles aren’t adjustable, they ARE available in different heights within the Regular and Fine line of needles. In other words, if you want to play around with loop heights using, say, the “Regular” size needle (for bulky, chunky yarn), you would have to purchase another Regular size punch needle that comes in a different needle height. (Check out Oxford’s size guide here for more). 

Regardless of the type you choose, here’s a quick run-down of their key features.

PROS: Oxford Punch Needle (Regular & Fine)

• Fixed loop height = consistent loops
• Easiest threading method (no threader required; load yarn directly into needle)
• Ergonomic wooden handle – comfortable grip for long sessions

CONS: Oxford Punch Needle (Regular & Fine)

• Higher cost
• Fixed loop height; must purchase a separate needle for each loop height needed

 

Adjustable Punch Needles (Lavor, Rico, Mini)

Adjustable needles allow you to change loop height within one tool, making them more versatile. That said, they do require a threader (to load your yarn into the needle) and, therefore, a bit more setup.

There are a LOT of adjustable varieties out there – and this is where it can feel a bit overwhelming. So here are just a few examples I personally own and use.

 

Lavor (ergonomic) Punch Needle (5.5mm & 4mm)

Much like the Oxford punch needle line, Lavor’s ergonomic punch needles come in 2 sizes: 5.5 mm & 4mm. The 5.5 mm is for bulky/chunky weight yarns (weight 5 is ideal), while the 4mm is great for finer yarn (weight 4 is ideal).

Here are their key features.

PROS: Lavor (ergonomic) Punch Needles

• Adjustable loop height (7 adjustable heights – extremely versatile)
• Ergonomic handle with comfortable grip for long sessions
• Smooth punching experience
• Mid-range price point (lower cost than an Oxford needle)

CONS: Lavor (ergonomic) Punch Needles

• Slight learning curve for making adjustments
• Need to use threader to load yarn into needle (Lavor comes with one)
• Recycled plastic – not as durable as Oxford’s wooden handle

 

Rico Adjustable Punch Needle (5mm/19cm)

Like the Lavor, the Rico brand is adjustable. It is a more affordable option and may be something to consider as a punch needle hobbyist – best for occasional or light use. The 5mm is perfect for bulky/chunky weight yarn. (It also comes in a “fine” size – or 13cm for embroidery floss as well as finer yarn)

Here are the key features of Rico (5mm) (and similar punch needles like it):

PROS: Rico Adjustable Punch Needle (5mm)

• Lightweight, plastic design
• Adjustable (4 loop heights)
• Beginner friendly

CONS: Rico Adjustable Punch Needle (5mm)

• Lower durability (lightweight plastic and spring mechanism)
• Less stable control due to longer tool design
• Slight resistance when punching through fabric
• Limited to 4 loop height options

 

Mini Wooden Adjustable Punch Needle (5mm, unbranded)

Several manufacturers make a similar mini adjustable punch like this one. It pops up on different sites on Etsy and elsewhere and is also worth considering. Like the Oxford Regular, Lavor 5.5mm, and Rico 5mm, this mini punch is approx. 5mm and best for bulky/chunky yarns.

Here are its key features.

PROS: Mini Punch Needle

• Compact and portable
• Adjustable loop height (6 height settings)
• Wooden handel – durable
• Low cost

CONS: Mini Punch Needle

• Requires more control (finger-held grip)
• Requires a threader to load yarn into needle
• Less comfortable for long sessions
• Slight resistance when punching through fabric

 

*Note: A similar mini punch needle manufactured by Lavor – so you know you’ll get a better quality product – can be found here (for chunky/bulky yarn), here (various yarn thicknesses) and here (various yarn thicknesses). I have not used these personally, but Lavor is a well-respected punch needle brand.

 

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Which Punch Needle Should You Choose?

Choose a fixed needle, like Oxford, if you want simplicity, loop consistency, and a more premium “lifetime” tool. Both hobbyists and professionals regard the Oxford as the “gold standard.” For rug-making, this is THE tool, but is also great for a wide range of art and craft projects.

Choose an adjustable needle, if you want a flexible tool that has a lower upfront cost that gives you some room to experiment with loop heights and designs. These are great for a wide range of art and craft projects.

When it comes to specific punch needles, it all depends on your budget and craft projects. It is totally subjective, but here are my thoughts about it:

• Beginner on a budget: Rico or mini (or try the Lavor mini)
• Best balance (price and versatility): Lavor (ergonomic)
• Long-term investment: Oxford

 

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Final Thoughts

There’s really no “best” punch needle out there. It all depends on how you like to work and what your budget is right now. 

If you want to see these tools in action – including threading and stitching – check out the VIDEO ABOVE where I demonstrate each needle and go over the pros and cons.

Happy punching 🙂