TikTok can credit its popularity to the intricate choreographed dance videos that crowded screens in 2019. What kept its acclaim, however, were the countless videos of new makeup trends, meal recipes, and art projects that followed. Now, the tufting trend has taken over the app, and a new Northern Virginia store has all the materials to master it.
Tufting is a type of textile weaving where yarn is fed into a backing fabric to create a pattern. While tufting can create a variety of products, it is most notable for its use in creating rugs. Tuft Tuft, located in the Tysons Corner Center, is a tufting workshop space for amateurs and professionals alike to create their own artwork. Jiaya Terakawa, owner of Tuft Tuft, says she created her store so people could have freedom to use their imagination.
“Tuft Tuft was born out of my passion for DIY,” Terakawa says.
A small business with seven employees, Tuft Tuft opened in December 2022. Customers have a number of colors and yarn sizes from which to choose for their rugs.
“You can make anything from large rugs that can be put in bedrooms to something as small as a coaster or mirror frame to put up anywhere in your house,” Terakawa says.
How long will it take to create a rug? The time depends on the person. For smaller frames, it takes about one to two hours, while larger pieces can take up to four hours. You need to book a workshop to ensure your spot. The $20 cost for the workshop is in addition to materials. A mini rug will cost $58. Plus $10 for trimming. Children under 13 need to be accompanied by an adult.
While tufting is the main passion of Terakawa, the store also offers workshops where customers can paint acrylic bears. Customers are given an acrylic bear and then choose a wide array of colors to paint or pour over it.
Like the rugs, appointments are needed for the acrylic painting. You can book a slot for $15. Cost for the bear depends on its size.
But whether it be tufting an intricate rug or painting a bear keychain, Terakawa finds joy in every customer’s experience.
“I love when customers come in and are smiling,” she said. “Seeing their faces and excitement from what they made from their imagination is what makes this so worth it.”
Tuft Tuft is located on the second floor of Tysons Corner Center across from Ash Salon & Spa and near Urban Outfitters.
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