Punch needle workshop in Madrid: creativity and personalized tote bags

A punch needle workshop in a light-filled Haussmannian apartment.

Choosing an inspiring space is key to making a workshop a unique experience. That's why at Moomzart we made sure that every detail was up to par. Our punch needle workshop in Madrid took place in a Haussmannian apartment with high ceilings, elegant moldings and large windows that flooded the room with natural light. A perfect setting, with some art pieces, to immerse ourselves in this textile technique and enjoy the creative process.

We gathered 14 punch needle enthusiasts, eager to learn and share a different afternoon. The aim of the workshop was to bring to life the design “L'Amour”, our pre-printed heart on fabric, which at the end of the day would become a pocket for the “Punch Like a Woman” tote bag… although some decided to keep their punchy without applying it so they could enjoy it at home.

For 4 hours, we explored the technique, talked about materials and tools, and above all, enjoyed the magic of relief embroidery, accompanied at all times by the Moomzart playlist, which enveloped us in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere and, why not say it: peculiar.

Discovering the tools: punch needle needles.

Before we started, we gave an introduction to the different punch needle needles available on the market. We explained the differences between adjustable models, manual ones, and of course the iconic Oxford needle, the favorite of those seeking precision and comfort. Knowing its particularities helped to understand why a good tool makes all the difference in the punching experience. So much so that, at the end of the workshop, several students decided to order their complete kit to continue practicing at home.

Let's get to work: punching the heart “L'Amour”.

With the theory clear and the fabrics stretched tight on the frames, it's time for action. The first stitches always generate nerves, but once you find the rhythm, punch needle becomes hypnotic.

The design was the same for everyone, but each one gave it her own personal touch. Some played with the combination of flat stitch and loops, others opted for a more compact and uniform texture. Within minutes, the entire group entered a state of total concentration, in which the only thing that could be heard was the sound of the needles piercing the fabric and the expressions of surprise as they saw how the design came to life.

Each student worked at her own pace, with moments of doubt and small mistakes, but with the final satisfaction of seeing that each stitch was better than the last.

From frame to tote bag: applying punchy without sewing.

Once the punchies were finished, the final phase arrived: placing them on the “Punch Like a Woman” tote bag. But instead of sewing them on, we used double-sided heat-adhesive strips, a quick and durable solution that allows you to attach the punchy to the fabric in just a few seconds with the heat of an iron.

Each tote bag was transformed into a unique and personalized piece, with a raised embroidered pocket made entirely by hand.

Two students preferred to keep their punchy as is, without applying it to the bag, to use it as a decorative mat at home. And that's the beauty of punch needle: each piece can be adapted to whatever inspires you the most.

A workshop to repeat.

The best thing about this punch needle workshop in Madrid was not only learning the technique, but sharing the experience in an environment that inspired creativity. Between needles, wool and lots of conversations, we discovered how relaxing and rewarding it is to create with our hands, without screens in between.