tufting
TUF-ting
/ˈtʌftɪŋ/
A method of upholstery where buttons or stitches are pulled tightly through fabric to create a patterned, cushioned surface.
Refers specifically to the classic diamond or square patterns created by securing the fabric at regular intervals, often finished with buttons.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Old French 'toffe', referring to a cluster of fibers. In upholstery, tufting was developed as a functional technique to keep the internal stuffing (historically horsehair or wool) from shifting around inside the furniture.
Word relationships
- quilting: Quilting involves stitching layers together along lines, while tufting pulls the fabric down at specific points using buttons or ties.
Commonly confused with
- padding: Padding is the soft material inside, while tufting is the structural technique used to secure and shape that padding.
Word family
- tuft (noun): A bunch of threads, grass, or hair held together at the base.
- tufted (adjective): Having or decorated with tufts or tufting.
Collocations
- button tufting
- diamond tufting
- deep tufting
Example sentences
- "The headboard was decorated with elegant diamond-patterned tufting, which added depth and texture to the bedroom." A description of a bedroom headboard.
Memory hook
Buttons are pulled so 'tough' (tuft) into the cushion that they create deep dimples. Tufting: The button-dimpled pattern.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple flat upholstery or loose cushions.
Fun facts
- Before modern foam was invented, tufting was the only way to ensure a sofa didn't end up with all its stuffing lumped on one side after a few weeks of use.
Related words
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