Rugged Perspective Rug Tufting

You may have seen rug tufting classes in other cities pop-up on your TikTok FYP, and if you were like me, you were immediately jealous and wanting to have something like that here in Orlando.

Thanks to local Arelys Rodriguez, a few months ago Rugged Perspective started popping up in a small space in Altamonte hosting rug tufting workshops. Rug tufting became one of the many hobbies she picked up during the pandemic lockdown in 2020.

The hobby became more of a side hustle, and now Arelys has opened up a dedicated workshop space downtown in the Milk District!

HOW TO BOOK:

Go to her website and book your spot online. You can also join a themed workshop like her Bad Bunny workshops. 

WHAT'S THE PRICE:

Depending on the workshop you book, rates range from $90 - $150. The price varies because some classes come with different sizes that are offered. Everything is supplied to you. Note that you will not leave the workshop with your rug on the same day. Arelys finishes it for you by putting on the backing and getting you your final product quickly thereafter.

IS IT HARD?

I didn't find it difficult once I got the hang of it. The tufting gun, however, isn't the lightest object, and you are holding it for a few hours, give or take, and you need to lean and press into your canvas, so it's a body workout but nothing overly strenuous. The easier your design, the easier it will be on you. You also get a couple of practice runs of lines on a canvas.

WHAT ARE THE VIBES? CAN I GO ALONE?

The vibes are fun, easygoing, and chill. Arelys is a great instructor; she's personable and helpful without being intimidating. She has a great playlist going; everyone does their thing, chats, and admires everyone else's work when they need a break. I was supposed to go with a friend, but I had to go alone at the last minute, and I felt perfectly comfortable being there solo. Feel free to go as a solitary activity.

WHAT DESIGNS CAN YOU MAKE?

It's really up to you to create anything you'd like. You can look online for inspiration, but anything that would look good in the you choose is fair game. Everything is provided to you, and Arelys creates an outline based on the design you send her beforehand so you have a pattern to follow. She is watching the whole time to make sure you’re doing ok and will even lend a helping hand if there is an area you are worried about doing yourself.

Rugged Perspective is located at 2428 E Robinson Orlando, FL 32803 and you can follow her on Instagram at @ruggedperspective_orl.