A professional who mounts backing material (loosely woven fabric or burlap) on frame to facilitate tufting. Responsibilities include:

• Hooks specified backing over frame spikes and clamps metal side bars onto frame to secure material in position for tufting.
• Moves backing on frame periodically to facilitate completion of tufting process.
• Measures and marks carpet dimensions on backing, using tape measure and chalk-line reel.
• May stencil designs on sample backing, using brush and lamp black solution.