An alternative to the multilayered preforming is to use structures reinforced through-the-thickness in order to manufacture thicker and more complex pieces. Stitching technology is developed to bind dry reinforcements together or to strengthen composites in thickness performance by inserting structural yarns. Tufting process represents the simplest one-sided sewing technology and it is specifically designed for dry preform/liquid composite molding process route. Currently, the tufting technology is getting more and more interest due to its simplest and efficient process where it involves the insertion of binder threads via a single needle through the fabric. This technique of reinforcement through-the-thickness requires only one access to the preform which makes it suitable for three-dimensional structures and complex shaped textile composites. This paper aims to improve the understanding of the mechanical performance of tufted structures. An experimental study was developed, which included tensile and bending behaviours of tufted and un-tufted preforms, in order to evaluate the effect of tufting on the mechanical performance of dry preforms. The influence of the process parameters (tufting density, loop length, tufting yarns${\ldots}$) on the mechanical performance ofthe final structure is also highlighted.