Tag: is needle felting hard

Needle Felting Made Easy For All – Free Your Creative Potential!

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IS NEEDLE FELTING TOO HARD FOR ME?

Hey there, fellow needle felting enthusiasts! Today, I want to chat about something that I’m sure many of you have wondered about: whether you need to be an artistic genius to rock at needle felting. Let me tell you right off the bat: No, you absolutely don’t! So grab a cup of your favorite beverage, get cozy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of needle felting.

Hands showing how to needle felt colourful felt balls and bumble bees
An example of a cute white needle felted sheep with a head of curls. It is being held in some ones hands wearing a pretty pink dress.
Needle felted hare held in the palm of hands

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room – artistic talent…

A stick man with a pencil looking confused. There is a question mark because he doesn't know how to draw.

You might be thinking, “I can’t even draw a stick figure properly, how can I possibly create something beautiful with needle felting?”

Well, let me reassure you that needle felting is not just for the ‘Picassos’ and ‘Van Goghs’ of the world. In fact, it’s the enthusiasm that truly counts! When I started needle felting, I was convinced that my creations would look like a misshapen lump of wool. But you know what? I couldn’t have been more wrong! Sure, my first few attempts might have been a bit wonky, but that’s all part of the journey. Embrace the wonkiness and enthusiasm and passion will carry you through the learning curve, trust me.

Example of a cute needle felted woodland hare with big eyes

NOBODY EVER STARTS AS AN EXPERT

Needle Felting Made Easy For All – Free Your Creative Potential!

Now, let’s talk about that pesky little notion of creating a masterpiece right from the get-go. Spoiler alert: It’s a myth! Expecting your very first project to be a needle-felted Mona Lisa will only set you up for disappointment and a dent in your confidence. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are masterpieces. Start with the basics, and gradually build up your skills. Before you know it, you’ll be crafting adorable critters and charming creations like a pro. Remember, this journey is all about having fun and discovering your unique style.

BEGINNERS START HERE

A felting mat, felting needle, wool and a sheep. Text says, 'Beginners start here@.

So, start on chapter 1, not someone else’s chapter 5. It’s easy to get inspired by the incredible needle-felted wonders you see online, and while they can be a fantastic source of motivation, don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle or end. They have been honing their skills for quite some time, and you’ll get there too with a bit of practice and dedication. As you embark on this needle-felting adventure, let me share a little secret with you: mastering the basics won’t take you long at all.

Ariel shot of a person creating a bright orange needle felted pumpkin.

Once you get the hang of the technique, it’s like riding a bike – you won’t forget it. Plus, the internet is a treasure trove of tutorials and guides to help you along the way. So, give yourself some grace, and remember that you are allowed to make mistakes. It’s how we learn and grow!

TAKE IT EASY ON YOURSELF

I encourage you to approach your early projects with an open mind and heart and learn to needle felt with confidence. Embrace imperfections, celebrate the progress you make, and learn from every little bump in the road. Your enthusiasm will be the fuel that keeps you going and keeps your passion for needle felting alive. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own style. While looking at the works of experienced needle felters can be inspiring, always remember that your creations are an expression of yourself. Feel free to add your own twists, quirks, and personality to your projects. That’s what makes them special and unique.

NEEDLE FELTING PATTERNS ARE A GREAT WAY TO GET STARTED!

Needle felting patterns offer a great introduction to the world of needle felting, providing all the necessary tools, step-by-step instructions, and a platform for your creative expression. When it comes to needle felting kits, the price can vary widely, and while there are exceptions, in general, you tend to get what you pay for.

Autumn wreath needle felting kit. The willow wreath is covered in handmade pumpkins and acorns. There is a cup of tea and biscuits in the background.

WHY SPEND MORE ON A NEEDLE FELTING KIT?

It’s true, you can buy a needle felting kit for just a few pounds, or dollars, but a knowledgeable needle felting business goes beyond just selling products; it becomes a hub of creative inspiration and assistance, with real people. Such a business recognises that needle felting is not only a craft but an art form that thrives on innovation and personal expression. By offering comprehensive creative support, including expert advice, tutorials, and a diverse range of high-quality materials, they empower both beginners and experienced crafters to explore their creativity with confidence.

Of course, there are exceptions, and sometimes you might find a reasonably priced kit that offers excellent value for its cost. However, investing a bit more in a high-quality needle felting kit can ultimately lead to a more enjoyable crafting experience, better results, and improved skills in the long run.

Beach Scene Needle Felting Pattern
Lots of Christmas needle felted characters including, snowmen, gnomes, reindeer, penguins, and a robin
Christmas Felting Patterns

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

As you delve into this captivating craft, you’ll discover the therapeutic benefits, tap into your inner creativity. So, why wait? Grab a needle felting pattern (plus the wool and needles that you bought but never used), let your imagination soar, unlock the joys of needle felting and witness the creative magic unfold in your hands!

A list showing the most popular felting needles and their uses.

WHAT FELTING NEEDLES SHOULD I USE?

Here’s a great beginners guide to felting needles.

Most importantly, don’t let the fear of lacking artistic talent hold you back from needle felting. Enthusiasm is the most vital “skill” to embark on this creative journey. Start with the basics, be patient with yourself, and avoid comparing your beginning to others’ advanced works. Embrace the learning process, have fun, and let your unique style shine through. With practice and passion, you’ll soon be crafting adorable woolen wonders that bring joy to your heart and a smile to your face. Happy felting!

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Picture Needle Felting Patterns
Needle felted cactus in teracotta pots
Cactus Needle Pattern
image shows a pretty needle felted picture of an abstract cornish costal scene. It hasbrightly coloured houses along the harbour wall. A bobbing boat and seagulls. Text reads: easy needle felted picture with Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts

How To Needle Felt A Picture – Everything You Need To know!

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Learn how to needle felt a picture and create your own stunning 2D needle felted Cornish seascape, bursting with colour and character. Video tutorial links are at the bottom of this post and this beautiful project is suitable for beginners, and experienced needle felters, taking around eight hours to complete. I have carefully selected all the materials, wool, and fibres to give you the best possible outcome for your project, so if you are working from my Needle Felting Kit everything you need is already there. That also includes to linen, printed design and carbon paper to trace it onto your fabric, ready to start needle felting.

VIDEO TUTORIALS ARE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE POST

image shows a pretty needle felted picture of an abstract cornish costal scene. It hasbrightly coloured houses along the harbour wall. A bobbing boat and seagulls.

If you haven’t tried needle felted pictures before, I know you are going to love this design. It was a joy to create and the bold colours, and design, really sing. Adding the cheeky three dimensional Seagulls really brings it to life, as do the rolling waves with the gorgeous silk strands. The result is a mix of Cornish impressionism meets Balamory, and my love of the sea.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED/CONTENTS

If you are working from the kit, everything you need is in your box. If you are working from the pattern, and your own supplies, you will need:

  • Approximately 40g of mixed wool colours. I have used approximately 18 different colours: a mix of carded wool, wool tops, silk blends, and silk throwsters waste.
  • Felting needle: size 38 star works best
  • A4 size linen, calico or similar. A close weave works best in a light colour.
  • Felting mat

ARE YOU NEW TO NEEDLE FELTING?

The complete kit is available on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website and in my Etsy shop

OPTIONAL

  • Multi needle tools will speed up the process
  • Carbon paper for tracing the design but you can copy directly onto the fabric
  • Frame, driftwood, or similar to display. It can also be mounted onto card using double sided tape
image shows linen, carbon paper and a pre-printed picture that will be used to create the needle felted picture.

HOW TO NEEDLE FELT: THE BASICS

Caution: This activity is for adults and older children – 12 years and older – and then only with strict adult guidance and supervision due to the very sharp needles. Do not allow children to attempt this project alone!

HOW TO USE YOUR FELTING NEEDLE?

Felt is made using the barbed needles and repeatedly and by carefully stabbing into the wool fleece. This will tangle the fibres together until the wool becomes firm, and, following the instructions, create your own needle felted project.

Before you start you project it is important to know a few basics about needle felting but equally important is that this is YOUR creation. You may decide to make changes. BRILLIANT! Make it your own. If you make a mistake, then remove it by gently tugging with a standard dress pin and try again. Most importantly, be patient and enjoy this gorgeous project. Take your time and remember “the devil is in the detail” so tempting though it is, don’t rush when you are getting near the end of your project. Sit back and decide on your finishing touches. Make it simple, quirky, or as detailed as you like…

CLICK HERE FOR MY FELTING NEEDLE GUIDE

image shows a felting needle multi tool

SAFETY AND TECHNIQUE

You need to take extra precautions to watch your fingers because, as you hold and turn your project, there is a greater chance of poking through the wool right into your finger; use finger guards if this helps.

Use the foam pad wherever possible and remember to always poke your needle in a straight line, no matter the angle, so as not to break your needle.

The finished project will be unique to you so feel free to use your imagination. Be patient as these lovely creations deserve the time they take to make, and you will quickly get used to the needle felting process. Once you have finished this project there will be no stopping you!

Upon completion sit back, admire, and tell your friends and family “I did that!”

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THESE PROJECTS ARE COLLECTABLES, NOT TOYS! KEEP THEM AWAY FROM PETS AND SMALL CHILDREN!

TOP TIPS

1 You can always add more wool but not take it away once felted. Start with less wool than you need and build up your project slowly.

2 Patience is a virtue so take your time.

3 Feel free to add your own details and use your own artistic license for the finishing touches.

4 ENJOY! If this is your first needle felting project allow yourself to be a beginner and build your creative confidence. It’s not a sprint to the finish and you are going to learn some fabulous new skills. Hopefully, this will be just the start of your needle felting journey.

5 VIDEO TUTORIALS – You will find so many helpful tutorials on my YouTube channel, from nervous beginners to intermediate level. Have a look at the playlists and find what is most suitable for you on the: Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts YouTube channel

ABOUT THIS PROJECT

Skill level: Beginners to confident needle felters

Make time: 6 to 8 hours

STYLE

Think Cornish coastline meets Balamory, which was actually set in Tobermory. Full of vibrant colours and details, I approached it like a paint by numbers, colour between the lines, sort of project. It is beautifully simple and, apart from the seagulls and some sea detail, this project is completely flat felted. It is not difficult and is soothingly repetitive. You can pick it up whenever you feel like it, have a break and do some more.

Image shows needle felted pictures of houses on a harbour wall, in lots of bright bold colours.

TECHNIQUE

As the technique for most of the project is the same, video tutorials and the pattern will guide you through the different sections, from tracing the picture, using the fabric, type of needles to use, laying down the fibres, outlining the details, and building up some of the areas to add dimension, detail, and contrast.

ADD YOUR OWN FLAIR

If you are a confident crafter, or this isn’t your first needle felting gig, feel free to blend your own colours, add fabric scraps, beads, and your own details.

IS IT YOUR FIRST TIME FELTING ON LINEN?

If so, it will feel quite strange for the first ten minutes, but you will quickly get used to the different work surface. This is also a popular choice for flat felted animal portraits.

WHY LINEN?

I love experimenting with different fabrics for flat needle felting and, there are several reasons why linen/Calico works really well for this project

  • It needs to be a close weave linen/Calico so that your needle doesn’t damage the fabric or create holes in the weave.
  • Perfect for tracing your image onto in detail, which you just can’t do with a wool felt base.
  • It is also a great base for this project as you want the fibres to lay as flat as possible, with no distortion, allowing for tiny details to be added without getting lost.
image shows how to start a needle felted picture

THE WOOL

If you are working from the kit you will find mostly carded wool and a few wool tops. In addition there are some beautiful silk fibres, and wool silk blends which add great contrast and interest to the finished piece.

USING YOUR OWN WOOL STASH

Almost any felting wool can be used with ease for this project. Just grab as many bright and bold colours you can from your wool stash.

WHAT FELTING NEEDLES DO I NEED?

The entire project can be completed with one needle. I found the 38 star needle to be my favourite for this project, and I also used the 7 needle punch tool but removed 2 of the needles as I found it penetrated the foam mat surface more easily.

You can also use a needle felting pen tool, or a wooden multi tool with 3 needles. All the needles and tools can be found in the tools section on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website.

WHAT FELTING MAT SHOULD I USE?

I have used a large foam mat – 30cm x 30cm – with a wool felt topper to protect it. However, any felting mat will do, including a soft wool mat, or hessian mat.

image shows seagulls being needle felted

ALWAYS USE A PROTECTIVE TOPPER!

Whatever surface you are working on, I always advise using a topper to protect your mat. Anything from a wool/cotton blend to 100% wool is suitable. It will stop your work from sticking to your felting mat and significantly extend its working life, saving you money and reducing landfill waste. Your wool topper can be sustainably and easily replaced.

LIFT YOUR WORK REGULARLY FROM THE FELTING MAT

This is especially important when flat needle felting or needle felting a picture. If you don’t lift your work regularly you will find it much harder to peel from your mat. It is normal for your work to stick but this is reduced if you keep moving it, especially when using a multi needle tool.

YOU WON’T GET IT WRONG

Because there is no right and wrong when it comes to this project, and adding your own preferences and details. It is more important that you work on your technique to give you the best possible result. Take your time and make sure to take regular breaks. I would recommend you complete this project in three or more sittings.

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIALS

 I love questions so please feel free to message me at:

        info@lincolnshirefenncrafts.com

        or via the website contact form at:

        www.lincolnshirefenncrafts.com

Easy Needle Felted Flowers – DIY Tutorial!

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How amazing do these needle felted flowers look? Elegant felted Calla lilies or striking sunburst flowers; What a bloomin treat of a needle felting tutorial have I got for you! Two totally different flowers, two different techniques, but both results are easy to achieve and, quite simply, bloomin marvellous! Ok, no more flower puns…probably?

You have the divine, realistic, beautiful in it’s simplicity, Calla lily. Then, in complete contrast, the flamboyant, look at me style of this lush needle felted flower brooch which is part sunflower, part succulent, and part sea anemone. Best of all, you get to choose your own personal style with the easy techniques I am going to teach you.

HAVE YOU JUST STARTED NEEDLE FELTING?

It doesn’t matter if you are a needle felting beginner, or a seasoned needle felter, this is the perfect project for those crafty moments when you need to add some colour and style to your creative day. It is also a great way to learn new needle felting techniques and apply them to an endless number of felted projects.

EASY NEEDLE FELTING VIDEO TUTORIALS

You will find the video tutorials for both felting projects at the bottom of this page but you should definitely read my hints and tips before you start; especially if you are new to needle felting!

The key to the success of this felting project is getting perfectly shaped petals which can be easily done without the need for a cookie cutter, or template. Making them free hand allows you to create any shape or style you want and my super easy techniques will show you how to do just that, including the elegant Calla Lily stems.

IS NEEDLE FELTING HARD?

Nervous about starting? Then you are in exactly the right place! Needle felting isn’t hard, but getting the basics right (from the get go), is essential to helping you progress quickly and will make your needle felting journey a joy. If you have the enthusiasm then I promise you I will give you the confidence and techniques you need to make your needle felting projects successful. Always remember that any craft is a learning curve and any ‘mistakes’ you make are essential to the learning process. That said, the joy of working with wool, and needle felting in particular, allows much room for error. Even if the end result isn’t what you intended, rest assured you will end up with a beautiful ‘something’ at the end of it. One of my happiest ‘mistakes’ was a mouse that ended up as a cat. I was thrilled because cats are my needle felting nemesis. It was hugely popular and I have had many requests for a tutorial, which will probably never happen as I haven’t a clue how it ended up that way; aah, the joys of needle felting…

GRAB YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD FOR BEGINNERS

Join the VIP Felt Club! It’s free and you will receive a free needle felting pattern, lifetime discount code, exclusive early access to new product launches and promotions, as well as notification of new tutorials and live needle felting workshops.

Or get creative with me over at THE FELT HUB

I have created a Facebook group that will inspire and develop your needle felting confidence (whatever level you are at), and encourage others to get involved, in a more private space. You will also be able to comment and share your WIP creations during and after the live workshops and ask for help and support from myself or other members. It’s a lovely community where you can grab some crafty respite.

MAKE GORGEOUS NEEDLE FELTED FLOWERS!

Display the striking Calla lilies in a vase, create your own DIY wedding bouquet or button holes, have them as a beautiful centrepiece or just as a calming moment in any room.

The ‘Sun Burst’ flower brooch is a total contrast to the lily, in its flamboyant and colourful presence. Us a bright and bold wool that demands the viewers attention and add a simple or exotic centre. Beautiful worn as a brooch, a scarf pin, displayed as a single flower with an added stem, added too an Alice band, or part of a bigger display. I love a colourful headband and am itching to make something Frida Kahlo style so watch this space?

However you wear or display yours, just enjoy the fabulously meditative and creative process and needle felt away the detritus of the day.

WHAT WILL YOU NEED?

The WOOL PACKS AND KITS for these flowers can be purchased on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website.

If you already have your own stash of wool, needles and mats then here is a materials list for you.

These are the wools I have used for the two needle felted flowers, but feel free to raid your wool stash and create your own style.

WHAT’S THE BEST FELTING WOOL FOR THIS PROJECT?

For the Cala Lily I have used natural white Perendale carded batting sheet, carded green lengths for the stem, and a creamy yellow wool top/roving for the stamen. Perendale batt is my favourite as its natural colour is much whiter than most other batting, making it perfect for projects where you want the whitest top coat or finish; I also use it for Daphne Chicken. It felts easily with a really smooth finish, and is super clean with little to no grassy bits to pull out.

For the sunburst flower petals I have used a vibrant blended carded wool, with added carded zingy yellow. For the centre of the flower I have created two completely different looks; the first using yellow and white wool tops, the second using wool yarn in bright complimentary colours.

KEY POINTS

Calla Lily

  • Use equal amounts of wool for each petal.
  • Make sure it’s firm.
  • No thicker than 1-2mm.
  • Leave the end of each petal loose for easy attachment. 4 Use your first petal as a size and shape guide.

Sunburst flower brooch

  • Use equal amounts of wool for each petal.
  • Make sure it’s firm.
  • No thicker than 1-2mm.
  • Leave the end of each petal loose for easy attachment.
  • Use your first petal as a size and shape guide.

VIDEO TUTORIALS

Now that I have built up the creative excitement it’s time to get stuck into this gorgeous needle felting project. Grab your wool, needles, or felting kit and fill your crafty boots with the video tutorials below.

Happy felting!

NEEDLE FELTED CALLA LILY

NEEDLE FELTED SUN BURST FLOWER BROOCH

5 TOP NEEDLE FELTING KITS AND HOW TO START NEEDLE FELTING?

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NEEDLE FELTING IS SO EXCITING!

So don’t be nervous. Starting a new craft can be exciting but also a little confusing. Needle felting is no different and the array of wool, tools and accessories can send you into a confusing tailspin.

The truth is, you don’t need a lot to get started with needle felting, and it is also a budget friendly hobby. That is until you become addicted, which you will, and then no amount of felting wool will ever be enough!

That’s why I always recommend a needle felting starter kit to get you going, so you can test the needle felting waters. They are inexpensive and have absolutely everything you need to complete each project from start to finish. It avoids you feeling overwhelmed and helps to build your creative confidence. All you have to do is open the box and add enthusiasm.

MY TOP 5 FELTING KIT RECOMMENDATIONS

Here are my top 5 recommendations for beginners kits. They all come beautifully boxed and are perfect for storing your supplies! No sewing, no tricky patterns and they take just a few hours of your time! They also use our gorgeous British wool, carefully selected for its excellent needle felting properties.

GREY HARE NEEDLE FELTING KIT

Make time: 3-4 hours

If you love ETSY you can find me HERE

Complete stunner and he knows it! This, along with the Herdwick Sheep, is the most popular beginners kit. It is such fun to make and you can follow the instructions to the letter, or add your own touches. As well as detailed instructions you can felt along on YOUTUBE by following the beginners playlist.

HERDWICK SHEEP NEEDLE FELTING KIT

Make time: 2-3 hours

My favourite sheep from the Lake District is an ever popular needle felting kit. Great for building your needle felting confidence, this super kit will soon have you warmed up and ready for your next project. As well as detailed instructions you can felt along on YOUTUBE by following the beginners playlist.

RUSTIC ROBIN – SHOP NEEDLE FELTING KIT

Make time: 2-3hours

A gorgeous little project that has enough wool to make two of our favourite UK garden birds. A perfect project to create with your bestie or, one for you and one to give away. There is also a great video tutorial HERE showing you how easy it is to create a perfect wing shape without the need for a cookie cutter.

JACK RUSSELL – SHOP NEEDLE FELTING KIT

Make Time: 3-4 hours

What’s not to love with this design? Even better, you can change the markings to represent your own four legged friend. As well as detailed instructions you can felt along on YOUTUBE by following the beginners playlist.

SHROOM’ WITH A VIEW – SHOP NEEDLE FELTING KIT

Make time: 3-4 hours

If you are looking for a home for the wee little fairies and forest dwellers, then this is right up your street. Lot’s of different techniques and a great needle felting kit for beginners. Any self respecting gnome or fairy would be thrilled to have the keys to this house! As well as detailed instructions you can felt along to the video tutorial HERE

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT NEEDLE FELTING?

Join the THE FELT HUB with Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts

How To Needle Felt A Quirky Christmas Gnome?

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Well what a blast this live workshop was, recorded in all it’s festive glory for you to enjoy. From his pointy ears to his massive snozzle, every part of this project is an absolute seasonal delight.

Believe it or not this gorgeous pointy eared gnome is a perfect project for everyone, even complete beginners. Learn how to needle felt a quirky gnome, using all my needle felting tips and quick wins. You will be able to create a project that looks like it was made by an expert needle felter, and in less than 90 minutes! How amazing is that?

Scroll down for video tutorial, or take your time and enjoy my creative suggestions.

I have added some sparkly fairy lights to my dome.

WHY NOT ADAPT THIS NEEDLE FELTING PROJECT TO SUIT YOUR FESTIVE THEME?

It is small enough to pop in a dome, hang from your tree, or create a festive gnome garland. I have just received a photo on my Facebook page where they have even been made as little place settings for the dinner table; how Christmas cool is that? However you display yours, you will have so much fun creating them so, time to grab your wool and needles and get making.

With his festive hat askew, funny ears and big nose, it is obvious he is just waiting for mischief around every corner , even the Grinch couldn’t resist him!

JUST STARTED NEEDLE FELTING?

Order your wool bundle or needle felting kit HERE

MAKE TIME: 70 minutes

  • Coarse wool top for the body
  • Colour carded wool for the hat
  • Grey and white wool top for the beard
  • Light carded wool for ears and nose
  • BBQ skewer to make the nose around
  • 1 x size 38 felting needle
  • Felting base

VIDEO TUTORIAL

I have split it into sections so you can skip the intro and cut straight to the felting, but please take time to appreciate my fabulously festive background 😉 🎄

Happy Festive Felting!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART?

I can’t decide whether it is the jauntily angled crooked hat, his pointy ears, or his giant nose. Let me know in the comments and share your photos with me.

P.S. Want more creativity? Subscribe below for creative updates!

How to make your own curls for needle felted sheep

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So you have spent hours making your fabulous needle felted sheep, only to realise you don’t have any curls to finish it. Grrrr! Not to worry, just grab a ball of wool, yarn or similar and make your own. It’s really easy and creates a whole new look for your needle felted animals; Scroll down for video tutorial.

It is also very calming and saves you sitting by the post box like this, impatiently waiting for your curly wool to arrive.

VIDEO TUTORIAL

Here is a quick video (part 2) showing you how easy it is. I have used a coarse rug yarn but any yarn with an element of wool in it will do.

Use any yarn you have in your craft box; It is easier to apply if it has some wool content. I have used a coarse rug yarn and a really soft Merino for these two gorgeous sheep.

Create beautiful texture with standard yarn

You will also find out how to add this lush, art yarn (video part 1) to your projects. I used a 40 triangle needle as it is a little easier but a standard (usually a 36 or 38 gauge) will do just fine.

Video part 1 – Art yarn application

Sheep needle felting kits using this fabulous art yarn are available on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website

Happy creating. Sandy x