Tag: needle felting for beginners

Needle Felting Made Easy! How to Needle Felt Animals

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Needle felting, a delightful crafting pursuit, grants you the joy of turning raw wool into enchanting sculptures. Whether you’re venturing into this craft as a complete novice or honing your expertise as a seasoned needle felter, this blog post is ready to provide you with a wealth of valuable insights and tips. Within its pages, discover a treasure trove of knowledge to aid you in the creation of truly splendid felted masterpieces. Immerse yourself in this informative read for top-notch guidance, promising to elevate your skills and have you crafting marvelous felted wonders with ease and finesse in practically no time at all. Happy felting crafters!

Needle felted sheep being made
WATCH SHEEP TUTORIAL
Needle felted hare held in the palm of a woman's hands. She is wearing a pink dress and the hare is a DIY needle felted project
Brown needle felted woodland hare held in a persons hands showing what can be made if you watch the needle felting tutorial.
WATCH HARE TUTORIAL

Needle Felting Made Easy Key Points:

Choosing the Right Materials:

  • High-quality felting needles: Invest in fine and coarse felting needles for different tasks.
  • Wool roving: Select natural wool roving in various colors to bring your creations to life.
  • Felting pad or mat: A soft surface to work on and protect your needles.
  • Optional extras: Consider wire armatures, felting handles, and googly eyes for more complex projects.

Understanding Your Tools

  • Learn about the different types of felting needles and their uses.
  • Understand the purpose of your felting pad or mat and how it helps in the felting process.
  • Experiment with optional tools to see what works best for your projects.

Mastering The Basics

  • Learn how to properly hold and use felting needles to avoid accidents.
  • Practice the basic poking and stabbing motions to shape and sculpt your wool.
  • Start with simple shapes like balls and cylinders to get a feel for the process.
A white needle felted sheep on a felting mat next to felting needles and wool. Text says: beginners start here.

Creating Sculptures with Depth

  • Gradually add layers of wool to build up your sculpture’s volume and form.
  • Pay attention to proportions and symmetry for realistic results.
  • Use reference images or real-life objects for inspiration and guidance.

Adding Details and Textures

  • Experiment with different felting needle sizes to achieve varying levels of detail.
  • Create textures like fur, feathers, or scales by altering your poking technique.
  • Blend and mix colors of wool roving to achieve realistic shading and highlights.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Learn how to fix loose or unevenly felted areas by reworking them with your needles.
  • Address fuzziness by gently felting the surface with a fine needle.
  • If your sculpture becomes too firm, use a coarser needle to soften it.

Improving Your Techniques

  • Once you’ve mastered the basics of needle felting and crafted your fair share of adorable animals, it’s time to elevate your skills to the next level. Exploring advanced techniques can open up a world of creative possibilities.
  • Consider delving into the art of wire armature construction, a method that allows for more intricate and poseable creations.
  • Multiple-needle felting is another exciting option, enabling you to work on larger projects efficiently while achieving a smoother finish. Layering techniques provide a way to add depth and realism to your creations, as you blend colors and textures with finesse.
  • These advanced techniques will not only challenge your abilities but also empower you to bring your needle-felted masterpieces to life in new and captivating ways.

Following the Step-by-Step Video Tutorials

  • To make learning needle felting even more accessible and enjoyable, I’ve put together an extensive library of step-by-step video tutorials. Whether you’re seeking quick tips or want to follow the entire process of crafting an animal from start to finish, my videos are designed to replicate the experience of a live workshop. They’re unhurried, ensuring you grasp each technique, and they’re fantastic for boosting your confidence and skills with every completed project. You can easily follow along with the videos, pausing and rewinding as needed, allowing you to master each aspect of needle felting. With over a decade of teaching and curating inspiring kits since 2014, you’re bound to discover the perfect projects that pique your creative interests.
Improve Your Techniques
Image shows someone needle felting a brown hare. Text says: what felting wool should I use?

To sum it all up, needle felting isn’t just a craft; it’s a wonderfully satisfying journey into the realm of creativity. Regardless of whether you’re a newbie embarking on this fluffy adventure or a seasoned felter perfecting your skills, the treasure trove of insights, tips, and those comprehensive video tutorials we’ve discussed here will undoubtedly work their magic, boosting your felting prowess and enabling you to create wonderful needle felted animals. And let’s not forget our trusty companions : practice and patience. They’re the unsung heroes, steering us toward confidence and proficiency in the world of needle felting.

So, just go for it! Enjoy turning simple, soft wool into beautiful needle felted animals. Let your imagination run wild in this fascinating world of needle felting. Your artistic potential isn’t limited to the sky; think of it as a canvas, and your creativity guides the way!

Ready To Start? You will love these as well!

Want to Start needle felting today?

Instantly download a needle felting pattern and get started straight away! On the hunt for inspiring needle felting patterns? There are patterns for all abilities on the website, from nervous beginners to confident needle felters, there is a pattern and video tutorial for you.

EASIEST EVER NEEDLE FELTED SHEEP VIDEO TUTORIAL!

Felt along with me, workshop style. Step by creative step.

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!

Free Access To The VIP Felt Club
Picture Needle Felting Patterns
Needle felted cactus in teracotta pots
Cactus Needle Pattern

What Are Felting Needles And How To Use Them?

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Quick Guide To Felting Needles

Felting needles are used for all needle felting projects, allowing you to transform loose wool fibers into simple 3 dimensional and 2 dimensional sculptures and pictures. Once you have learned the basics of needle felting you can create more intricate designs and sculptural forms. If you’re new to the world of needle felting this quick guide will walk you through the basics and how to use them effectively. For a more detailed guide read my Complete Guide To Felting Needles.

Now get ready to unlock your creativity and embark on a felting adventure! You will also find lots of useful links at the bottom of this 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.

Understanding Felting Needle Sizes

Felting needles are specialized tools designed with barbed tips, which help interlock and compress the wool fibers, creating a firm and cohesive structure. They come in various sizes, usually categorized by gauge or thickness. The most common gauges are 36, 38, and 40, with lower numbers indicating thicker needles, and higher numbers indicating finer needles.

Image shows the shape and size of a felting needle

What Felting Needle Should I Start With?

Image shows text explaining what the most commonly used felting needles are

Keeping it simple is always best if you’re new to needle felting felting, and I recommend starting with a medium-sized needle. The 38 gauge is my favourite as it is a good all rounder, providing a balance between versatility and ease of use, and completes most projects from start to finish. In fact it is my go to felting needle for starting almost all of my needle felting projects. You may also want to have a finer needle (although not necessary when starting out) such as a size 40, for finishing touches and surface details, which will reduce visible needle marks.

Once you have a good grasp of needle felting basics you can experiment with different needle sizes to find what works best for your specific project, and personal preference. Keep in mind that some suppliers refer to them as small, medium, and large, so it’s helpful to refer to the specific gauge or needle size mentioned on the packaging or product descriptions when making your selection. I always use needles that are numbered, such as Groz Beckert felting needles, which are the best quality in the industry.

What If I Have Needles And Don’t Know The Size?

Here is my quick test to determine the size of your felting needles:

1 If your needle tip is super bendy, it will be a fine needle – probably 40 gauge – used for finishing touches and finer details; it will break easily. This needle is sometimes referred to as ‘small’.

2 If there is a slight bend at the tip but with resistance, this is usually a size 38, my favourite, and a good all-rounder; it completes most projects from start to finish. This needle is sometimes referred to as ‘medium’.

3 If it is really firm with little to no bend then it will likely be a 36 gauge which is used for starting projects and flat felting. This needle is sometimes referred to as ‘large’.

Felting Needle Holders

Whether you are using a single needle, or multiple needles at the same time, a felting needle holder can speed up the felting process significantly, as well as making needle felting for long period more comfortable. The handles are also really useful if you have any dexterity problems, allowing you to needle felt for longer. You can find out more about needle holders, and their best uses, on my Ultimate Guide To Felting Needles.

Image shows a wooden handle that holds a felting needle
Image shows a wooden handle that holds three felting needles for faster felting
Image shows a wooden handle that holds three felting needles for faster felting
Image shows a wooden handle that holds three felting needles for faster felting and a hessian felting mat that is filled with dried rice.

Reverse Felting needles

Reverse felting needles can add imaginative, clever and realistic effects to your projects by puling the, already felted wool back out; the barbs run in a different direction to a standard felting needle Once you have gained some needle felting confidence I would highly recommend adding one of these to your craft stash. This blog post tells you all you need to know about reverse felting needles.

Image shows a needle felted bumble bee with fluffy eyebrows created with a reverse felting needle.
Image of a realistic needle felted pig.
Image of a needle felted moon gazing hare.

Basic Needle Felting Techniques

Preparing Your Workspace:

Set up a clean and well-lit area to work in. You will need a felting mat (foam, hessian, or wool) to work on which will protect your felting needles and your work surface, as well as making it much easier to create your shapes.

Materials

Are You Brand New To Needle Felting

If you are just starting needle felting the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website has everything you need; from complete starter kits to tools, wool, accessories, and gifts.

How To Create A Simple Shape

1 Start by forming a basic shape, with your hands, using your chosen wool. For example, if you’re making a needle felted animal, begin with a core shape resembling the animal’s body, head, legs etc. Use your hands to shape and compact the fibers and make sure the shape is firm before you start using your felting needle.

2 Always use your felting needle in a straight line and never bend, or twist it as it likely to break.

Series of images showing how to create a basic needle felted shape.

3 Hold the shape you have created with your non felting needle hand and push the felting needle vertically into your wool with your other hand. Gently push and pull the needle in and out of the wool, avoiding bending or twisting the needle. The barbs on the needle will tangle and compact the fibers together as you work. Gradually speed up as you become used to using the needle.

Building Layers and Detailing

4 Continue adding more fibers and felting them into the base shape. Gradually build up layers and define the desired features of your project. Use finer gauge needles (higher numbers) for adding details and finishing touches.

Image shows two needle felted hares. Text reads: how to start needle felting

5 Experiment with different angles of the needle to achieve the desired effects. Inserting the needle straight down will compact the fibers, while angling it will help blend colors or smooth surfaces.

Needle Felting Safety Tips

While felting needles are generally safe to use, it’s essential to keep a few precautions in mind:

  • Work slowly and mindfully, focusing on your work without distractions such as the TV
  • Keep your fingers well away from the needle’s to avoid accidental pricks
  • Use finger guards
  • Store needles safely, preferably in a container or pop in your felting mat when not in use
Image shows a hand holding a needle felted pumpkin. There are finger protectors on the thumb and forefinger.
Leather Finger Guards

In A Nutshell

Felting needles are powerful tools that allow you to bring your artistic visions to life. With the basic techniques outlined in this guide, you’re now equipped to start your felting journey. Remember to practice, be patient, and let your creativity flow. Whether you’re creating cute animals, unique jewelry, or decorative objects, felting needles will help you achieve stunning results. So, dive into the world of felting and unleash your imagination!

So What’s Next?

Now you have learnt the basics you are ready to enter a whole new world of creative possibilities, and this blog is full of free tutorials, patterns and video tutorials to keep the creative juices flowing. From complete beginners to something more challenging, there is a project for everyone. Use the easy to navigate menus as your guide, join the free VIP newsletter, or join our creative Facebook community.

Image shows a link to shop for needle felting kits.
Image shows a link to shop needle felting tools and accessories, including a felting mat, felting needles and felting wool.
Free Pattern And Access To The VIP Felt Club
Gnumpkin Gnome – Free Tutorial
Build Your Confidence
Easy Peasy Pumpkins – Free Tutorial
Join The Facebook Group
Image shows a needle felted pig and hedgehog. Text reads, "why reverse felting needles are so cool".

How To Needle Felt With Wire? Amazing DIY Crafts!

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Learn how To Needle Felt With Wire – Easy step by step guide

Welcome to The Felt Hub with Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts, here to feed your passion for needle felting! This easy guide to using wire for needle felting will give you a god grasp of what wire to use, and when. From realistic horns, using only wool and a pipe cleaner, to full fox armature.

FREE DOWNLOAD

Links for free download, video tutorials, and felting wire are at the bottom of the post.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO USE WIRE TO BE GOOD AT NEEDLE FELTING

It may seem an odd place to start but it is important to know that many needle felters, including myself, rarely use a full wire armature. Many new needle felters – mistakenly – think that using wire means you are better at needle felting. This is not the case at all, and the truth is, most needle felting projects don’t need it. In fact, the trustee wooden BBQ skewer can completely change the finished look and stability of your needle felting projects, without the need for any wire. Just check out my Parsley Hare needle felting tutorial on YouTube to see how amazing this tool really is.

Image shows a tall brown needle felted hare that has been made without needle felting wire.

NEVER BE WITHOUT A WOODEN BBQ SKEWER

The humble wooden BBQ skewer is in my top 3 needle felting tools. It enables you to quickly, and easily create firm needle parts for your project, without the need for wire. Using one of these will change the way you needle felt. Find out more HERE

An image of lots of different types of needle felting wire.

PIPE CLEANERS CAN BE YOUR QUICK FIX FRIEND

A BBQ skewer wont work for everything though and a pipe cleaner, or two, makes it possible to add some really clever touches to your project. Especially tails and horns, flower stems, or to stop your legs doing the Fandango every time you try to get them to stand, or when your project is top heavy; why do I feel like I am talking about myself?

Shows how floristry wire can be used to make realistic needle felted flowers

ADD STABILITY AND POSEABILITY

Using wire for your needle felting projects will allow you to pose your animal and add more stability. It can be used for just a tail, the legs, neck, or the whole project.

Cute needle felted Herdwick sheep with wire in its neck so it can be posed at different angles.

TINY FINGERS, TOES, PAWS, AND CLAWS

This requires a much finer wire and the paper covered steel wire in your pack is just the job. No need for wax, and the wool sticks well to the paper, allowing you to get those delicate details. It also works well for super thin bird’s legs and claws.

SHAPING YOUR WIRES

Realistic needle felted fox. Fully poseable and needle felted around a wire armature.
Make amazing needle felted animals with easy to follow needle felting tutorials.

WIRE SIZES EXPLAINED

Wire gauge refers to the physical size of the wire; the smaller the wire gauge number, the larger/thicker the wire diameter. 

METAL TYPES

Whilst thicker is usually stronger, the type of metal affects its flexibility. Working on a like for like gauge size, Aluminium is the softest and most flexible, copper a little stronger, and steel (the paper covered wire) is stronger still.

GOOD OLD GARDEN WIRE

The plastic covered garden wire is a great substitute if that’s what you have lying around and can’t wait to try needle felting with wire. The plastic is also quite ‘sticky’ so holds the wool well.

12 GAUGE ALUMINIUM ARMATURE WIRE: 2.00mm

Ideal for medium to large lightweight sculptures. Strong but still easily shaped by hand, and with pliers.

Pipe cleaners can be wrapped around the armature so the wool sticks and does not slip and slide.

18 GAUGE ALUMINIUM WIRE: 1mm x 10 metres

Ideal for medium lightweight sculptures. Strong but still easily shaped by hand, and with pliers. Pipe cleaners can be wrapped around the armature so the wool sticks and does not slip and slide.

A picture containing different types of needle felting wire and pipe cleaners used for needle felting.

20 GAUGE ALUMINIUM ARMATURE WIRE: 0.8mm x 10 metres

Great for smaller projects. A finer wire that can be easily shaped by hand. Pipe cleaners can be wrapped around the armature so the wool sticks and does not slip and slide.

STEEL 0.5mm PAPER COVERED WIRE (approx. 26 gauge)

Ideal for tiny fingers, toes, and claws. Wool sticks well to the paper so you can keep your limbs, hands, and toes as small as possible.

STEEL 1mm PAPER COVERED WIRE (approx. 18 gauge)

A very strong paper covered wire that is ideal for projects that are heavier, or taller, or top heavy.

PIPE CLEANERS

Where would we be without the old faithful pipe cleaners which are perfect for small, lightweight armatures, and especially useful for wrapping around wire armatures so that the wool sticks. Also adds extra strength and stability to neck, back, and limbs, whilst allowing you to felt smaller feet, toes, hands, and claws.

A picture showing a person in a bright pink dress holding a realistic needle felted Hebridean sheep. It is being held in her right hand.

It’s perfect for quick horns and tails, or if you just want part of your project to be poseable or have more stability. Cotton covered pipe cleaners are all pretty much the same with regards to flexibility, unless you opt for a slightly stiffer pipe cleaner.

TOP TIP: DON’T GET HUNG UP ON THE NUMBERS

It really doesn’t matter the size of the wire, as long as it works for your project. It is also very much trial, error, personal preference, and practice.

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIALS HERE

Image shows a wire fox frame and text says, visit The Felt Hub on YouTube for video tutorials.

You will find lots in The Felt Hub on YouTube. Just look for the NEEDLE FELTING WITH WIRE playlist.

DON’T BE TOO AMBITIOUS

Start with a small simple project, such as horns or tails, and legs. Get used to wrapping the wool and working around the wire before trying tiny fingers and toes. Even the most competent of needle felters usually has a little sigh before starting on those, and it takes practice to get them right, lots of practice, so be patient. Each time you try those tiny paws and claws you will get better.

A picture showing a grey needle felted mouse wearing a red French beret. It is stood next to a painting easel with paintbrushes in the background.

ALWAYS LEARN THE BASICS OF NEEDLE FELTING FIRST

This is so important, and I can’t tell you the number of people I have seen give up because they have started on a complicated armature project before even using a felting needle for the first time. You have to walk before you run but the basics are quick and easy to learn.

SIMPLICITY CAN BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOUR PROJECTS

The mouse and cat pictured have thin wire in their legs and tail. It is super simple but adds an extra special touch. If in doubt, add a scarf as you can’t go wrong with one of those.

A picture showing a white needle felted mouse carrying a bunch of brightly coloured felted flowers. Second image shows a needle felted cartoon style Siamese cat.

USEFULL LINKS

SHOP: Needle felting wire, tools, and accessories

READ: Ultimate Guide To Needle Felting Wool And Sheep Breeds

JOIN THE VIP FELT CLUB AND GET YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD HERE

Easy template to create an armature for your fox or dog. Making an armature is easy, with the right technique, and you can use almost any flexible wire, or pipe cleaners you already have. This simple template will make sure you get the proportions of your needle felted fox, or dog, right every time.

Exclusive free downloads
Get your proportions right every time

HAPPY FELTING!

Image shows a needle felted gnome in bright orange and turqoise. The body is a needle felted pumpkin

Easy DIY Autumn Crafts To Make Your Home Feel Handmade

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FILL YOUR HOME WITH HANDMADE NEEDLE FELTED DECORATIONS

As soon as Autumn arrives I am already full-blown, pumpkin spice latte sweater dresses and jumper mode. It is my absolute favourite time of year as we start to hibernate and get really creative, filling our homes with cosy homemade fall and autumn décor! Without doubt, nothing says it better than pumpkins filling the rooms of your home, especially the ones you have made yourself, and there is no better time than now to grab a cuppa, and start creating with me.

MAKE A NEEDLE FELTED GNUMPKIN WITH ME

Make time: 90 minutes (20 minutes for the pumpkin)

It is full on pumpkin season, or should I say Gnumpkin season. Basically, it is a pumpkin, gnome hybrid but, and I am sure you will agree, they are a match made in heaven. It is my absolute favourite needle felting project at the moment, and I love it more because it can stay up as part of your DIY Christmas décor. This one has a full on Autumnal flavour but I am already making one in cool winter colours.

NO CRAFT OR DRAWING SKILLS NEEDED

This super easy needle felting tutorial will have you creating your own needle felted Gnumpkin in no time at all! Making needle felting easy is what it is all about, and you don’t need any craft or drawing skills. This step by step needle felting tutorial will help build your creative confidence, whilst teaching you all the needle felting basics, and no sewing, I promise! My easy techniques tips and hacks will have you felting in no time!

DO YOU NEED THE WOOL OR FELTING KIT?

Image shows a needle felted gnome. Text reads: New to needle felting? Click to order the kit.

If you have just started needle felting, kits are an especially great way to get started so you can get a real feel for a new craft. In addition to this, you are only spending a small amount to get going. The website is full of inspiring kits and inspiration for every ability.

Find it HERE on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website.

THE NEEDLE FELTED GNOME

The pumpkins alone are really fabulous but let’s take it up a notch and turn it into this super stylish, Gnumpkin. In addition, the full video tutorial is at the bottom of the page – my easy step, by step, felt along with me guide. I had so much fun designing and making these, and I know you are going to love it just as much!

A bright orange needle felted pumpkin sat in the palm of a hand to show a size comparison.

NEEDLE FELTED PUMPKIN

This forms the body of the gnome and is one of the easiest ever needle felting projects; you can make one of these in just 20 minutes, even complete beginners. Scroll to the bottom of the page for the video tutorial.

MAKE THE PUMPKIN BODY FIRST

Image shows what you need to start this needle felting project

LET’S GET STARTED – YOU WILL NEED:

Carded needle felting wool and wool tops – Felting needle – Felting mat – Wooden BBQ skewer or similar; this makes creating shapes so much easier.

Shows how to start needle felting your pumpkin

1 Lay a handful of core wool on your felting mat and create a rough bread roll shape with your hands. With your free hand start to felt with your needle.

2 Continue the process until your wool retains its size and shape.  TIP: It needs to be secure but very soft.

TIME TO ADD THE CARDED WOOL BATTING

3 Sit your shape on top of your piece of wool batting and start to wrap the batting sheet around it, pulling towards the centre of, what will be, the bottom of your pumpkin.

4 Felt the batting into the centre of the wool until it holds. Continue the process until all the core wool is covered and pull away any excess. Tip: White patches are fine as they add contrast

5 Pumpkin ready for shaping, smooth side up.

6 Using your felting needle ‘draw’ a clearly defined line around the entire pumpkin, starting from middle centre and finishing where your line started.

7 Repeat until your pumpkin is divided into eight sections.

8 Take a long, thin piece of contrasting wool top and felt securely into the lines you have just created. Again, work from centre top and finish where you started, leaving any loose strands. TIP: Any loose strands can be trimmed for neatness, but also look good as decoration. Your pumpkin is ready. Time to make a Gnumpkin.

MAKING THE PERFECT GNOME HAT

I tried a few techniques before deciding which one would give me the best result in the most simple way. I found using the trustee wooden skewer allowed me to create the perfect cone shape that didn’t flop around. The needle felted acorn is the perfect finishing touch and only takes minutes to make.

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIALS BELOW

Image shows your finished needle felted gnome Gnumpkin, sat on a pile of bright orange pumpkins.

GNUMPKIN VIDEO TUTORIAL

PUMPKIN VIDEO TUTORIAL

ACORN VIDEO TUTORIAL

Last but not least, learn how to add a super seasonal acorn to your Gnumpkin hat; the cherry on the cake so to speak.

Save to your Pinterest board for a daily dose of Pinspiration.

WANT MORE GNOME TUTORIALS?

Want more gnome tutorials, and seasonal inspiration? Just click below to discover all of the amazing Christmas DIY projects you can create with just a felting needle and a handful of wool.

MORE GNOMES
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Make Easy Needle Felted Pumpkins – In Just 20 Minutes

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EASY NEEDLE FELTED PUMPKINS

This is one of the easiest needle felting projects you can make. These gorgeous needle felted pumpkins are utterly addictive and make for some really show stopping Autumn/Fall décor! Imagine having these plump beauties dotted around the house, made into garlands, or given as gifts to only your best friends.

HAVE A PUMPKIN CRAFT PARTY

They are so much fun and so easy, why not have a craft party and needle felt the afternoon away. Imagine how many of these you could make in just a couple of hours, and more fun than you can shake a witches broomstick at.

VIDEO TUTORIAL

You will find my step by step video tutorials at the bottom of this page
Make time: 20 minutes

You will need:

  • Core wool – small handful
  • Carded orange, and yellow wool batting – 5g
  • Wool tops – 5g
  • Felting needle – 38 star is a good all rounder
  • Felting mat

LET’S GET STARTED!

Image shows the start of needle felting a pumpkin. Make Easy Needle Felted Pumpkins - In Just 20 Easy Minutes

1 Roll a small handful of core wool into a very rough ball and felt to hold in place. This will only take a minute as you need to keep it soft; this is what helps create the pumpkin shape.

2 Wrap a thin piece of carded batting around the core wool and felt at the base.

TOP TIP: Don’t cover up any patches as this will enhance the finished look once you add a second layer

3 Continue to felt the wool batting towards the centre and pull away any excess. Sit it ‘bottom’ down on your mat and check the shape.

4 Working from the top to the bottom, repeat the previous step with a different colour, making sure it is pulled thin enough for the base layer to show through.

CREATING SEGMENTS

5 Lay a very thin piece of wool top across the centre of your pumpkin and felt to secure. Wrap it quite tightly around your pumpkin and felt the two ends together at the base.

TOP TIP: The base won’t be visible so you can felt really firmly. Pulling it tightly around the pumpkin creates the ‘segments’.

Image shows how to create segments for your needle felted pumpkin.

6 Continue as in the previous step until you have eight distinct segments. Because the core was left really soft you now have a very obvious pumpkin shape.

7 Work gently around your pumpkin with your felting needle and tidy up any loose, untidy, or lumpy sections. It needs to look good from all sides, but don’t worry too much about the base as it won’t be seen.

8 Create a stem for your pumpkin

1 Blend a little wool together
2 Roll firmly and felt into a rough stem shape, keeping the end loose
3 Roll firmly in your hands to firm and shape
4 Continue to felt, flatten the top, and narrow the base

9 Felt the loose wool (at the narrow base) into the centre of your pumpkin. feel free to add any embellishments. I have added a lovely crochet leaf which really finishes it off. You could also add curly locks and different fibres, or acorns.

WATCH THE ACORN TUTORIAL

I hope you really loved this tutorial. For more pumpkin tutorials click HERE If you want to felt alongside me, workshop style, just click on the video links below.

Three needle felted pumpkins and acorns on a grey slate table top
Pumpkin is sat in someone's hand. An DIY autumn wreath and pumpkins can be seen in the background.

VIDEO TUTORIALS – PUMPKIN AND ACORNS

How To Needle Felt With Wire (easy step by step guide!)

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Create realistic needle felted animals

Welcome to The Felt Hub, here to feed your passion for needle felting! This easy felting tutorial will show how to needle felt with wire, and create realistic needle felted horns, using only wool and a pipe cleaner. It’s easy, fun, and a great way of getting more detail and dimension into your needle felting projects.

A GREAT TUTORIAL FOR BEGINNERS, TO CONFIDENT NEEDLE FELTERS

Need help to start needle felting, or improve your existing needle felting skills? My easy techniques, tips, and hacks will have you felting in no time, showing you how to needle felt with wire and create these realistic animal horns. The design on these animal horns would often need to be done with clay, but I’ve found a way that’s much easier and no waiting for clay to dry. It is also lighter than clay, so avoids any stability issues, plus you can pose, and move them to any shape and angle you want. All you need is a little felting wool and a pipe cleaner and you can make your own realistic horns in no time at all.

Scroll down for the tutorials or read on if you are brand new to needle felting.

JUST LEARNING TO NEEDLE FELT?

Click to get started with easy tutorials

I have been teaching needle felting, with absolute passion, since 2014 and I’m here to help! From the novice who has never needle felt before, all the way up through an experienced crafter – I have tutorials for every skill level. You can start by checking out my HOW TO START NEEDLE FELTING guide or if you’re looking for some simple basic shapes to get you started check out THE BASIC SHAPES section on this blog
I get really excited about teaching people how easy and fun it is to create beautiful items with wool and a felting needle and, my hope is that you will feel empowered after learning these new skills to try lots more craft projects.

Just saying… Once you get started you may lose hours, even days. However, it is one of the best rabbit holes you can fall down!

Creating realistic horns for your needle felted sheep is really quick and easy, and doesn’t require the use of clay or wax. Plus, I always prefer to work with wool whenever I can and found that using wool, rather than clay, allowed me to be more creative with the details.

HEBRIDEAN SHEEP

I have put together a written tutorial, and a video tutorial, for this technique which I have used to make the impressive horns for my needle felted Hebridean Sheep. These sheep are stunning, and many have two sets of horns. They have luscious black coats which turn to shades of black and golden brown in the warmer months. However, you can adapt this needle felting technique for whatever needle felted animal you are making.

KITS AND PATTERNS

The Hebridean needle felting kit and pattern download are available on the website.

SHOP KITS

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. Always use your felting mat to work on.

FELTING NEEDLES WILL BREAK IF NOT USED CORRECTLY

Remember to always poke your needle in a straight line, no matter the angle, so as not to break your needle.

MAKE TIME – 15 MINUTES

You will need:

ARE YOU READY TO GET STARTED?

WRITTEN TUTORIAL

Both horns will be made as one piece on one pipe cleaner; this technique means that you won’t need to make two separate horns that would need to poked, then be glued into the head. It’s also much simpler and quicker.

1 Mark a 2cm gap in the centre of your pipe cleaner and do not attach any wool to this area. It will make attaching the ears to the head much easier.

2 Wrap a little around the centre of the pipe cleaner and felt with your needle two or three times, until it holds.

3-4 Keeping your fingers close to the pipe cleaner (so the wool doesn’t pull away), start to wrap the wool tightly around the pipe cleaner. TOP TIP: Keep the wool flat between your thumb and finger so the wool doesn’t twist and become lumpy and uneven

5-6 Continue wrapping until you get close to the end of the pipe cleaner. IMPORTANT! Keep the overhang at the end of the pipe cleaner to a minimum as this will be the tip of the horn, and will be the narrowest part.

7 Wrap the wool back down to where you started, felting as you go, and thicken at the base.

8 Continue to shape, aiming for approximately 1cm diameter at the base to just a couple of mms at the tip. Make sure it is felted firmly and smooth by using your needle at a diagonal angle.

9-11 Firm the end by rolling in the palm of your hand with the tip of your finger. Repeat for the other horn.

12 Time to add some surface detail.

13 Take a very thin strip of your light carded wool and attach to the base of the horn. TOP TIP: Make sure it is thin enough for the darker brown to show through.

14-16 Turn and wrap along the horn leaving small gaps as you go. Felt very gently too secure.

18 Your horns are now complete and ready to attach to your project.

The gap you left in the middle of the pipe cleaner allows you to attach to the head without any lumps and bumps. The overall effect looks as if the horns are actually part of the head, instead of just plonked on top.

VIDEO TUTORIAL

If you are more of a visual learner you can felt alongside me in The Felt Hub on YouTube, which is packed with needle felting video tutorials for every skill level!

CONCLUSION

That’s it! You now know how to create a needle felted animal horns with wire. This is a great technique to use if you want to add some extra realism and detail to your animals, and no need for any clay, wax, or tricky techniques. Just beautiful natural wool, a felting needle, and enthusiasm! I can’t wait to see what you create! In the meantime, be sure to check out more of my TUTORIALS for other simple and exciting ways to add details to your needle felted animals. Have you tried adding wire before? Let me know in the comments below?

HOW TO NEEDLE FELT A CHICKEN – EASY DIY PROJECT

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FUN AND COLOURFUL NEEDLE FELTED CHICKEN

Improve your needle felting techniques and add a needle felted chicken to your creative menu. Calorie and guilt free but hours of fun! You will also learn how to needle felt a perfectly smooth finish; the Holy Grail of needle felting

The key to this project is getting a good shape and perfectly smooth finish and I am going to show you exactly how to achieve it, with easy step by step instructions and more photographs than you can shake a tail feather at. Suitable for confident beginners and more experienced needle felters.

SHOP PATTERN DOWNLOAD

Scroll to bottom of page for video tutorials.

Daphne is wonderfully adorable and so much fun to make. Detailed instructions (more than 4,500 words), 110 step by step full colour photographs, plus lots of different needle felting techniques; including perfecting your shapes and getting a super smooth finish.

Makes one large chicken (approximately 13cmH x 18L) or two smaller ones.

PURCHASE THE PATTERN

To purchase pattern separately CLICK HERE

MAKE TIME: 4-5 hours. See description below for more details.

YOU WILL NEED:

  • Downloadable pattern
  • White core wool approx. 20-25g for body, head, and neck.
  • 10g white carded batting for covering the body and making the wings
  • Pinch light brown wool for eyes and eyebrows
  • Pinch of orange for the beak
  • 2g of contrasting colour for the crown and waddle
  • 5 thin pieces of wool tops (bright colours) for the tail
  • 2 x Standard felting needle – size 38 is a good all-rounder
  • 1 x Fine felting needle – size 40
  • Wooden BBQ skewer (or similar) for shaping the head – optional
  • Felting mat

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIALS

PART 1 – BODY
PART 2 – WINGS
PART 3 – FACE, CROWN, WATTLE AND TAIL FEATHERS

HOW TO NEEDLE FELT A CUTE GNOME – EASY TUTORIAL!

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GNOMES ARE NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS

Join me for this easy needle felted gnome craft project. Felt alongside me and create this beautiful gnome in a hoop, which is so much fun to make and beyond cute. It is such a simple needle felting project, made easy by my step by step needle felting tips and techniques. I will also show you how to make the easiest needle felted hearts, without a cookie cutter! You can adapt it to your own style, using whatever felting wool you have to hand, keeping it simple or embellish the heck out of it. Materials list and video tutorial is below and it only takes around 90 minutes from start to finish, and imagine this as a beautiful homemade Valentine’s gift… 💜

MAKE TIME: 90 minutes

MATERIALS LIST

  • 1 x 38 star or triangular felting needle
  • Felting mat/base
  • Wool tops and carded wool
  • 15cm Embroidery hoop (optional)
  • 20cm piece of flat felt Yarn for decoration (optional)

CREATE YOUR OWN DESIGNS

This gorgeous project could just as easily be made on a piece of felt (just as in the tutorial) and popped in a lovely frame. It would look so lovely as a cushion design, or sew the finished project onto a jacket or bag. The options are endless so don’t be afraid to experiment, and swap the colours to suit.

NEEDLE FELTED GNOME VIDEO TUTORIAL

SEE MORE BEGINNERS TUTORIALS
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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

What Needle Felting Wool Should I Use? Easy Guide!

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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NEEDLE FELTING WOOL!

Well almost ‘ultimate’, I’m not the oracle, but I have been needle felting since 2013 so I know quite a lot about needle felting wool, and it’s a pretty decent guide, even if I do say so myself.

It’s quite special and I spent many hours putting it together so, to access it you need to be part of the Facebook live workshop and events group, or a member of the VIP Felt Club news letter. It is just another way of being part of the LFC (Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts) creative community where I am on a mission to get as many people as possible involved in this amazing craft. Both groups are completely free to join and, to access the guide just enter your password, or find it in the Facebook group topics section.

Please note that this is for personal use only. Do not share anywhere online, in groups or on social media.

DOWNLOAD YOUR WOOL GUIDE HERE

Or click below to access via:

JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP
JOIN THE VIP NEWSLETTER

DOWNLOAD MY ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NEEDLE FELTING WOOL AND HOW TO USE IT?

COPYRIGHT LINCOLNSHIRE FENN CRAFTS 2022

Join The Needle Felting Group And Watch Free Live Workshops

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THE FELT HUB FACEBOOK GROUP IS NOW OPEN!

It’s completely free and when you join the needle felting and free workshops group you will benefit from exclusive access to my free live workshops, all in one place, including all previous workshops. I hope this group 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. 

CLICK TO JOIN THE FELT HUB

Join The Needle Felting Group And Watch Free Live Workshops

Plus so much more! Whilst the group will be primarily for live workshops events and updates, I will also be dropping in with some impromptu live sessions sharing needle felting techniques, quick wins and ideas. You can also drop into the group anytime to access all the tutorials in one place as each will be available to view after the event. It’s pretty busy in there some come meet the flock and put the next live workshop date in your diary.

P.S Click below to join. It’s completely free and a great way to enjoy some creative community in a more private space! Let’s start 2022 as we mean to go on? Creatively! 💗

JOIN THE FELT HUB

WHAT IS NEEDLE FELTING?

Apart from being the most joyful craft ever invented, needle felting is utterly versatile and allows you to create the most simple or complex sculptures with handful of loose wool and a barbed* needle. This is simply done by stabbing the wool repeatedly with the felting needle, shaping until it meshes the wool fibers together creating a firm object.

*They actually have notches but most sites describe them as barbed so that is what I will refer to them as… I will discuss needle sizes and their uses on another page.

CREATE PERFECT PETALS AND EASY NEEDLE FELTED FLOWERS IN NO TIME AT ALL!

The Origin of Needle Felting: Felt is strong and its origins go back to the 1950’s when  industrial size felting machines were invented to produce on a much larger scale for many items such as: car and instrument dampers, piano keys, insulation, polishers etc. However, needle felting as a craft is hugely popular and the craft world has been taken by storm by this addictive way to express ourselves creatively.

IS NEEDLE FELTING FOR ME?

Do you want to try a wonderfully addictive craft that has no limits, perfect for absolute beginners and beyond? Are you a first time crafter who’s really nervous of trying something new, but yearning to unlock your creativity and be inspired?

Do you enjoy a laid-back approach to crafts and are you looking for an affordable, no fuss, no sew craft or, craving creative ‘me’ time away from the noise and stresses of daily life?

If your answer was yes to any of the above then needle felting is for you. All you really need is enthusiasm!

DON’T FORGET TO JOIN THE FELT HUB ON FACEBOOK

Become part of the creative community and enjoy free live needle felting workshops!

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 Needle Felt With Confidence

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NEEDLE FELTING ISN’T HARD, BUT STARTING A NEW CRAFT CAN SOMETIMES FEEL A LITTLE DAUNTING

When someone tells me they can’t needle felt, or tried and failed, I can say with absolute confidence that it has nothing to do with ability. In fact, the two most common reasons why people fail at needle felting is lack of confidence and trying to run before they can walk. I really hope after reading this you will be able to start your needle felting journey with a newfound confidence, and enthusiasm.

ENTHUSIASM – It’s all you need to get started; if you have that then you are 75% of the way there. The other 25% is learning the basics first. Once you have done that (and it doesn’t take long at all) you can then start to build towards (in a realistic way) those wonderful projects you have seen on Pinterest. Nobody shows up anywhere with a set of skills already in place, be it learning a new language, instrument, crafts etc. Almost everything we do has to be learned, and practiced to become proficient. Think back to when you learned to tie your shoe laces. It seemed so hard at the time, but soon you didn’t need to think about it. Needle felting is no different, in-fact it’s easier because there are no tricky patterns, or awkward knots to fathom.

DON’T SET UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS OF YOURSELF – Do you know of anyone who has achieved anything without some degree of effort. More to the point, what would be the point in starting out at the top of our game. As humans are programmed to set goals, strive to improve ourselves. Imagine what a boring world it would be if we all suddenly woke up to find we could get to the top of Mount Everest, be proficient at guitar playing, build a house, type a hundred words a minute…

START WITH THE BASICS– The best way to start is with simple shapes that will become part of a whole. In just an hour – yes, you heard that right – you will be able to learn how to create simple shapes, use your felting needle, and attach parts together to complete a project. This hare is one of my most popular beginners projects. Click the button below to learn how to needle felt simple shapes; the start of your felting journey.

START YOUR JOURNEY HERE

TOP TOP TIP – ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE A BEGINNER! It’s often hard to find your confidence when you start needle felting, even harder if you haven’t done any crafting before, so tackling those fears is the first hurdle. The second hurdle is finding a good tutorial and materials guide that will give you the best chance of success. I can help with both of those things but you have the most important job, and that’s allowing yourself to be a beginner. And, as sure as eggs is eggs, if you don’t allow yourself a period of ‘learning’ grace you are setting yourself to fail. In fact, you have to get it wrong in order to succeed and believe me, when it comes to needle felting success comes very quickly.

FEAR OF FAILURE – TIME TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE

We are, so often, our own worst critics, and we use it as self preservation technique so we don’t have to start something i.e. a new craft. We literally talk ourselves out of it before we have even tried. It is like a fail safe but it can be very self destructive. So, time to change the narrative and, when you think to yourself, ‘I’ve failed’ simply change the statement to ‘I have learned’, and see how that self doubt just falls away. Each time you do this your confidence will grow, as will your skill set. Changing the mindset, that makes you way too hard on yourself, is the most important thing you will learn when it comes to starting a new craft, and that confidence will also find its way into many other aspects of our life.

This Calla Lily looks so realistic you would think it had taken months of practice. Not so! It is made using very simple techniques that any beginner can manage. If you fancy trying it then click below to watch the free tutorials and grab the materials list.

LET’S MAKE FLOWERS!

FEAR OF WHAT OTHERS WILL THINK

We often spend so much time worrying what others will say and, the truth is, they will probably be super impressed that you are learning a new skill. If not then the problem is probably their own self confidence and lack of courage to try something new themselves. Ask yourself who you are doing it for? The answer should always be you! If you really struggle then don’t show your felt creations to anyone until you feel ready, and then not at all if that is how you feel.

CRAFTS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE FUN…

Always remember, you are doing this for you and no one else. Crafts are all about you, and the enjoyment of just making, so try and loose yourself in those creative moments.

NEVER COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS!

Be realistic and always remember that they started off exactly the same way as you…as a complete beginner! If you are on chapter 1 and they are chapter 5 then it’s hardly a fair comparison, and it’s a sure fire way to ruin your day, and knock your confidence at the same time. Find your needle felting feet, learn the basics well, then start to look for inspiration. Also, it is completely normal to think ‘I will never be able to make that’. Honestly, time and practice will change your mind.

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF CRAFTS

Anxiety, loneliness, isolation and depression have never been more prevalent than they are in today’s society, and with good reason; a global pandemic, climate change, rising prices, job insecurity, fear for our kids, caring for others, the list goes on and on… But, amidst all of that, the world is still full of great people and creativity. If we just prescribed ourselves some craft therapy on a regular basis then everything will feel calmer, more grounded, safer. And, if that is just for the time you are involved in something that distracts you from the daily stresses and strains it will allow you to go about your day in a much better state of mind.

IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT YOU DO AS LONG AS YOU DO IT

If not needle felting then a jigsaw, sewing, growing house plants, gardening, reading, knitting, colour by numbers, in fact anything that requires your undivided attention. Even though it can be hard it is so important to create a little time to focus on yourself, even if only for half an hour. And fortunately needle felting is incredibly portable so, if you can’t find a quiet space or the household won’t leave you alone, I have often found the loo to be a good alternative. As I said, needle felting is very portable 😉

ARE YOU READY TO START NEEDLE FELTING NOW?

Let’s get going. The video tutorial below is an introduction to creating a really simple shape that will become the most important technique you will learn when first starting needle felting. It can be made in just 5-10 minutes and will act as the structure, or scaffolding for the rest of your project. My tutorials are very workshop style and are the nearest thing to one of my in person classes. Simplicity and speed are the cornerstone of all my tutorials and I am always looking for new techniques to help improve your needle felting journey as well as give you the confidence to fall in love with this craft as much as I have. I have added links for the playlist that will teach you how to complete hares, sheep, mice, foxes, badgers, gnomes and too many to mention, with ease. You just need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn.

DON’T HAVE ANY NEEDLE FELTING EQUIPMENT?

All needle felting kits and supplies can be found on HERE on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website

QUICK DO’S AND DON’TS GUIDE TO NEEDLE FELTING

Click HERE for my quick do’s and don’ts guide to needle felting.

NEEDLE FELTING VIDEO TUTORIALS – BEGINNERS PLAYLIST

MAKE ALL THE NEEDLE FELTED THINGS!

Needle felted hares and sheep are always popular for beginners, needle felted gnomes and pumpkins can be made in just 30 minutes, and why not rustle up a macaron or two in just 15 minutes! Needle felting ideas and tutorials are endless so checkout the menus at the top of the page and make all the needle felted things!

Wool Storage Ideas And How To Avoid Moths Without Chemicals?

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When it comes to crafts and wool storage, there is no such thing as a spare room; what an utterly ridiculous concept!? However, the easier it is to access our precious wool the more felting can be done. So, assuming we don’t have an entire house free for wool storage, what is the solution to storing our wool efficiently and safely?

There are three simple but important rules for keeping your wool in the best condition:

1 Keep it out of direct sunlight!

2 Keep the moisture out!

3 Avoid creating a welcome home for moths!

Save this photo to Pinterest for later!

CLICK HERE FOR FELTING WOOL GUIDE

 

Light And Moisture

Direct sunlight will, over time, bleach the colour out of your wool. A brightly lit room is fine (moths hate the light) as long as your wool is in containers that protect it from UV rays or the containers are facing away from the light. IMPORTANT! Don’t use sealed bags in a warm room because the moisture will build up inside and moisture is also wools enemy.

Much of my wool is in a very brightly lit room (below) but I remove it from the plastic bags and store it in black bins with lids, or open fronted stacking boxes, facing away from the windows. I don’t have any problems with fading wool or moisture (even in the summer) because the air can still circulate. No moth problem either because they hate bright light. For smaller amounts in bright rooms you can use cardboard shoe boxes, craft boxes, drawers, jute bags, etc.

 

What if you can’t store it in a brightly lit room?

If you are keeping wool in a dark room, drawer or cupboard – and many of us do – make sure they are in airtight containers or bags; this will keep the moths out; if you are concerned about moisture then pillowcases are a great solution or, wrap some kitchen roll or a tea towel around your wool before sealing. Silica gel sachets are also another moisture deterrent. Also, if your wool is stored for long periods, it is good practice to take it out occasionally air it and check for moisture.

Moth Deterrents Without Chemicals

A proactive approach is always best and Lavender and Cedar are good natural deterrents as the smell confuses the moths, throwing them off the scent in the hunt for your precious wool stash. However, neither will kill an infestation and, if the moth eggs are already there you will need to remove and dispose of the contaminated wool. There are hundreds of ‘remedies’ on the internet for getting rid of them but, as with everything, prevention is better than cure. Thankfully, in the nine years I have been using wool I have never had a moth problem (or used Lavender and Cedar) so, hopefully, neither will you.

Storage Ideas

I recently asked my Facebook community how they were storing their wool and they had some cracking storage solutions for large, and small amounts of wool which I thought I would share with you.

Jane has inventively stashed her wool in cardboard poster tubes with all the colours cleverly sticking out of each end. Or, if If you want quick access to all your lovely wool, then Lesley’s easy desk set up, using takeaway containers, is just the job. It’s also a great way of ogling your wool stash and thinking about which wool you are going to try next?

Sharon has stored all her lovely wool and locks in these handy compartment boxes. I think I have seen similar in B&Q and Argos? The tool storage aisle is always a great place to look and probably cheaper than the hobby stores. Sock drawer organisers are also a great way to store your wool in a similar way. It’s also a great portable solution so you can take your wool anywhere.

How’s this for super space saving ingenuity? Michelle has come up with a great solution for storing small amounts of wool in these fab jam jars which are the perfect shape for getting as much in a small space as possible. The six sided hexagon means that no space is wasted and is also the very reason that bees use the same pattern in their hives.

Open ended stacking trays are a great solution for storing wool, especially for a business that needs to store a lot of wool in the most efficient way possible. Door tidy’s are also a great way of utilising your space and keeping everything in one place.

Lin has cleverly used plastic shoe storage boxes and labelled each one so she can grab what she needs at a glance, and I love my craft drawers on wheels.

 

Kathy’s suitcases are an imaginative solution for storing your wool. However, Verity’s cat had other ideas???

I know there are hundreds more storage ideas but I hope this has given you some inspiration for keeping your own wool stash in the best condition possible and, if you are still struggling for space then the only option really is a second home???

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Happy felting! x

Want to know more about felting wool? Here’s a great WOOL GUIDE for you.