Category: Easy Projects

Simple, easy to follow needle felting projects for complete beginners

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. 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

Image shows a beach style wall hanging in cool blues and mustard colours, hung on a piece of driftwood

How To Make An Easy Boho Wall Hanging

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NO FUSS, NO TRICKY KNOTS, NO WEAVING

Ever wondered how to make an easy boho wall hanging, that doesn’t involve tricky knots? Sometimes you really need a simple craft project that doesn’t involve too much thinking, and definitely no tricky patterns. There’s something about no-fuss DIY crafts that are so satisfying. Maybe it’s because they’re usually quick and easy to put together, so you can see the finished result almost immediately. Or maybe it’s because they don’t require any fancy materials or complicated techniques, so anyone can do them. Whatever the reason, no-fuss crafts are the perfect way to spend a few creative hours.

USE UP THOSE SCRAPS OF FELTING WOOL, RIBBON, AND FIBRES

This project is a beautifully calming wall hanging, with a lovely beachy vibe, made from wool top, silk wool blends, yarn, re-cycled cotton rope and ribbons; feel free to add your own beads and embellishments.

MAKE TIME – 3 HOURS

All in all it took around me around three hours. This included gathering of materials plus an hour of faffing, pondering, and trimming time.

COLOURS ARE IMPORTANT

CHOOSING THE COLOUR PALETTE FOR YOUR BOHO WALL HANGING

A colour palette is important for most art and craft projects – it helps to set the mood and tone of your work, and can also be used to create a cohesive look. You can go wild and throw everything at it, but when choosing a colour palette for your boho wall hanging, it’s important to think about what mood you want to convey. Do you want your work to be calm and serene, or bold and vibrant?

Once you’ve decided on the overall feel of your project, you can start choosing specific colours. If you’re unsure where to start, a good place is with a limited palette of just a few colours. This will help you to focus on working with a specific range of hues, and also give your work a more unified look. As you become more comfortable with working with different colours, you can start experimenting with different palettes, adding in new shades and tones as you go. Ultimately, the best way to choose a colour palette is to follow your instincts and go with whatever feels right for you and your work.

GETTING STARTED

Please note: these are my suggestions and are there to act as a guide. Please feel free to add your own interpretation and just enjoy the process.

WALL HANGING KIT

If you want to replicate the colours in this DIY wall hanging then visit the WEBSITE or ETSY. It is a a beautifully simple, complete beginners, wall hanging kit packed with fabulous fibres and a driftwood mount. If you want to change the colours just message me at: info@lincolnshirefenncraft.com

CREATE THE BACKDROP

I have created a simple natural backdrop using re-cycled cotton rope (the type you see on macramé wall hangings), which is the perfect base for this project.

Cut equal-ish lengths (you will trim once your project is complete) and attach to your driftwood using a simple hitch knot (also called a larks head knot). It is the easiest of all knots and an easy way of creating a stylish backdrop to your project. I have kept mine very close together but needed to remove some as the project developed.

HOW TO CREATE A HITCH/LARKS HEAD KNOT

1 Cut to length and loop over your driftwood or pole; this will be the back of your project

2 Pull the tails through the loop and tighten. Continue along the length of wood and then turn it around so the front is now facing you.

Simple cotton rope backdrop mounted on a piece of driftwood

ADD YOUR WOOL, YARN AND RIBBON

Once you have your base material, simply start adding your materials. You can make whatever pattern you like, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. I have tied wool through some of the cotton loops, leaving some loose, others tied at various points, as well as plaiting which gives it a great look.

Add your ribbon and yarn to create more texture and contrast and any extra embellishments you may want to add. I found some old glass beads and jewellery that really complimented this project.

TOP TIP! Add more interest by cutting your wool, yarn and ribbon to different lengths.

LESS IS MORE…OR MAYBE NOT?

I have gone for the ‘less is more’ approach, as my temptation is to behave like a toddler decorating the Christmas tree. That said, if that’s your preference then you go for it! The key is to have fun and be creative. Just let your imagination run wild, and before you know it you will have created a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

TRIMMING

TOP TIP: Don’t rush this part and use sharp scissors

Trim your piece however you wish. I have gone with a gentle curve which is slightly longer at the centre, but you may want to go for a sharp V shape or a simple straight edge.

ET VOILA!

I hope you are thrilled with the finished result and now have a fabulous, no-stress wall hanging that makes you feel good every time I look at it. I also hope that it has inspired you make even more and keep crafting.

WANT MORE CREATIVITY? HOW ABOUT NEEDLE FELTING A BEACH SCENE?

Create your own stunning 2D needle felted Cornish seascape, bursting with colour and character. This beautiful NEEDLE FELTING KIT 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.

Available on the WEBSITE and ETSY or download the pattern HERE and get started today!

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. The addition of the cheeky three dimensional Seagulls really bring 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.

NO DRAWING SKILLS NECESSARY

I have made it really easy and done that bit for you. Your kit will include a printed copy of the picture (see photographs), with re-usable carbon paper, so you can quickly and easily trace the drawing onto your linen, which is the base for your project. Also, the slightly abstract nature of this project means that it is impossible to get wrong.

The full range of needle felting kits, and craft kits can be found HERE

image shows linen, carbon paper and a pre-printed picture that will be used to create the needle felted picture.

How To Make A DIY Boho Wall Hanging

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DIY Boho Style Wall Hanging

Make this gorgeous DIY boho style wall hanging, and give your mental health a huge boost whilst doing it! Some days you feel a bit ‘meh’ but you know that making something will shake you out of it. However, you really need a simple craft project that doesn’t involve too much thinking, and definitely no tricky patterns. Feeling this way the other day I decided I wanted to make a wool wall hanging that I could put together in just a few hours but would still look amazing. So, I raided my wool stash and craft box and set to work.

JUST STARTED CRAFTING? CLICK BELOW FOR THE COMPLETE KIT!

YOU CAN BUY THE COMPLETE WALL HANGING KIT HERE

Create beautiful, sustainable modern décor for the home!

There’s something about no-fuss DIY crafts that are so satisfying. Maybe it’s because they’re usually quick and easy to put together, so you can see the finished result almost immediately. Or maybe it’s because they don’t require any fancy materials or complicated techniques, so anyone can do them. Whatever the reason, no-fuss crafts are the perfect way to shake off a case of the “meh’s.”

What resulted was a beautifully calming wall hanging, with a lovely beachy vibe, made from bits of wool, old jewellery, beads and ribbons, and I wanted to share how easy it was to make and also let me take a break from myself for a few, no stress, hours.

Find all of my video tutorials at: THE FELT HUB ON YOUTUBE

This ridiculously simple craft project can be completed, and displayed on your wall, in less than 3 hours! How amazing is that!

CHOOSING YOUR COLOUR COMBINATIONS FOR WINNING RESULTS

A colour palette is important for most art and craft projects – it helps to set the mood and tone of your work, and can also be used to create a cohesive look. When you are choosing a colour palette, it’s important to think about what mood you want to convey. Do you want your work to be calm and serene, or bold and vibrant? Once you’ve decided on the overall feel of your project, you can start choosing specific colours. If you’re unsure where to start, a good place is with a limited palette of just a few colours. This will help you to focus on working with a specific range of hues, and also give your work a more unified look. As you become more comfortable with working with different colours, you can start experimenting with different palettes, adding in new shades and tones as you go. Ultimately, the best way to choose a colour palette is to follow your instincts and go with whatever feels right for you and your work.

For this no fuss, DIY boho wall hanging, I picked out lovely muted colours – wool, ribbon and beads – with a calming feel but soon realised that a pop of colour was needed to give the project a lift. A bright mustard colour turned out to be perfect for the job and really brings the piece to life! It’s amazing how such a small change can make such a big difference. If you’re ever feeling stuck with a project, add a pop of colour and see how it transforms your work!

GATHER YOUR WOOL AND FIBRE STASH TOGETHER

I have used a selection of wool tops, wool yarn, silk ribbon, beads, glass, cotton rope, and driftwood; although any old branch from the garden or walk will do.

SUSTAINABLE CRAFTS – REUSE AND RECYCLE

I love finding new ways to reuse and recycle materials that I already have on hand for my DIY craft projects. Not only is it budget friendly, but it also reduces the amount of waste I produce. For this wall hanging, I used wool tops and yarn that were left over from other projects, as well as beads and glass that I found in charity shops and my old costume jewellery that I used to wear a million years ago, well it seems that way… I love how this easy wall hanging came together with materials that might otherwise have been discarded. It’s a great reminder that even everyday items can be turned into something beautiful if we just use a little creativity.

CLICK FOR MORE SUSTAINABLE WOOL CRAFTS

TAKE THE CREATIVITY OUTSIDE

Crafting outside is a surefire way to lift your mood and what could be better than crafting outdoors on a beautiful spring day? The sunshine and fresh air are sure to lift your mood, and the relaxed atmosphere will help you to get in touch with your creative side. So, as it was a sunny Spring day here in blighty I thought I would make the most of it and take the creativity into the garden. The craft project I was working on was a simple one, but it was so satisfying to be able to complete it while surrounded by nature. I felt so much happier and more relaxed after spending some time crafting outside, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a mood boost.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

GETTING STARTED IS OFTEN THE HARDEST PART

Starting your project is often the hardest part, and I spent quite a lot of time pondering about design when really I just needed to get stuck in! I decided to stop pontificating (I love that word!) and start with a simple base of cotton rope, the kind you would use in macramé. However, any yarn, or even fabric strips would look just as good. The trick is to just start. After that it is a breeze! Once you have your base material, simply start adding your materials. You can make whatever pattern you like, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. I went for the ‘less is more’ approach as my temptation is to behave like a toddler decorating the Christmas tree. That said, if that’s your preference then you go for it! The key is to have fun and be creative. Just let your imagination run wild, and before you know it you will have created a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Simple cotton rope backdrop mounted on a piece of driftwood

ET VOILA!

I love the finished result which, combined with the driftwood and soft tropical colours, is giving me summer vibes; something we can only hope for here in blighty. All in all it took around three hours. This included gathering of materials plus an hour of faffing, pondering, and trimming time. I am thrilled with the finished result and I love the boho, chilled, beachy look. The cotton rope backdrop is perfect and plaiting some of the lovely wool tops adds more interest and texture. I hope you enjoyed reading about the process and it has inspired you to try this project for yourself. This project was so much fun to do and I love how it turned out. The contrast of the white cotton against the colorful wool tops is beautiful, and the texture of the rope adds an interesting dimension. It’s exactly the look I was going for and I can’t wait to hang this up in my home and enjoy the relaxed, beachy vibe it creates. SEE MORE TUTORIALS IN THE FELT HUB ON YOUTUBE!

NO MORE ‘MEH’

We all know how good it feels to escape into a creative project every now and again. It’s a wonderful way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax into a slower pace for a few hours. And, best of all, when you’re finished you have a beautiful piece to show for your efforts. The result was exactly what I hoped for: a beautiful, no-stress wall hanging that makes me feel good every time I look at it. If you’re feeling in need of a creative escape, why not give this project a try? You might just find that it’s exactly what you needed.

P.S. YOU CAN BUY THE COMPLETE WALL HANGING KIT HERE

HAVE YOU TRIED NEEDLE FELTING?

If you haven’t tried needle felting, you’re in for a treat! This amazing craft is perfect for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and I have been teaching this craft since 2014! Needle felting is extremely versatile – you can use it to create all sorts of stunning artwork, from animal sculptures, to jewellery, to home décor. No sewing or tricky patterns plus, needle felting is a great way to relax and de-stress. And there’s no need to worry about being short on ideas, either – this blog is jam-packed with needle felting tutorials, tips, and tricks. So what are you waiting for? Click HERE for the menus on this blog and get started on your needle felting journey today!

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 Easy Needle Felting Projects For Spring And Easter

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As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to get your creative juices flowing. And what better way to do that than by learning a new crafting skill? I have for you, 5 easy needle felting projects for spring and Easter, perfect for beginners or just some relaxing creative down time. So whether you’re looking to learn how to bunny or bumble bee brooch or a springtime wreath or garland, I’ve got you covered. So get ready to let your imagination run wild and have some fun with these easy needle felting video tutorials!

NEEDLE FELTING KITS

Spring and Easter needle felting kits are available HERE on the Lincolnshire Fenn Crafts website.

Bumble Bee Brooch
Easter Bunny Brooch
Spring garland

5 QUICK AND EASY NEEDLE FELTING PROJECTS

Short on time? Well, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced needle felter, there’s something here for everyone. Grab your wool and felting needles and felt along with me. These step by step video tutorials make it easy peasy and you can adapt each project for fabulous spring and Easter décor or lovely gifts for your favourite people. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

VIDEO TUTORIALS

NEEDLE FELTED BUMBLE BEE BROOCH – MAKE TIME ONE HOUR

NEEDLE FELTED BUNNY BROOCH – MAKE TIME ONE HOUR

EASY NEEDLE FELTED MUSHROOMS – MAKE TIME 30 MINUTES

YUMMY NEEDLE FELTED MACARONS – MAKE TIME 15 MINUTES

EASY NEEDLE FELTED BALL IN 3 MINUTES

HOW TO NEEDLE FELT A HEDGEHOG – EASY STEP BY STEP GUIDE!

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Hedgehogs are a much rarer sight in our gardens than they used to be and I remember my dad getting my 11 year old self, and younger brother out of bed at midnight to see a visiting hedgehog in our garden. What a treat and such cherished memories! Whilst you may not see the real thing very often, at least you can have your own handmade hoglet to keep you company all year round. So, I present my needle felted version of our beloved hedgehog and how using a reverse felting needle creates fabulous spikey details.

Did You Know?

Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant so bread and milk is not good for them! Find out what they really love to eat on The Woodland Trust blog at the bottom of this post.

Skill level: Complete beginners and beyond
Make time: 1 hour

Time to settle down with creativity, a cuppa, maybe a slice of cake, and join me for a full tutorial teaching you new needle felting tips, tricks and techniques.

VIDEO TUTORIAL AND MATERIALS LIST

You will need:

  • Grey wool top for body
  • Brown carded batting for top layer
  • Light brown wool top or carded for face
  • Darker wool for nose
  • Brown wool top for spikey halo
  • Standard/medium felting needle – I use a 38 star
  • Reverse felting needle for spikes – I use a 32 reverse
  • Glass beads for eyes
  • Felting mat
  • Enthusiasm

SHOP NEEDLE FELTING KIT– MAKES THREE COLIN HEDGEHOGS

Available from: LINCOLNSHIRE FENN CRAFTS  or  ETSY

If you want to encourage hedgehogs in your own garden here are a few guidelines from James Martin, content editor of the WOODLAND TRUST

What do hedgehogs eat, and how to feed them?

Evidence suggests this decline is most severe in rural areas and hedgehogs are actually faring better in our towns and villages than the countryside. This means gardens can be an important refuge for the species. One way you can help any visiting hogs is to provide some food. But what do hedgehogs eat and what should you feed them?

FOOD FIT FOR A HEDGEHOG

Insects and other invertebrates are the hedgehog’s main natural food source. A typical diet includes:

  • Beetles
  • Earwigs
  • Caterpillars
  • Earthworms
  • Millipedes
  • Fly larvae

What to feed hedgehogs?

As opportunistic eaters, hedgehogs will readily consume food left out in your garden. The best foods to provide are:

  • Meat-based cat or dog food
  • Specially-made hedgehog food
  • Cat biscuits

As well as providing food, you can put out a shallow dish of water to ensure any visiting hogs stay hydrated.

What not to feed hedgehogs

The following foods should be avoided when feeding hedgehogs:

  • Bread and milk (hogs are lactose intolerant so milk can make them ill. Bread has little nutritional value)
  • Mealworms (thought to cause health problems when eaten in large quantities)

Read the full blog at THE WOODLAND TRUST

Workshop Creativity

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

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
JOIN THE FELT HUB GROUP ON FACEBOOK

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

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!

FREE NEEDLE FELTING WORKSHOPS LIVE ON FACEBOOK!

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DATES FOR YOU FESTIVE CREATIVE DIARY!

Tomorrow and Friday evening I will be holding two free, live workshops on my Facebook page to kick off a month of Christmas creativity. 

Thursday 25th, 7pm (GMT) – Christmas Wreath And Garland

Friday 26th, 7pm (GMT) – Pointy Eared Gnome In A Dome

Each session will be 60-90 minutes GMT time. Just turn up with your wool, felting needles and a cuppa and we will have a natter and some ‘us’ time.

Materials list and details are on my FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE.

DON’T HAVE FACEBOOK?
No problem as I will pop them on YouTube after the event.

TOMORROW NIGHT – CHRISTMAS WREATH AND GARLAND

Make Christmas handmade and create this impressively stylish and seasonal Christmas wreath or garland, with realistic needle felted dried orange and lemon slices, chillies, and finished off with a beautiful lush red wool bow! You can even add your own pom poms to the garland as an extra special touch.
New to needle felting? Don’t worry because I’m going to walk you through it all as we go. After this workshop you’ll be ready for any holiday crafting projects! Bring your own wool stash, or order the wool bundles and kits over on the WEBSITE

FRIDAY NIGHT – CUTE AND QUIRKY POINTY EARED GNOME

A fabulously quirky and unique Christmas decoration for you to make.
These are great for decorating your home during the holidays or as gifts. You’ll learn basic needle felting techniques plus my quick wins for making your finished gnome look like it came from a cute craft shop, but for a fraction of the price. Join me live and have fun crafting your own handmade decoration that is eco-friendly and will have pride of place year after year. It also looks great in a dome with fairy lights. Bring your own wool stash, or order the wool bundles and kits over on the WEBSITE

P.S.VISIT MY FACEBOOK EVENTS PAGE FOR YOUR MATERIALS LIST OR THE WEBSITE FOR YOUR WORKSHOPS PACK
FACEBOOK EVENTS PAGE
WORKSHOP PACKS

HOW TO NEEDLE FELT A FESTIVE WREATH AND GARLAND?

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CREATE THE CHRISTMAS WOW FACTOR!

This Christmas why not try making your own festive wreath and garland?

It never ceases to amaze me what you can create with felting wool and a felting needle??? My latest tutorial is this stunning needle felted Christmas wreath and garland; my take on the traditional dried fruit and chilli garlands we see each year. It’s like magic – a pinch of this, a wisp of that, and a tiny sup song of whatever takes your fancy, throw in a cookie cutter, and a wooden BBQ skewer and et voila!

MAKE YOUR OWN SUSTAINABLE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS!

I love this idea for a festive door decoration. The bright colours of the needle felted fruit and chillies are so cheerful, and would definitely bring a smile to your guests as they come through your front door.
This is such an easy project to do and, although it does take time and patience, the results are beyond worth it! It’s actually really satisfying seeing the fruits take shape before your eyes as you needle felt them layer by layer. You can use different types of wool depending on what effect you’d like to achieve. What’s more, they can be displayed proudly, year after year, are natural, sustainable, and completely biodegradable.

This is a step-by-step tutorial and, if you’re new to needle felting, don’t worry because I’m going to walk you through it all as we go. After this post you’ll be ready for any holiday crafting projects!

DO YOU NEED THE WOOL BUNDLE OR KIT?

If you don’t have the wool or needles you can find them here, on the Lincolnshire Fenn Craft website. I have carefully curated my favourite wools to give you the best possible result.

HAVE ALL THE FELTING GEAR? THEN HERE’S YOUR MATERIALS LIST.

YOU WILL NEED:

  • Seasonal wool tops and carded wool for your oranges, lemons and chillies.
  • Forest green and Christmas red wool top/roving.
  • BBQ skewer for shaping your chillies. 
  • Polystyrene hoop for wreath
  • Length of wool yarn for threading your garland
  • Round cookie cutter or similar; ideal for perfectly round slices. However, I will also show you how to make them free hand.

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STYLE IDEA

Imagine this combination as the centre piece to your fireplace, and how realistic does that fruit look?

VIDEO TUTORIAL

I have split the video tutorial into three easy to follow parts. Hope you love it as much as I did. Subscribe to my YOUTUBE channel for instant notification of new tutorials!

Happy festive felting!

DIY Gnome On A Stick – Easy Tutorial

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Using a BBQ skewer, or chop stick, as a needle felting tool makes many needle felting projects a whole lot easier, and faster to complete. It is also a great aid for creating symmetry, especially when it comes to legs and feet. It is the tool that no self respecting needle felter should be without, whether it’s your first needle felting project or your twentieth. Even better, you will probably find one, or both, at the bottom of your kitchen drawer, along with the sandwich toaster and vegetable juicer…

IT’S AN EASY TUTORIAL

This gnome on a stick is easy to make and the solid hat means you can really go to town on the embellishments without spoiling the shape. Simple embroidery adds another creative and effective element. Time to make: 60-90 minutes. Beginners and perfectionists add on another 30 minutes.

You will need:

  • Carded wool or wool top (AKA roving) for the hat, body and nose; I am using carded wool for both.
  • Felting needle – size 38 (or medium) is a good all rounder.
  • Wooden BBQ skewer or chop stick; metal is too slippery for the wool to hold onto.
  • Felting mat: Foam, hessian or wool
  • For the beard use wool tops, curly wool or knitting yarn
  • Embellishments or embroidery thread for decoration

Needle felting tools and accessories can be found HERE if you are just starting out.

TOP TIPS BEFORE YOU START!

  • Needles are sharp so keep your fingers out of the way. If in doubt, use finger protectors. Not suitable for young children and older children should be supervised at all times.
  • When working around your stick avoid hitting the wood with your needle as it could break. Working at a diagonal angle will help avoid this.
  • Keep the wool firm as you wrap, using thin lengths of wool, and take your time to build it into a cone shape. If your wool is too bulky you will struggle to get a nice smooth shape.
  • If you start to loose the shape, simply unwind a little wool and do it again.
  • Enjoy yourself and, if it’s your first project, go easy on yourself; you are only on chapter 1 so don’t compare yourself to others who are on chapter 5.

There is no end to the style of gnomes you can create and how gorgeous are these visions in pink and raspberry! I love the impact created by these simple embroidered snowflakes against the bold raspberry colour.

EMBROIDERED SNOWFLAKES

Embroidered snowflakes are super simple! Just thread a large needle with yarn and criss cross four straight lines until you have a seven pointed star. They can also be needle felted on.

TOP TIP: Keep the yarn loose so as not to sistort the shape of the snowflake.

HAT AND BODY

1 Wrap your wool around the stick and felt into place

2-4 Continue to wrap and felt until you have covered half of your stick, longer if you want a bigger hat.

5-6 Continue to wrap and felt to secure

7 Continue to build the shape but don’t take the wool to the tip bas you want to create a cone shape.

8-9 Create your shape along the stick by using your needle at a diagonal angle.

10 Widen the base as you felt; mine is approx. 6cm diameter

11-12 Create the body the same way but aim for a barrel shape approx. 6cm in height, slightly narrower at the top and wider at the base for stability.

13-14 Remove from the stick and continue to shape and firm

15 Create a cavity at the base of the hat for the body to sit in.

16 Narrow the top, if necessary, by felting at a diagonal angle from the top towards the base.

17-18 Pop some fresh wool on the top of the body and felt into the hat.

19-20 Now felt through the hat and into the top of the body, until it is held firmly.

NOSE

21 Wrap the end of a small piece of wool firmly around your wooden skewer, aiming for a short oval shape.

22 Continue to wrap the wool around the stick (no need to use your needle yet) and use your thumb and finger to stop it from moving down the stick and becoming too long. Felt a little to secure but leave the ends slightly loose. TOP TIP: Don’t forget to keep it tight as this will create a great shape. Make it any size you want.

23 Check you are happy with the size and shape.

24 Remove from the stick and felt each side (where you left the wool loose) just under the brim of the hat.

25 It needs to be a good size as it will soon disappear under the beard, so if it’s too small it will look lost.

BEARD

26-28 Felt the beard wool or locks just under the brim of the hat. This will keep it looking neat.

29 Add in more colour if you want to.

30-31 You can create a beard at the front or, as I have done, create a full skirt all the way around the hat.

Et voila! Leave it simple or add embellishments. I have wrapped wool yarn around this one and created a loose pom pom at the top. Now go forth and make more gnomes; it would be rude not to and they always look better in twos, threes, fours…😉

Autumn Wreath DIY Tutorial

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Create stylish autumn/fall décor with this beautiful DIY needle felted autumn/fall wreath which is incredibly easy to make, and ideal for any ability. Super easy needle felted pumpkins and acorns will make this project a breeze, even for the most nervous of beginners. See below for video tutorial, materials list, wool bundles and kit.

MATERIALS LIST:

  • Seasonal wool tops and carded wool for your pumpkins and acorns
  • Acorn caps
  • Wooden skewer for shaping acorns
  • Natural jute ribbon
  • Natural vine wreath
  • Felting mat and needles

SHOP PATTERN, WOOL AND KIT

P Is For Pastel Pumpkins

Pretty pastel pumpkins are a lovely alternative to the traditional colour scheme and this cool wool palette is perfect for winter décor.

Watch The Video Tutorial

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kxUWnxhEaA&t=519s

Have a question?

ASK ME ANYTHING

I love questions so feel free to message me!