Felt Like a Pro with These Must-Have Needle Felting Tools
Needle felting is a fun and satisfying craft that produces beautiful results. With just a few specialized tools and some practice, you can create stunning felted sculptures, jewelry, decorations, and more. Here is an overview of the basic supplies every beginner should have to start needle felting like a pro.
Needles
Needle felting requires special barbed needles that catch and tangle the wool fibers as you repeatedly poke the needle into the wool. The most common types are:
- Single Needles - Good for detail work and smaller projects. Come in different gauge sizes - higher numbers are thinner.
- Needle Tool - Several needles mounted in a handle, used for broader felting.
Aim for a 36-42 gauge needle for versatility. You'll need several single needles for detail work. Needle tools come in 3, 5 or 7 needle options.
Wool
The best wool for felting is pure wool that has not been treated to prevent shrinking. Look for these types:
- Roving - Loose, untwisted strands of carded wool fibers. Available in different weights.
- Felting Batts - Light, gauzy sheets of carded wool fibers.
- Neps - Small tangles of wool roving. Add texture.
Merino and Corriedale wools are soft choices with shorter fibers that felt quickly. Get an assortment of colors for blending and accents.
Felting Foam Pad
A foam pad provides a safe surface to felt on and protects your work surface. They have small holes to collect debris. Look for 2-3 inch thickness. You can also use a sliver of foam from a yoga mat.
Additional Handy Tools
- Bubble wrap - Makes imprints and textures.
- Mesh bag - For agitating projects.
- Resist materials - Plastic, craft wire, yarn - Causes separation between layers.
With quality needles, wool roving, a felting pad, and a few other handy tools, you'll be ready to start needle felting. Take your time practicing the techniques, and you'll be creating impressive felted works of art in no time!
What You Need to Know Before You Start Needle Felting
Needle felting is a fun, mesmerizing craft that allows you to transform wool fibers into 3D shapes and sculptures using special barbed needles. Before you jump into your first felting project, here are some key things to know about this addictive hobby.
How It Works
In needle felting, you take loose wool roving or batting and use the barbs on the needles to tangle and compact the fibers together. Repeatedly stabbing the wool causes the fibers to bind together, creating felted fabric and forms.
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Watch for Needle Injuries
Felting needles are extremely sharp, so be very careful not to stab yourself. Never point a needle towards any part of your body and keep your non-needling hand away from the needle tip. Focus on accuracy, not speed.
The Tools You Need
To get started, you'll need:
- Felting needles - Single needles and/or a needle tool with multiple needles
- Wool roving or batts in your desired colors
- Felting foam pad
Optional tools include bubble wrap, a mesh bag, and resist materials like plastic or wire.
Technique Takes Time
When you first begin felting, your projects will likely be lumpy and loosely formed as you learn how to properly wedge and cross-hatch the needles. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing. Over time, you will improve your technique.
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The Felting Process
These are the basic steps to felt wool:
- Form the wool shape
- Repeatedly stab into it with the needle
- Work across the entire surface, flipping periodically
- Rinse, shape, and let dry
Resist the urge to over-work one area. Move across the whole piece evenly.
Be Gentle When Rinsing
When ready to rinse, avoid agitation. Gently run cool water over your project. Shape it with your hands as desired. Lay flat to dry.
Start Small
Try starting with basic shapes like balls, cubes or hearts. Mini animal figurines, flowers and jewelry also make good first projects.
Have Fun!
Relax, be creative, and enjoy the process. Needle felting is therapeutic and meditative. Don't worry about perfection. With a little patience and the right tools, you'll be hooked in no time.
Now that you know the basics, grab some wool and get ready to felt. It’s highly addictive! What will you make first?
Beginner's Guide to Needle Felting Supplies
Just getting started with the wonderful world of needle felting? Here is a guide to the basic supplies every beginner needs to get crafting.
Needles
Needle felting requires special barbed needles that tangle and mesh the wool fibers as you repeatably poke them. The main options are:
- Single needles - Good for detail work, come in different sizes based on gauge
- Needle tools - Multiple needles mounted in a handle, used for broader felting
For beginners, a 36-40 gauge single needle is a good standard size. You'll also want a 3 or 5 needle tool. Having both types gives you versatility.
Wool for Felting
Look for wool that is 100% pure wool and has not been treated to prevent shrinking. Here are the main types:
- Roving - Loose, untwisted strands of carded wool fibers. Varying thicknesses.
- Batts - Thin, gauzy sheets of carded wool fibers.
- Neps - Small tangles of roving wool. Add texture.
Merino and Corriedale wools have short fibers that felt quickly. Get an assortment of colors for blending and accents.
Felting Pad
A felting pad provides a safe surface to needle felt on. The small holes collect debris. Options include:
- Felting foam - 2-3 inches thick recommended
- Sliver of foam yoga mat
- Felt sheet
Extra Handy Tools
Here are some optional extras that are nice to have:
- Bubble wrap - Makes imprints and textures
- Mesh bag - For agitating projects
- Resist materials - Wire, plastic, yarn - Creates separation between layers
Other Useful Supplies
Some other good starter supplies include:
- Old towel - For drying freshly rinsed projects
- Containers - For holding wool roving
- Embroidery needles - For attaching embellishments
- Fabric scissors - To trim wool fibers
Kits
Needle felting kits provide all the supplies you need to get started on a specific project, like an animal figurine. They are a handy way to get essential tools and wool.
Other Tips
- Buy extra roving wool in colors you love
- Get needles in multiple sizes for versatility
- Store wool properly to avoid moths
- Work on a portable project tray for easy cleanup
With quality needles, wool roving, a felting pad, and a few extras, you'll be ready to start your felting journey! What will you make first?
The Best Needle Felting Kits for Newbies
Just starting out with needle felting and not sure what supplies you need? A beginner kit contains all the essential tools and materials to learn the basics. Here are some of the best options for needle felting newbies.
Clover Needle Felting Starter Kit
Clover is a top brand for quality needle felting tools. Their starter kit includes:
- Single 38 gauge felting needle
- 3 needle tool with 5 mm needles
- Needle threader/wool holder tool
- 2 oz Corriedale wool roving
- Foam felting pad, 6 x 6 inches
With versatile needles, wool roving, and a felting pad, this has everything a beginner needs. The handy wool holder prevents finger stabbing.
We Woolly Merino Wool Kit
This kit from We Woolly features premium Merino wool roving in an array of vibrant colors. It includes:
- 36 and 38 gauge felting needles
- Needle tool with 5 needles
- 8 oz Merino wool roving in 15 colors
- Foam felting pad, 9 x 6 inches
With the generous amount of superior Merino wool, you can make endless projects. The color selection offers tons of options.
Ohhio Bravo Crafts Needle Felting Kit
Fun for kids and adults alike, this affordable kit from Ohhio allows you to make a cute needle felted dog figure. It contains:
- Foam felting pad, 7 x 7 inches
- Multi-needle tool
- Wool roving in brown, white, black
- Dog figure template
- Needle threader
- Instructions
All the materials are conveniently packed in a handy tin box. Follow the guide to make an adorable felted puppy.
Schachenmayr Felting Kit
Another option with great basics is this kit from Schachenmayr. It includes:
- Single 38 gauge needle
- Needle tool with 7 needles
- 2 oz wool roving in assorted colors
- Foam pad, 7 x 7 inches
- Instructions
Schachenmayr's high-quality tools and selection of vibrant wool make this a wonderful starter set for needle felting newbies.
Any of these all-in-one kits takes the guesswork out of getting started. With the right needles, wool, and pad you'll be felting fabulous creations in no time!
Needle Felting for Fun and Profit: Supplies to Get You Started
Needle felting is an enjoyable hobby that can also provide extra income. With some quality supplies and practice, you can create beautiful felted items to sell. Here is what you need to begin needle felting for fun and profit.
Needles
The specialized needles used for felting have tiny barbs that tangle and mesh the wool fibers. You'll need:
- Single needles in a standard size like 36 or 38 gauge
- A multi-needle tool with 3, 5 or 7 needles
Having both types gives you the ability to felt fine details as well as larger areas. Purchase high-quality needles that will last through repeated use.
Wool Roving
Look for pure wool that hasn't been treated to prevent shrinking. Good options include:
- Merino - Very soft, excellent for clothing and accessories
- Corriedale - Affordable, versatile for any project
- Romeldale/CVM - Durable, good for items that need firmness
Have plenty of colors on hand for variety, blending, and accents. Consider buying in bulk for cost savings.
Felting Pad
A felting pad provides a safe surface for the sharp needles. Look for a 2-3 inch thick foam pad with small holes to collect debris. A large size allows room to work.
Extras for Enhanced Design
Optional tools that allow for unique effects include:
- Bubble wrap - Creates indented patterns
- Craft wire - Holds shapes, separates layers
- Mesh bag - For agitating projects
- Embroidery needles - Adds embellishments
Packaging Materials
To sell your needle felted items, you'll need materials to package and ship them. Useful supplies include:
- Tissue paper, wrapping paper
- Shipping boxes, padded envelopes
- Tags, stickers, thank you notes
With some high-quality needles, an array of wool roving, and a few key extras, you'll be set up for success in needle felting. Let your creativity flow as you make fabulous felt projects. Before you know it, you could be selling your pieces for fun and profit!
Choosing the Right Needle Felting Wool for Your Projects
One of the keys to creating beautiful needle felted pieces is choosing the right wool. The type of wool you use affects the finished texture, firmness, and quality of your work. Here is an overview of the major types of wool for needle felting and how to select the best option for your projects.
Sheep Breeds
Wool from certain breeds of sheep have fibers that are ideal for needle felting. Top choices include:
- Merino - Very soft, fine fibers felt quickly. Good for clothing, accessories.
- Corriedale - Affordable, all-purpose wool good for any project.
- Romeldale/CVM - Durable, more coarse fibers make firm finished items.
Types of Wool Prep
Wool roving and batting are the main forms used in needle felting. Each has advantages:
- Roving - Long strands or loose coils of carded wool fibers. Versatile, easy to shape.
- Batts - Thin, gauzy sheets of carded wool. Quick felting, good for flat items.
Blends
Wool can be blended with other fibers like silk or alpaca for unique properties. Some blends to look for:
- Merino/Silk - Extremely soft and lustrous.
- Merino/Nylon - Adds durability and stretch.
- Corriedale/Stellina - Shimmery blend with silk and angora.
Other Considerations
- Finer wools like Merino felt quicker, coarser wools make firmer finished pieces.
- Dyed wool has more limited color options, natural wool can be blended for endless shades.
- Some wools are not ideal for felting, like superwash Merino which resists shrinking.
Tips for Selection
- Touch samples of different wools to evaluate softness and quality.
- Read labels closely to understand fiber content and properties.
- Consider the end use and desired characteristics of your project.
- Buy small amounts first to test wools before investing in larger quantities.
With some knowledge about the major types of wool for felting, you can confidently choose the right fibers for your needle felting projects. Let the wool guide you to create stunning pieces!
Introduction To Needle Felting Supplies
Introduction to Needle Felting Supplies
Needle felting is a popular craft that involves transforming wool into 3D objects using a barbed needle. It has gained popularity in recent years, with little figurines and kits becoming widely available. This introduction will cover the basics of needle felting supplies and the steps involved in needle felting.
Here are the essential supplies you will need to begin your needle felting journey:
- Wool or Wool Roving: This is the main material used in needle felting. Wool roving is often preferred as it is easier to work with and comes in a variety of colors.
- Felting Needles: These specialized needles have sharp, barbed blades designed to agitate the wool fibers and create the felting effect. They come in different sizes and gauges for different projects.
- Cookie Cutters: These can be used as molds to shape the wool into specific designs. They are especially useful for creating flat pieces of felt.
- Felting Pad or Surface: A thick foam pad or sponge is used as a work surface to protect your fingers and provide a stable base for needle felting.
- Finger Protectors: Optional but recommended, finger protectors can be worn to prevent accidental needle pricks.
- Thin out the wool and place it inside a cookie cutter to create the desired shape.
- Insert the felting needle into the wool and pull it back out, repeating this motion all over the fiber and along the edges. The barbs on the needle will tangle the wool fibers together, creating a solid piece of felt.
- Flip the wool over and repeat step 2 to ensure both sides are evenly felted.
What Is The Difference Between Felting Needles And Regular Sewing Needles?
Introduction to Needle Felting Supplies
Needle felting is a popular craft that involves transforming wool into 3D objects using a barbed needle. It has gained popularity in recent years, with little figurines and kits becoming widely available. This introduction will cover the basics of needle felting supplies and the steps involved in needle felting.
Here are the essential supplies you will need to begin your needle felting journey:
- Wool or Wool Roving: This is the main material used in needle felting. Wool roving is often preferred as it is easier to work with and comes in a variety of colors.
- Felting Needles: These specialized needles have sharp, barbed blades designed to agitate the wool fibers and create the felting effect. They come in different sizes and gauges for different projects.
- Cookie Cutters: These can be used as molds to shape the wool into specific designs. They are especially useful for creating flat pieces of felt.
- Felting Pad or Surface: A thick foam pad or sponge is used as a work surface to protect your fingers and provide a stable base for needle felting.
- Finger Protectors: Optional but recommended, finger protectors can be worn to prevent accidental needle pricks.
Once you have gathered your supplies, you can follow these basic steps to needle felt:
- Thin out the wool and place it inside a cookie cutter to create the desired shape.
- Insert the felting needle into the wool and pull it back out, repeating this motion all over the fiber and along the edges. The barbs on the needle will tangle the wool fibers together, creating a solid piece of felt.
- Flip the wool over and repeat step 2 to ensure both sides are evenly felted.
This introduction focuses on the basics of needle felting for beginners, but there are various methods and techniques to explore as you gain more experience. Needle felting can be used to create fuzzy soft sculptures, flat images that can be turned into pins, patches, or decorations for clothing, and even fun little Christmas ornaments.
Remember to always work on a felting surface to avoid poking yourself, and have fun experimenting with different colors and designs using your needle felting supplies. Happy felting!
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What Types Of Wool Are Best For Needle Felting?
When it comes to needle felting, the type of wool you use can make a big difference in the outcome of your project. Here are some types of wool that are commonly used for needle felting:
Ultimately, the best type of wool for needle felting will depend on personal preference and the specific project you are working on. It is recommended to experiment with different types of wool to find the one that works best for you.
