DIY Network

Needle-Felted Flowers These felted flowers are versatile projects: they can be used as jewelry, as curtain tiebacks or as decorating elements. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-123

We learn to create very versatile flowers with Rebecca Lavell. She starts by needling a freeform shape, connecting it into a large flower and wet-felting it to give the large petal support. Next Rebecca uses the same technique to create a giant leaf to combine with her flower and finishes by connecting them. These flowers can be used as decorations, napkin rings and curtain tiebacks.

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Materials:

Needle-Felted Flower

foam work surface
36-gauge felting needles
multi-needle tools (optional)
several ounces feltable fiber (having a variety of little bits is great)
beads and buttons (optional)
large and small sewing needles
thread
scissors
straight pins or safety pins

Directions are for felted flowers approximately 4"-6" long.

Safety tip: Always work on the foam work surface to avoid injury.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

1. On the work surface, lay out 3 layers of separated fibers in an approximate triangle.

2. Using a single needle, begin to needle the fiber until it starts to hold together, leaving the edges loose (figure A).

3. Remove from the work surface and fold over a small piece of foam to form a funnel shape (figure B).

4. Using a multi-needle tool, continue to needle-felt, removing the foam and turning frequently.

Note: You may add fiber embellishments at any time during this process.

5. Continue to felt until the flower is firm.

6. Lay out a leaf shape on the work surface and needle-felt until hard, remembering to lift off the foam frequently.

7. Wrap the bottom of the leaf around the bottom of the needle-felted flower and felt until firm (figure C).

8. When the flower is complete, you can add your choice of embellishments: a brooch, a barrette finding, beads, thread, buttons; or a cord to make a curtain tieback.

Needle-felt the seam of the flower to help it hold its shape.

To make a flower pin, simply stitch a pin-back onto the stem.

RESOURCES :

Foam work surface
Website: www.hookedonfelt.com

Fiber, needles and multi-needle tools
We apologize no contact information is available.

GUESTS :

Rebecca Lavell
We apologize no contact information is available.