DIY Network

Freeform Afghan Smaller felted pieces, or modules, combine to make a unique afghan. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-157

Rebecca Lavell creates a freeform throw with varying shapes and sizes of felt, each piece with its own design.

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	Freeform Afghan
	Freeform Afghan: detail

Materials:

foam work surface
36-gauge felting needles
multineedle tools (optional)
1 lb. feltable fiber in mixed colors
yarns of varied thicknesses and textures (remnants and leftovers are fine)
beads and buttons (optional)
large and small sewing needles
crochet hook
scissors
straight pins or safety pins

Directions are for a small afghan, approximately 3'x4'; the size can be varied easily by adding or subtracting pieces.

Note: Always work on the foam work surface to avoid injury.

Making Modules

1. Separate staple lengths of fiber and lay them in a crosshatching direction to make 3 layers; you're aiming for an organic shape. Holding the needle at a perpendicular angle, begin to poke the fiber all over until it begins to form a solid mass. Use other colors of fiber and pieces of yarn to create a design on the piece. Continue to poke again until the design is part of the mass.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

2. At this point, begin to use a multineedle tool and continue to poke the fiber (figure A). Pull the piece up gently from the foam, flip and replace again and continue working. Flipping the work from time to time stops it from adhering permanently to the foam.

3. When the piece is firmly felted, you can add buttons or beads, if you wish.

4. Continue making many pieces until you have created enough to lay out an afghan of the size you want.

Layout

1. On a large, flat surface lay out the pieces to form a pleasing combination (figure B).

2. Pin sections together in a manageable size, usually 4-5 pieces

Joining

1. Using yarns that are varied (figure C), join the pieces in the sections with a variety of stitches such as blanket stitch or overstitch. You can also add beads at this point, if you wish, and use crochet to fill in blank spots between the organic shapes (figure D).

2. When the individual sections are joined, repeat the process, joining the sections to create the afghan.

Embellishment

There are many possibilities for embellishment:

• Add a yarn fringe in some areas, enhancing the organic shape of the piece.

• Create felt beads by needle-felting little pieces of fiber; then string them on a fringe or use them in spaces between pieces.

  Sew on buttons or beads.
  
  

• Needle-felt long snakes or dreadlocks and sew them on as a fringe.

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.