Frequently Asked Questions

What is needle felting?

Needle felting is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Using special barbed needles (not sewing needles like I originally thought) you poke the fibre (most commonly wool) which tangles it up creating felt. The wool compresses a suprising amount which gives great scope for sculpting. The more you poke the firmer and more in the area will be. The fewer pokes the looser it’ll be. I like to have my pieces fairly firm, so I tend to add more wool in places I want to stick out more rather than felting them less and having them loose.

What is spun cotton?

Spun cotton in this sense is a bit like paper mache but with fluffy cotton instead. Using something as a base (for my mushrooms I use a bit of cardboard and some wire) you wrap cotton around to create a form and glue it down. You can add layers to build up the shape. Once the glue is on you can sculpt the pieces a little more.

Spun cotton ornaments were common in Victorian Germany.

How do I care for needle felting?

The best way to care for your felted pieces is by giving them a light dusting and spot cleaning with a damp cloth if necessary. Because they’re made of wool be mindful of moths too.

How long does it take?

Needle felting isn’t a quick craft, but it’s not the slowest either. My sheep are pretty quick, taking around an hour and a half each. I’ve worked on pieces that have taken over 24 hours, and I know of some felters who take months to complete a piece!

What happened to your voice?

In February 2023 I lost the ability to talk. It took a little while, but I’ve since been diagnosed with situation mutism. I had a while where I couldn’t talk at all, but thankfully now I am usually able to talk at home around my partner, and occasionally with other people. I may be able to regain some more of my ability to talk and I may not.

I’ve been told I’m very expressive which helps with communicating. I can type things on my AAC app, or write things down too. My partner and I have been learning Auslan which has been wonderful. We’re somewhat self taught so we aren’t great, but we know enough to be able to sign with each other and other Auslan users. We’re both hoping to learn Auslan properly soon as it’s my main method of communication when he’s around. I’m so grateful to Robbie for interpreting what I’m saying so often. I’m also grateful to the Deaf community for being so welcoming, encouraging, and willing to share their beautiful language.