Needle Felting for Beginners - Newark Buttermarket - Adult Learning

This six-week course introduces needle felting with simple 2D projects inspired by nature and sustainability.

You’ll learn basic felting skills by making items such as an autumn leaf door hanger, decorative patches for mending or upcycling, and other nature-inspired designs.

During the course, we will focus on a range of needle felting techniques to create nature-inspired textile art. These will include shaping and layering wool fibres, blending colours for simple landscapes, and adding fine details using different felting methods. Projects will include a leaf-shaped door hanger, a felted nature scene, and a hoop art picture featuring a bee surrounded by flowers.

In the final sessions, learners will design and create their own floral composition using the techniques they’ve built up week by week. We will also explore sustainable approaches by encouraging the use of reclaimed wool, scraps, and visible mending to promote creative re-use.

Each session will begin with a short demonstration followed by guided support as learners develop their own pieces in a friendly and relaxed setting. You will learn how to use felting needles safely, shape and attach wool fibres, build texture and depth, and combine colours confidently. Inspiration will be drawn from natural themes, and there will be opportunities for learners to personalise their projects with guidance and support.

What you will need to bring to the course:

Medium Gauge Felting Needle (a couple of spares may be useful as they can break).

A Felting Mat – There are many different types, this is down to the makers preference, however a cheap starter option is a car cleaning sponge. You could also use upholstery foam.

A small selection of felting wool in natural colours of your choice.

1 or 2 twelve-inch square pieces of felt in autumnal colours.

An old woolen item that is either damaged in need of repair or needs updating for week 2.

A beginner’s guide to needle felting by Susanna Wallis which can be borrowed from Inspire libraries.

Optional extras:

You may wish to buy a punch style needle felting tool with multiple needles – this will speed up the process of felting.

Any scraps of wool or felt you may have left over from previous crafting projects.

A wooden embroidery hoop for week 4 (optional if you would like to frame a piece of work)