Let’s see, there’s felting, knitting, and crocheting, basket weaving and quilting—jeesh, there are so many different crafts out there, you probably haven’t even heard of half of them!

Crafting is such a fulfilling hobby, but it can also become a big commitment. After all, you have to source materials and tools, carve out time to dedicate to your projects, and of course, actually learn the techniques of the trade.

However, if you’re ready to learn a new craft, and have no idea which one is right for you, you’re in the right place! While every craft has its own unique qualities, things like cost and difficulty could affect your decision.

Needle felting brings so much to so many people! But you don’t have to take my word for it. Have a look for yourself!

Cost

To start needle felting, all you’ll need is a bit of patience, a few felting needles, a felting cushion or pillow, and wool! You can source your pieces at the local craft store, hunt the internet for a good deal, or simply buy a needle felting starter kit that has everything you need.

For around $20, you can start working on your first project. Compared to knitting or crocheting projects that often require yards and yards of yarn, needle felting is a pretty affordable hobby. You shouldn’t have to break the bank when doing something you love, and with needle felting, you don’t have too!

Experience

Have you or your child ever tried to play an instrument like the violin or saxophone? Unlike the piano, it takes an excruciatingly long time for the sound emitting from the instrument to actually sound good.

Well, needle felting is kind of like the piano. Instead of waiting for months or years until you’re able to progress and do projects that you can show friends and family, you can create pieces you’re proud of at the very beginning! With needle felting, there is less of a learning curve.

Because of this, it’s a fantastic craft to introduce to the little ones. As long as they understand how to safely use their needles (with adult supervision of course), they’re good to go! Nights spent sitting behind tech devices can quickly transform to family evenings around the craft table.

Creativity

Are you one for coloring outside of the lines, living loud, and being imaginative? Needle felting is most certainly for you! Sure, there are techniques, tips, and tricks in needle felting, but for the most part, the sky’s the limit.

Shape lifelike critters and display them for all to see, add needle felted embellishments to your favorite Merino wool cardigan, craft a felt bouquet for a quirky bride-to-be or design holiday keepsakes that the entire family will cherish—the choice is entirely up to you!

Sustainability

Sustainable practices are sweeping the craft community—and for a good reason! Now more than ever, needle felters are encouraged to not only shop locally for their crafting supplies, but also to consider where and how their wool is sourced.

Wool is a compostable and biodegradable material that’s a whole lot better for our planet than the synthetic textiles that end up polluting our aquatic ecosystems. Grazing sheep can also help improve soil quality, isolate carbon from the atmosphere, and allow the land to retain water.

As long as you’re purchasing your high-quality wool from ethically sourced producers, you can rest easy knowing that your crafting isn’t harming the sheep or our precious environment!

Now that you know a little bit more about needle felting, what do you think? Is this the craft for you? We’d love to have you check out the Bear Creek Felting Academy!

With tips and techniques to help you every step of the way, you’ll be fully equipped to create beautiful pieces and memories that will last a lifetime. With a supportive community of felters and feedback from me, who knows what you’ll dream up!

If you’re ready to sit down and lose yourself in a crafting rhythm, click here!