When my daughter asked for a lamb for her birthday, we didn’t stop at just one…we brought home four! That little flock, raised right next to Bear Creek on our farm just a few miles outside Fort Ransom, sparked a chain of events I never could have imagined—and ultimately led to the creation of Bear Creek Felting.
Our early felting sessions were nothing short of a family spectacle. Picture a huge couch cushion spread out in the living room, the whole family gathered around, poking and shaping wool together for hours. Wool flew, needles clicked, and laughter filled the room as we all learned the craft. Even the boys, who eventually lost interest after a few pokes too many, and Libbie, who turned back to knitting when I started showing more improvement, couldn’t stop the fun. Those long, cozy felting sessions laid the foundation for what Bear Creek Felting is today.
Our first wool harvest was a mix of trial and error, learning as we went, and lots of laughter along the way. There were plenty of mistakes, but also a deep sense of satisfaction and excitement as I realized we could make something wonderful from our own wool. And then it happened—I sold one! That first sale ignited a passion that has only grown stronger with time.
One sale turned into five. Five turned into a new dishwasher. That turned into family vacations. And before I knew it, we were fully immersed in this adventure, building a business that combines family, creativity, and hard work—all starting from a simple birthday wish and a tiny flock of sheep.
Today, all of my felting kits, supplies, and creations are made at Bear Creek Felting, located on Main Street in Fort Ransom. Here, I process every ounce of wool myself, from our farm to finished product. Our premium felting wool, now crossed with other breeds to make it even better, is completely unique—you won’t find it anywhere else. Every kit carries the care, quality, and love that comes from knowing it from pasture to your hands.
If you’ve never tried needle felting—or tried and gave up—here are my top 5 tips for beginners:
1. Use the Right Wool
Our premium felting wool is soft, strong, and perfect for creating smooth, firm, one-of-a-kind figures. You won’t get the same results with generic wool—you can feel the difference from the first poke!
2. Start Small
Needle felting is incredibly rewarding, but it requires patience. Begin with a small beginner project or kit, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy the process.
3. Use Your Needle Correctly to avoid breakage
The right technique makes all the difference. Be mindful: pulling or moving wool with the tip of the needle can cause breakage. But felting firmly and consistently—poking straight into the wool—won’t break your needles and gives the best results. Also keep your eyes on your work to avoid poking your fingers with the needle.
4. Match Needle Size to Your Wool
For our wool, 36 Cross Star and 38 Cross Star needles are perfect for building a tight, firm felt that holds beautifully.
5. Felt Firmly and Patiently
What I say most often during classes and retreats is, “It needs more felting.” Many beginners rush, leaving pieces floppy or fuzzy. Take your time, layer the wool, and poke thoroughly. The process requires patience, but the results—a smooth, solid creation—are worth every minute.
From Bear Creek Felting, I’ve watched beginners grow into confident makers, discovering the same joy that started with a birthday wish and a tiny flock of sheep.
So if a little one is dreaming of a lamb—or you’re ready to try something new—grab some wool, pick up a needle, and enjoy every minute. At Bear Creek Felting, we’re here to make it fun, rewarding, and truly magical.
Happy Felting!
—Teresa
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