February 25th, 2024

It's 2024, everyone. I'm displaying at Gallery 24, a local, non-profit artists collaborative. I've been a member for years, but haven't written about it much. I've got photos and paintings there, but I've really been into needle felting for the past year.

A couple things really got me hooked - it's relatively inexpensive to start, it's portable, it's something I can do while chatting with other people, and it's malleable.

You use roving wool, a felting needle, and something to lay your work on, typically a foam mat. That's really it, but of course you can get much more. I've got several sizes of needles, tools that use multiple needles, and different types of mats. I made some rice-filled canvas bags that work great to nestle a sculpture in as you work.

The needles are sharp and barbed and you will stab yourself. But you won't stab yourself nearly as much if you're work is laying on something that isn't your hand or leg.

As you pass the needle through the wool, the wool becomes entangled. That's how it works. But if you make a mistake, you can always felt over it with something new. 

I've taught needle felting classes at G24. The participants are always  pleasantly surprised at what they are able to accomplish. I'll include a poster from one of my old classes, so you can see a bit more of the process.

So, if you're looking for something new to try, consider needle felting! Just make sure you have plenty of band-aids first.
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