Are you a beginner and would love to know how to get started in 2d needle felting?

You have come to the right place!

If you are overwhelmed by all the options out there, then my advice is to pick one project that you would like to do. The best thing is either a workshop, or tutorial, or in the form of a kit. Or the best of both worlds, choose a workshop with the option of buying the beginner kit and then you'll have everything you need!

I run workshops from time to time and kits are available to purchase if you wish.

To be the first to know about my upcoming workshops or courses, sign up to the waitlist: HERE

What do I need to buy to get started in 2d needle felting?

Here are 4 essentials to get started with 2d needle felting:

1. The first essentials you need are felting needles. These are special needles with small barbs which felt the wool as you stab into it. Needles come in all shapes and sizes and if you are a beginner, you are likely going to go through a lot of needles! I recommend buying a variety pack so that you can have a play and see which needles you prefer. I love these needles by Heidi Feathers.
2. Next you will need material to felt onto as a base. There are so many options to choose from but I recommend starting with wool felt. If you are doing a simple project, something like this 1mm wool felt is ideal and comes in a variety of colours. You could even use an old wool blanket. Or if you have some tweed material or any material with a close weave, you should be able to felt onto it. Have a play with some fabrics and see what you prefer.
3. You will also need a felting mat to protect the surface underneath your material and to provide a cushioned surface to felt into. Foam mats like these are ideal see what you prefer. If you would prefer a starter kit, something like this from heidifeathers is a good choice as it not only contains a foam mat, but also some natural wool colours ideal for animal pictures and a selection of needles to try. If you prefer a longer lasting felting mat, then you could try a wool buddy or a felting pad like this one.
4. Lastly, felting fibre or wool is an absolute necessity for 2d needle felting. You can felt with almost any wool or fibre, including dog or cat fur, but some are definitely more suited to 2d needle felting than others. I recommend starting with a merino wool or a fibre approx 19-27 microns for 2d felting. Something like this selection of wool batts is a good choice and you can choose from a range of colour palettes.

Need some inspiration for your first felting project?

Why not join my friendly needle felting community at facebook.com/groups/Feltportraits where you'll find some incredible 2d artwork. Although you would not copy another artist's work directly, looking at other artist's work is a great way to get inspired!

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