Felting Tools

About Felting

While pieces of felt can be purchased at most craft supply stores, many people prefer to practice the art of felting wool, a craft that dates back many centuries. In fact, archaeologists have unearthed clothing and other items made out of felt that were extremely well-preserved due to the craftsmanship and sturdiness of the felted wool.

Felting Needles

Felting needles come in a variety of styles, but the basic purpose of each is the same. Needles are comprised of sharp points, with each point containing a miniature barb. The barbs are used to interlock the fibers as the needles are pushed and pulled through them. Needles are available in several gauges.

• Course grade wool: Choose a 32 gauge needle.
• Medium grade wool: You'll typically want a 36 or 38 gauge needle.
• Fine grade wool: It's best to use a 38 or 40 gauge needle.

Needle Problems

These needles are extremely sharp, so you should take care when using them. Some people prefer to use a piece of sturdy foam rubber or a small, adequately stuffed pillow as a base when felting. Needles may be break if you use the wrong gauge or have purchased cheap needles. Remember, you get what you pay for. Avoid punching the wool fibers through metal forms as well, since this technique can also cause your needles to break.

Buying Felting Tools

To tools for felting, visit the following sites:

• FeltCrafts
• Clover
• The Woolery

As you become more familiar with the art of felting, you'll make your own decisions on which felting tools are right for your project. Some of the more common tools include the following:

• Clover Pen Style Needle Felting Tool: This tool is perfect for delicate materials. You can choose from one up to three needles, and you can adjust the tool depending upon the depth of penetration that is needed. The handle is designed in a pen style, making it easy to hold and manipulate as well. This tool is a great choice if you are interested in creating specific designs and/or appliqués.
• Short-Needle Three Prong Punch: The short-needle three prong punch tool is another handy option. The needles are typically one inch in length, with the handle being about three inches, making this tool easy to handle as well.
• Clover 5-Needle Felting Tool: For those of you interested in dry felting, this is a great option. This needle gives you the option of using one or up to five needles, and the needles are easy to replace. Another great feature included in this tool is its needle guard, which protects fingers from injury.
• Brush Mat: Another option besides choosing foam rubber for a base is a brush mat. These typically come in a couple of sizes depending upon the size of your material. Smaller brush mats are usually around 2.7x3.5 inches, while larger mats are typically 3.25x5 inches. Be sure the brush mat you purchase is compatible with the tools you are using.
• FeltCrafts 2-Needle Tool: FeltCrafts also makes an aluminum tool which holds two needles. It has a removable chain and includes two needles.
• FeltCrafts 10-Needle Tool: If you are looking for a tool that offers more needles, then this one is for you. It's constructed out of aluminum and includes ten needles.
• FeltCrafts 20-Needle Tool: FeltCrafts' 20-needle tool has 20 needles shaped in a bull's eye pattern. It's a great tool for medium weight wool.
• FeltCrafts Multi-Needle Tool: A FeltCrafts multi-needle tool can hold up to six needles. It is easy to take apart for quick needle replacing. A typical kit includes a protective case and extra needles as well.
• Hand-Turned Felting Punch or Tool: Instead of a standard plastic handle, some tool handles are made out of wood. These can often be unscrewed by hand when replacing needles.