Sweet & Simple Needle Felted Animals

October 15, 2017

Needle felting--a process in which wool roving is punched with a sharp needle and sculpted into shapes--is used to create a menagerie of adorable animals in this collection by expert felter Susa (It's a Small World Felted Friends). Susa begins with two step-by-step lessons (a miniature dachshund and matryoshka bears), walking crafters carefully through the process of sculpting the individual components, then combining and refining the finished piece. For each pattern, Susa provides handy size measurements for the individual elements, which lets crafters know they are on the right track. The designs are best described as realistic/cute, with details that will appeal to children and adults alike. VERDICT Susa's approach to needle felting will give beginners the know-how to get started, but experienced felters will also appreciate her whimsical designs.

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2017
Susa, whose specialty is making small, cute things, is known for her masterful needle felt creations. The projects included here, adorable creatures ranging from pets to forest fauna, all measure between about one and three inches in either direction. The designs were created for beginners to practice and master the basic techniques of needle felting. Instructions for creating each animal, starting with the simplest (a miniature dachshund), include close-up, actual-size photographs from many angles, each showing a ruler for scale. A separate image depicts each piece in a blown-apart, diagram-style arrangement, so it's easy to see how the animal is assembled. Step-by-step color photos illustrate every stage of construction. Every finished creature is also featured in a series of charming vignettes, showing how it could be displayed. The tiniest projects are designed to be used as charms and include directions for incorporating straps or rings. Novices and experienced needle felters alike will enjoy making these irresistible miniatures.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)