Adding Fur or Hair to Your Felting
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Needle Felting Tutorial: Adding Fur or Hair
Materials Needed
- Wool tops, batts, sliver or locks (choose based on desired texture)
- Felting needles (36G-38G)
- Scissors
- Optional: Carders
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Wool
- Pull or cut small tufts of wool to the desired length, this amount will be folded so allow for that before cutting
- For natural variation, blend colours by hand or carders before use.
2. Decide on Placement
- Look at a picture of what you are wanting to make and visualize where the fur or hair will go.
- The direction makes a difference to how it will sit once attached.
- For animals, start at the base and layer upward.
- For dolls, plan partings, fringes, or ponytails before attaching.
3. Anchor the Wool
- Use a felting needle to push the wool firmly into the surface or core shape.
- Work in small sections, securing just the middle of each tuft and then fold over and start on the next section.
4. Build Layers
- Add wool in overlapping rows, starting from the bottom.
- Continue layering until the area is covered and full.
5. Shape and Trim
- Use scissors to trim the fur or hair to your desired style and lengths.
- For realism, vary the lengths slightly.
6. Fluff and Finish
- Very Lightly comb or brush the fibres to separate and fluff them.
- This adds volume and softness.
- For a sleek look, gently smooth the fibres with your fingers.
Tips for Good Results
- Use finer wool for delicate areas like faces or ears.
- Blend multiple shades for depth and realism.
- Don’t over-felt—light anchoring keeps the fur soft and movable.
- For whiskers or eyebrows, use thin strands and anchor with precision.
Step-by-step pictures and instruction The Felt Hub
