Crafting:Needle Felting

It seems like everywhere you look people are falling in love with needle felting. I first was introduced to this lovely craft when I purchased this felted cupcake from Betz White at the very first Country Living Fair held in Illinois three years ago.

And this felted fall purse by another artist at another craft fair.

Then there is Julie Collings, whose sweet and simple felting projects make you want one of everything she makes. You can find my favorite books on this craft here and here and here.

So I thought I should try it out for myself and decided to make these little felted charms. They are easy and fun to make in the evening while watching TV. Just be careful you don't stab yourself with the felting needle when you're watching your favorite show!

When I was done, I attached the charms along with some wire-wrapped beads to a chain to make this necklace. I think I'm going to make a charm bracelet next.

Swap Arrival!

In the previous post I told you about the swap I was in - One String At A Time. I showed you the banner I made and..... guess what? My partner, Susie's banner arrived yesterday! Yipee!!! Don't you love it? I can keep it out all year. RIght now it's hanging from the plate rack in my dining room.

Here's a close up of the detail. On one side she used a variety of pink buttons...all different ones. These are a few of my favorites.

The garland is held together by this crocheted string of little flowers. I think she made them. I'd love to learn how to do this. Does anyone have any instructions they want to share?

But until I can figure out how to do it myself, Susie sent me this darling card with some of my own to play with! Thank you so much Susie...you're a doll!