Felted Fellow

All three boys, C included, are away for the weekend in Whitefish helping some friends, who have a 6 year old son for the boys to play with, to build a pergola over their patio.  I didn't go with them because I had signed up for a needle felting class held today at our LYS and taught by a woman who came over from Helena.  That means that I get two whole nights and almost two whole days all to myself!  It feels like I'm at away at a retreat only that it's being held at our very own home.

The class ran all day from 9 am to 6 pm.  Although all of us in the class were people with various degrees of fiber interests (many who raise their own animals) we all found ourselves saying things like, "Oh, mine won't turn out anywhere near as well as that one.", "I'd better choose a color other than skin-tones since I doubt mine will look at all human anyways.", "I don't like how this nose is turning out.", "Oh dear, these feet don't look right."   We were all filled with such doubt and were so unsure of what we were doing but, by the end, we were all so pleased- no, thrilled, amazed - with the results, both of our own and of others.  We all started with, essentially, the same ball of wool yet we all came home with something unique and full of it's own character, and not necessarily anything near to what we each had been planning, in our heads, to end up with.  It was amazing, beyond our expectations, a tribute to the instructor, really, and to the creative process itself.  She showed us just what we needed to know, and then, as she suggested, the wool would tell us the rest.  These creatures almost created themselves if you just followed a certain sequence, a few simple guidelines, and just had fun and let the rest fall into place.

I forget sometimes how helpful it is to work on something together in a group setting and with a personal instructor.   Sure, you can learn just about anything from a book, from the internet, or from just going for it.  On the other hand, I've never been disappointed when I've spent the money to take a class like this, whether it's spinning or weaving or sewing or yoga.  That's where you get all the little tricks, as well as a good dose of motivation.

It's not that I'm going to give up knitting and sewing and become a needle felter.  I'll probably do some more finishing work on this guy that we couldn't get to in the class which, normally, is a two day class except that we all requested a single, long-day class.  I'll probably make some clothes for him someday.  Maybe not.  I'll also finish the needle felted troll above that I started from a kit a couple of years ago but didn't have the know-how or the confidence to complete, instead putting it aside because it started looking more like an alien than I wished it would.  This time, maybe I'll just let it become the alien kind of troll that it apparently wants to be.  Then, who knows?  Who am I kidding?  Back to knitting, of course.

Oh, and here is the very best needle felting site out there, in my opinion:  Birgitte Krag Hansen, except there seems to be many, many parts missing in the photo gallery since the site has been redone which is rather disappointing.  Maybe they will be added back sometime?  I was able to browse through her book, New Felt, today at the class and it was just beautiful, although she shows some rather different techniques than what we learned today.  Ah, to take a course from Brigette Krag Hansen herself, in a place like these!

Only one more thing:  this new, felted guy, above, needs a name.  I already have an idea for one but I'm curious to see what all you creative folks can come up with.  Maybe you'll change my mind.

Had a long, uninterrupted, conversation with my brother on the phone this evening.  Now, I'm off to enjoy a strangely quiet house.  I just might have to turn on the radio for some company.  I'm off to do some sewing.  And, guess what?  There's not a dirty dish in the house.  !

Comments

[kt]

Well, Puck is the most appropriate moniker, but for some reason, my mind said "Cyril" when I looked at him for a name..... dunno why!

Beaut of a bus in the last post BTW. Enjoy.

[Julia]

He's so cute! I love his colors and his curly locks. I want to give him a squeeze. I thought Edwyn or Norwyn, but I agree that Cyril somehow fits him! I like that name. And I'm a huge VW fan, I love the bus!

[Bethany]

Oh, your felted fellow is beautiful!! He made me smile as soon as I clicked opened your page.

I know what you mean about getting some motivation and inspiration learning with others. I have a habit of thinking I can do it all in isolation, but even when I just sit and talk with someone who is enthusiastic and supportive of what I'm doing, it buoys me up and helps me go further.

[Barb]

Very inspiring needle felting links and experiences. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your solitude:)

[Anna]

He is just amazing! And he looks so nice and friendly. I don't have a suggestion for a name yet. Perhaps I come back commenting later :)

[kmkat]

Henry Curlyfeathers is what popped into my mind. I love the detail you gave him, especially the twinkle in his eye! (sort of reminds me of my husband ;-) )

[Dave]

Whatever you name him, he is absolutely adorable.

[Scoutj]

Wow! That's amazing. I have to admit those felted people freak me out a bit when their eyes look so REAL!

[peg]

Hummy - prounced hugh me! He has that look in his eyes - Did you make that mess in the kitchen? Who me? hugh me or Hummy!
Wow isn't the peace and quiet nice for a bit? You will be pleased to see all your guys in a day or two, but the boys may have an even better name for him.

[Krista M]

I do enjoy a silent house, but it does get lonely in the wee hours of night, doesn't it? When I am home alone, I will wake up because I DON'T hear my husband snoring beside me. I'll actually sleep with the TV on! What a great project to have the weekend to work on, though. I've never tried needle felting, but who can resist that guy?!?

[Carrie]

He is a cutie. He doesn't tell me his name, though.
I hope whatever you decide to do on your free day, it's fun!

[Shannon]

Who taught the class? I've never taken one of the needle felting classes, but it looks like fun.

You have no idea how jealous I am. A whole weekend? Alone? I don't know what I would do with myself either.

[Jo]

Love the little felted fellow you made in class but MUST KNOW where you got the kit for the troll. Even only half done he is irresistible. Must have one NOW! Where do I go?
Jo
Celtic Memory Yarns

[Jo]

Sorry, I mightn't have made that clear. The unfinished troll you started from a kit last year. His brother is waiting for me, I just know it!
Jo
Celtic Memory Yarns

[Erin B]

What about Bacchus for the lovely grape leaves curls for hair and the lovely purple complexion!

[Rose]

They are great - I really need to try needle felting one of these days.

[Pattie]

I love that felt guy! His lips and hair are hilarious! And I love the colors too. You're so talented. (How about Marty?)

[Simmy]

What a wonderful creature. I am so impressed. I also like Birgittes work and I love the book. Well done.

[Birgitte Krag Hansen]

Don't worry - all the picture galleries will be back on my website soon :-)

[--erica]

I am so in love with your needle felting! I have a kit coming in the mail.. I can't wait to try!
erica

[Christine]

What a great troll. I love the colors and it is adorable.