Needle felting

[morgaina]

I am thinking about doing a needle felt project with 2 of my classes. Maybe something like a coin/cosmetic/glasses pouch and if it works out a little 3-D animal.
Does anyone have any suggestions for a cushion to place the wool on as it is being felted? Foam is what is suggested but I don't have enough foam for an entire class. I am thinking of several layers of cardboard duct taped together as the backing, I could put together enough of those for a class. Do you think this will work? Any better suggestions?
This will be with the classes I trust to work with sharp needles. But any suggestions are appreciated.
I'm about to take off for work where so can't discuss this further until I return.

Comments

Needle Felting support

[redbowofdl.livejournal.com]

I've done alot of needle felting at home and in transit and I've tried all sorts of things to back the fabric during the stabbing process. Card board doesn't work because the needle sticks in the cardboard with each stab and really slows down the process and then the carboard starts disintegrating and the bits get pulled into the fabric. What you need is something with lots of air between the supports like a stiff bristle brush and you stab down into the bristles. That works great! A large pore sponge might work or a loofa. I have used a soft white foam block that came as packing for something and it was soft enough that I can stab into it without the needle sticking. EVentually I start pulling up bits of white foam into the fabric. The brushes work the best. They would need to have a flat back so they will sit flat without wobbling when upside down. The bigger the better but even small ones can work if you move the fabric around as needed.

Re: Needle Felting support

[copper-oxide.livejournal.com]

I also found out rapidly that cardboard is not a good option.
Thanks for your ideas :-)

Re: Needle Felting support

[madeileen.livejournal.com]

could the kids bring in their pillows that they sleep on, or cheap pillow blanks at the dollar store?

Re: Needle Felting support

[copper-oxide.livejournal.com]

I don't think their house staff would let them bring in their pillows. I am going to have to try back regularly at the Dollar store. I went through every aisle yesterday looking for things that might work.