Shop Felting Supplies

What is felting?

Felting is the craft of matting wool fibers together into a solid fabric or sculpture. Because wool fibers have microscopic scales, they lock together permanently when agitated. There are two main methods:

• Needle felting — you repeatedly poke wool with a barbed felting needle to sculpt 3D shapes like animals, ornaments, and figures. It's dry, precise, and beginner-friendly.
• Wet felting — you use warm water, soap, and friction to mat wool into flat sheets or seamless vessels, ideal for scarves, bags, and hats.

Best felting supplies for beginners

New to felting? The easiest way to start is with an all-in-one needle felting kit, which includes pre-measured wool, the right needles, and step-by-step instructions. If you'd rather build your own starter set, you'll want three things: wool roving or batting, a size 38 felting needle (a versatile all-purpose gauge), and a foam or wool felting mat.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to start needle felting?

At minimum you need wool roving, a barbed felting needle, and a felting mat (foam pad or wool sponge) to work on. A beginner needle felting kit bundles all of these together with a project and instructions.

What is the difference between needle felting and wet felting?

Needle felting is a dry technique that uses a barbed needle to sculpt wool into 3D shapes. Wet felting uses warm water, soap, and friction to mat wool into flat fabric or seamless vessels. Needle felting is generally easier for beginners and better for detailed figures.

What wool is best for felting?

Short-fiber wools felt fastest. Corriedale and merino roving are popular all-purpose choices for both needle and wet felting, while wool batting builds up the core of a sculpture quickly. For fine surface detail and color, add merino roving and wool nepps.

What size felting needle should I use?

A size 38 needle is the most versatile all-purpose gauge and a great place to start. Use a coarser 36 gauge for fast early shaping and a finer 40 gauge for smooth surface finishing and detail.

Is needle felting good for kids and beginners?

Needle felting is beginner-friendly and a popular family craft, but the needles are extremely sharp and barbed, so children should always be supervised and use a finger guard.

Does Paradise Fibers offer free shipping on felting supplies?

Yes. We offer free shipping on U.S. orders over $99, so it's easy to stock up on wool, needles, kits, and tools in one order.