Felting Needles Explained

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Choosing the Right NeedleChoosing the right felting needle is one of the most important parts of needle felting. Different needle sizes and types are designed for different stages of your project, from shaping your core wool to adding fine detail and creating a smooth finish.If you’re new to needle felting, don’t worry — most projects use a combination of needles rather than just one.

 

Felting Needle Sizes Guide

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Felting needles are measured in gauges (G). The lower the number, the thicker the needle.32G (Extra Coarse)The thickest needle available. Ideal for quickly felting large amounts of wool and forming your base shape.36G (Coarse)Great for shaping and sculpting. This is a good starting needle for most beginner projects.38G (Medium)A true all-rounder. Perfect for refining shapes and attaching wool.40G (Fine)Used for smoothing the surface and adding finer detail to your work.42G (Extra Fine)Best for finishing touches. Helps reduce visible stab marks and create a clean, smooth surface.

 

Types of Felting Needles

 

Triangular NeedlesThe most common type of felting needle. Suitable for all stages of felting, from shaping to finishing.Spiral NeedlesTwisted tips allow for faster felting and help tighten fibres. Ideal when adding colour or smoothing your piece.Star NeedlesFeature extra barbs for faster felting, making them perfect for speeding up your work.Reverse NeedlesDesigned to pull fibres out rather than push them in. These are great for creating a fluffy, fur-like finish and adding texture to animals.🤔 Which Felting Needle Should I Use?If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a simple approach:Start with a 36G or 38G for shapingMove to a 40G for refiningFinish with a 42G for smoothingMost felting projects use more than one needle size to get the best results.

 

Why Choose Simply Felting?

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At Simply Felting, we carefully select our felting needles to make sure they’re reliable, durable, and suitable for both beginners and experienced felters.​

High quality felting needles ​

Perfect for beginners and hobbyists​

Fast UK delivery​

Family run business