With the introduction of third world country fair trade companies into mainstream shopping, the ancient art of Felting has shown up front and center in anything from crafts and decorating to clothing and accessories. I love the way felted animals look so realistic and add some charm to any display, so I decided to make a Squirrel Ornament for the movie release Nut Job 2 – Nutty By Nature on August 11!

Felting a squirrel ornament was difficult at first, but once I got the hang of soaking and shaping the wool, I started to really like it.  You don’t need a lot of supplies for felting, but you will need an abundance of patience if you are making anything other than a ball!  Some find the art of felting soothing and relaxing, while others consider it rather tedious and repetitive.  However, if you stick with it, you’ll discover a new craft skill that has been around since 600AD!

Squirrel Ornament For Felting Beginners

The process of felting can be a little intimidating at first but you will be so happy with your squirrel ornament that it will be worth it.  It is important to have the proper supplies before beginning.

Supplies for Squirrel Ornament:

• Merino felting wool
• Bowl of hot water
• Unscented mild dish soap
• Beads for eyes
• Thread for hanging

Step 1: Pull apart the pieces of wool that you want to use.  They should be wispy pieces that look like cotton candy.

Step 2: Fill a bowl of water with hot water and some dish soap.  Starting with a ball of wool, dunk it in the hot water and roll it around in your hands until it starts to shrink together.  Keep adding layers of the wispy pieces of wool and alternate with the hot water, forming the shape as you go.

Step 3: The pieces for the body, head, arms, legs and tail do not get glued or sewed with a needle and thread!  Use the felting technique to put form them, adding a different color wool for the tail.

Step 4: Once you have your squirrel ornament formed using the felting technique, and it has shrunk to the size you desire, dunk in hot water one more time.

Step 5: Dump the water out of the bowl, gently squeeze the excess water from the squirrel ornament and lay back in the bowl to dry completely.

Step 6: Once your squirrel ornament is dry, carefully comb the tail using metal bristles to fluff it out.

Step 7: Glue the beads in place for eyes.  Let them dry.

Step 8: Glue a small acorn or pinecone in the squirrel’s hands.

Step 9: Using thread and a needle, add a hanging hook through the head of the squirrel ornament.

That’s it!  Your squirrel ornament is ready to display on your Christmas tree. Felting is a great way to create animals that can be used as toys for your children.  Make a unique brooch for your winter coat or use the felting technique to a purse or other accessory.  The sky’s the limit now that you know how!

If you love the look of woodland animals but felting isn’t for you, check out our variety of personalized squirrel ornaments that are perfect for your tree!

halloweenie