Felt the Santa Stocking and Tree Brooch set, a Christmas needle felting kit by Wizardi. Santa, a plaid stocking and a little red tree: three Christmas brooches to felt and wear.
Crafters say a Christmas made by hand is remembered longest, and a little felted figure on the tree or mantel tends to become part of the family's decorations for years.
Why this kit: small flat pieces are the quickest way into needle felting, and each one takes an evening or less; once they are done you have festive brooches to wear all December or to give away.
Kit includes: wool roving in the design colors, felting needles set in a foam work pad, a hair clip and brooch pin backs, tiny gold bells, black bead eyes, a full-color picture card and an illustrated drawing-instructions sheet. Not included: small scissors for trimming stray fibers, which are handy but optional.
How to felt it: pull off small tufts of wool, roll them loosely and jab them with the felting needle, turning the shape as you go so it firms up evenly. Build the body first, then add the colored details and the face, and set the eyes last. Work on a foam pad or felting mat, keep your fingers clear of the needle tip and store the needles safely after use.
Finished size: about 2.0 in (5 cm). Pin them to a coat, scarf or bag, clip them in your hair, or give them as small homemade Christmas gifts. Recommended for ages 14 and up; the felting needles are very sharp, so keep them away from young children.