My Top 5 Tips for Needle Felting Doll Faces | Natural Fiber Art Dolls and Waldorf Inspired

In this quick video I give you some of my best tips for needle felting doll faces, whether you are trying to sculpt natural fiber art dolls or waldorf inspired dolls. I have over 10 years of experience needle felting doll faces (and other doll parts) and I have taught many students how to approach this wonderful technique. I hope this helps you come to needle felting with a little bit more method, so you can achieve better symmetry (always welcomed) and more harmony, getting you closer to achieving the facial features you have envisioned for your doll.
Disclaimer: I am not this methodic when it comes to my doll sculpting, I needle felt very organically but I also have a lot of experience. I have found these tips to be very helpful to my students when they are starting to use this technique.
Check out the written version, with some helpful links:
www.figandme.com/blog/tips-for...
#naturalfiberartdoll #dollmaking #needlefeltingtechniques
Time stamps for easy viewing:
0:00 Intro
0:39 Discussing Needle Felting as a Fiber Art
1:18 The Difference Between Sculpting Dolls and Sculpting Figurines
3:00 Tip 1: Divide the Face into Quadrants
4:10 Tip 2: Mark the Placement for each Face Feature
4:55 Tip 3: Roll Wool for the Main Face Features
5:52 Tip 4: Sculpt the Mouth Line First
6:40 Tip 5: Use a Doll Template
8:06 Needle Felting a Doll with a Wire Armature | Patreon series
Find me elsewhere:
Website, for my dollmaking journal | www.figandme.com/blog
Etsy, for patterns | figandme.etsy.com
Instagram, for daily thoughts | / figandme
Facebook, for announcements and doll sales | / figandme
Patreon, for thorough video tutorials | / figandme

[@cielbrown5648]

Thank you so much for this video and other tips. I’ve watched many of your videos and have found them to be incredibly helpful. I am so touched by your generosity in sharing your knowledge and hard earned experience to enable others to learn from you with ease about doll making process. Fabs, you are truly fabulous.

[@Figandme]

It took me many years to acquire the knowledge and then the courage to share it, being self-taught I thought maybe I didn't know well enough to teach.

[@shelleyvonletkemann6659]

Very many thanks for sharing your knowledge . I supported you through Patreon . Due to financial troubles I'm taking a temp break . I didn't get a chance to view the info you offer on your Patreon . So I especially appreciate the part of it you share here .

[@gulhatunsahin1145]

@@Figandme😊❤❤❤❤

[@annakaserpa1796]

I am just venturing into the doll felting world and you inspire me to move forward and be bravely adventurous;)

[@Figandme]

I think it is the mark of an engaged mind, that we are always tinkering about. Sometimes that is through learning how to make different styles of doll hair, other times is clothing or knitting stitches. One of the many reasons I love dollmaking is that it encourages so much curiosity and that you learn through being creative. Enjoy!

[@marshamilstock2221]

Thank you. Your voice is very calming, which adds so much to this incredible video. Makes one want to venture into the felting art medium.

[@Figandme]

I don't think anybody has ever said my voice is calming…but I am so happy it inspires you to start needle felting.

[@debbiebuttars5598]

Oh this video! It’s just so helpful and perfect. This is a true art. I can’t get enough of your videos and can (and do) watch them over and over. Between the content, the music, and your wonderful voice they just transport me to a special place. You are so generous to make such beautiful and informative videos. I can’t thank you enough.

[@Figandme]

Thank you for letting me know. It is always very good to know when the videos are welcomed so positively!

[@leighmorton9589]

Thank you! You are such an amazing artist and your dolls are some of my most favorite!!

[@Figandme]

Thank you so much!

[@mandaS1975]

Please know your information and tutorials are immensely appreciated! I just discovered your videos and website and I would love to be able to make a doll for myself so I am going to start gathering supplies and muster up the courage to begin ☺️ Your work is absolutely gorgeous 🖤

[@Figandme]

You can do this! and I firmly believe you won't regret it.

[@mariannehenderson5473]

thank you, really opened up for me the world of combining the classic way of making Steiner dolls, combined with needle felting

[@Figandme]

You are welcome Marianne, I hope you expand your doll making territory.

[@hmajesty4860]

You are the best teacher one could dream of!! My thanks to you!!

[@Figandme]

Thank you! 😃

[@lllita]

I would love to have the time to learn this skill! My girls love the crochet and sewn toys I make them. This is definitely my next venture. Love your videos.

[@Figandme]

It's a beautiful craft, highly recommend!

[@annegallacher4992]

Thank you so much for sharing your techniques and inspiring me to continue to develop my doll making journey.

[@Figandme]

You are welcome Anne. Thank you for watching!

[@inezeide355]

So appreciative of this repost Fabs!! You are the best! Can't wait for our felting class so long awaited...felting is so much fun!

[@Figandme]

Thank you Inez! I know the sound is a bit bad, but I was trying to publish it this week because there is more stuff coming!

[@inezeide355]

Didn't notice or care about sound quality...ever video from you is a treasure 🥰

[@iancrespo7148]

Wow its just now I discovered this art! I'm so excited to learn this and make my own figures and dress them up

[@Figandme]

Oh you are going to love it Ian, doll making is incredibly rewarding! How exciting for you!

[@smiller5603]

Very awesome doll face, so real looking. The tips were great can't wait to try one.

[@Figandme]

Thanks so much 😊

[@helenevallee6ix]

This is very helpful and also inspirational! Thank you for sharing.

[@Figandme]

Thank you Helene, I hope this makes it easier or less daunting to try needle felting.

[@stealth3764]

Thank you for sharing your video. I have just started needle felting and this is fantastic to help toward bigger projects when I get better at the art.

[@Figandme]

Thank you for letting me know, I am glad to hear it was helpful to you.

[@michellejackson8877]

Thank you so much and your voice is so magical!!!

[@Figandme]

Thank you Michelle, such a kind thing to say!

[@Jadisek]

Beautiful dolls and very valuable video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge! ❤

[@Figandme]

You are welcome, glad to hear it was valuable to you.

[@MaryKlunder-sq9cg]

Thank you so much. Your video is very well done, I'm just starting to learn how fun this art of felting can be.

[@Figandme]

Thank you for your kind comment Mary, wishing you all the fun in the world as you practice and experience needle felting.

[@genetmelesse7569]

Thank you so much for your video and important information. I can’t see you enough. It is a big challenge and patience you need to do natural doll from scratch. But with your help, I hope I will get there. God bless you. No wonder they say, what do you do if you were in his or her shoes. Never underestimate.

[@Figandme]

You can do it! Best of luck in your doll making.

[@randithomson9054]

Wonderful tips! Thanks, Fabs 💗!

[@Figandme]

Glad you like them Randi!

[@isabelmonteiro7602]

Thanks you so much to share your passion with all of us.

[@Figandme]

My pleasure!

[@elnazmiabinezhad5014]

Wish you luck and patience in making longer videos! I would love to see more 😍

[@Figandme]

Thank you Elnaz, I am preparing this other one and I hope it's a good one!

[@patriziamartinelli8351]

grazie Fabs, come sempre i tuoi consigli sono preziosi

[@Figandme]

You are welcome Patrizia, I am glad you like it.

[@cathytarapacz]

I have never felted before so I am excited to try, thanku for your tips

[@Figandme]

Oh Cathy! you are in for a world of fun. There are literally hundreds of videos here on KZbin on how to learn needle felting. It might be just a little different than for the kinds of dolls I make, but all learning is good fun! Enjoy.

[@tekamuna100]

Thankyou for sharing your talent!

[@Figandme]

You are welcome!

[@alessandralavierideabreu235]

I love your videos! thank you for doing that!!

[@Figandme]

You are so welcome!

[@rosemaryrolfe5050]

absulutely fabulous thank you .so inspiring Fabs

[@Figandme]

You're welcome Rosemary, enjoy!

[@nnanaprudencesedabadi1863]

Thank you so much for sharing, I hope to learn the art of making dolls

[@Figandme]

Thank you for watching!

[@lesleygray1343]

Thank you! For your tips. 💕

[@Figandme]

You are so very welcome!

[@gulhatunsahin1145]

Videolarınızla çok şey öğrendim ,çok teşekkür ederim ❤😊

[@Figandme]

thank you for letting me know.

[@vivianalarraguibel6878]

Muchas gracias. Soy una nueva aprendiz. . Desde Mexico te saludo. Soy tu admiradora

[@Figandme]

Muchas gracias Viviana!

[@trishs.4326]

Great info , thanks 🙏 I’m only new here to this craft

[@Figandme]

You’re welcome 😊

[@alarttex]

Thank you so much Fab!!

[@Figandme]

You are so welcome!

[@MsArasar]

Thank you so much for your video, I am also a beginner puppeteer, thank you for sharing your invaluable experience :)

[@Figandme]

You are so welcome!

[@nicolemastop3954]

ThanI you for the inspiration Fabs !!

[@Figandme]

You're welcome Nicole!

[@lisabradford1452]

Thank you for this helpful video I l appreciate it. 😊

[@Figandme]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Lani-Grace]

Thank you and you are excellent I like that you practice excellence have a wonderful day

[@Figandme]

Thank you Delana, I do try!

[@corazondemelon7308]

Thank you❤

[@Figandme]

You're welcome 😊

[@user-oo1mr3ob6v]

Золотые ручки. Благодарю.❤

[@Figandme]

Спасибо

[@maruwa1248]

Muchas Gracias por compartir tu arte, soy mexicana del D.F. y vivo en Colorado, con este clima y la pandemia este proyecto sera maravilloso, tengo dos hijos increibles pero muero por hacer cosas para nina y ahora teengo una nueva sobrina, asi que estoy lista, saludos

[@Figandme]

Gracias Mar, espero que te ayuden mucho en tus nuevas aventuras!

[@braduptonjazz]

Thank you very helpful😉

[@Figandme]

You're welcome 😊

[@leilamedeiros756]

Beatiful

[@Figandme]

Thank you!

[@kaichishyr4141]

Thanks 😊

[@Figandme]

You're welcome!

[@livelovelaugh6923]

Спасибо большое...вы вдохновляете...

[@Figandme]

Спасибо за ваши добрые слова.

[@caroladorianclementehermoz7081]

Que hermoso trabajo ⚘️⚘️⚘️

[@Figandme]

Gracias Carola!

[@sallyallen1905]

Thank you

[@Figandme]

You're welcome

[@maruwa1248]

Muchas gracias

[@Figandme]

You're welcome!

[@vivianmacfadem4712]

hi Fabis,thanks,I love ,so much,besos

[@Figandme]

You are so welcome!

[@luziabitencourtdeathayde3420]

❤

[@Figandme]

🙏

[@genevievelamontagne7786]

thank you so much to share your time and passion, i dream about a long time, to learn how make theses dolls. if you can teach me, i will very happy and my daughter too.

[@Figandme]

You can buy this pattern, that introduces you to needle felting doll faces. Look for the Big Fig pattern in my etsy store (figandme.etsy.com) or you can take my needle felting online class, which will open doors again in January, you can find information about that class here: www.figandme.com/needle-felting-online-class-young-child

[@apolloniasalerno3631]

Sono contenta di aver trovato finalmente un video di questo genere solo se si potrebbe tradurre in italiano , mi piacerebbe molto! Grazie!

[@Figandme]

I'm sorry I cannot provide translations, I lack the time to do that.

[@marialiebl9051]

Danke für die Tipps bleibt Gesund liebe Grüße Maria

[@Figandme]

Vielen Dank, dass Sie einen Kommentar hinterlassen und meine Videos angesehen haben. Gut sein.

[@thelauncestonneedlefelter9037]

Lovely. I have been needle for nearly four years

[@Figandme]

It's like magic! I love it and can't get enough of it.

[@moonspiritartbycindyhill1084]

@@Figandme I started , when I saw my friend’s artwork in 3D needle felt.

[@Figandme]

@@moonspiritartbycindyhill1084 So glad to hear that, it is a beatiful way to build fiber work.

[@franziskaschubert393]

Wow, this is so helpful for me as a beginner. Thank you for sharing your tips and tricks. On Patreon do you also give an insight into how you attach the arms and legs? Loads of Love

[@Figandme]

There are many tutorials and tips and tricks on Patreon. You can read the index here: www.figandme.com/patreon-tutorials

[@annj3150]

It is nice

[@Figandme]

Thank you!

[@As-so5ks]

❤🍬

[@nurturewithartnature619]

Thank you so much. Love your videos. I had a question, why do you needle felt after wrapping the head (ball batting) in the sock mesh? Wouldn’t you just needle felt the face on the wool ball and then wrap it up? Thanks again

[@Figandme]

There can be several reasons. If you don't have the experiece to needle felt a skull and create harmonious face proportions, forming the head in stockinette first can help guide you. Second reason can be that pre-shaping the head like that allows you to create a sturdy neck with all the wool that hangs, that you can later sculpt to form said neck and a spine that will the doll a lot of stability. It is very hard to construct a neck that will support the heavy compacted wool from the head, just using needle felting techniques. Most often you end up with a doll that after a year or so has either a wobbly head or a head that tilts because the neck can no longer support the head. I never needle felt a doll's face and then add stockinette over. A lot of dollmakers do that because they feel it helps them achieve a smoother results with the extra layer of fabric on top (or maybe prevent wool migrating through the skin) but I much rather needle felt everything to a marble-like texture, because otherwise I would have to sculpt with thread twice. Needle felt the face, cover in stockinette, sculpt all the features with thread to sink in the stockinette and then cover in skin fabric and sculpt again.

[@nurturewithartnature619]

@@Figandme thank you so much for the explanation

[@mandygreen9915]

Can I ask what fabric you use to cover the face after you have needle felted the face please

[@Figandme]

You can read about that here: www.figandme.com/blog/guide-doll-skin-fabric-waldorf-dollmaking

[@user-so9un5mk4f]

Класс !!!

[@Figandme]

У меня есть онлайн-класс. Вы можете найти это здесь: www.figandme.com/needle-felting-online-class-young-child

[@kitajuno974]

Do you have a video on adding the fabric? That is the part that turns out badly, either there are wrinkles in the neck or the seam on top of the head looks like a frankenstein creation.

[@Figandme]

I do, you can find it in the Hansel and Gretel series on covering the head. The more needle felting and sculpting you do, the more patient you are going to have to be in draping the fabric and making sure everything looks ok. The wrinkles at the neck are a result of not stretching the fabric tightly and securing it with strong stitches over the spine…so it rides up and makes all those wrinkles. That or too thin a neck that creates too much distortion in the proportions in size of head versus neck.

[@deannak1841]

I love needle felting, but it's so expensive to get started n keep going. How much did it take to get started with a business

[@Figandme]

Well, when I started my business was 15 years ago and I started as a doll maker, not a needle felter. I guess it depends.

[@LJ-qi6hy]

Sorry if you have mentioned this but what is the netting you are using ?( 4 mins 15 ) thankyou

[@Figandme]

you can find a list of all the materials I use on a post in my blog. www.figandme.com/blog/doll-making-materials-for-natural-fiber-art-dolls

[@devanandaom9697]

Can you put a video for make needle felting doll body

[@Figandme]

I have put an entire series on this on Patreon. You can check out all those tutorials in this index. www.figandme.com/patreon-tutorials

[@fatmaergul3835]

Turkey ben fatma harika çokgüzel yapıyorsun kutlarım seni ünvan alman gerek. Çok başarılısın . Heykel tıraş yapmış olmalısınki bukadar başarılısın . Kimse senin kadar düzgün yapamaz .keşke seningibi bebekler yapabilsemde torunumu sevindirsem. Hayatçok uzun saglıklı mutlu ol çokzengin ol inşaallah bebek satışlarında amin

[@Figandme]

Nezaketin için çok teşekkür ederim

[@Najdivadoll]

How do I find your Paetron account? I would love to subscribe and continue learn how to make a Waldorf doll.

[@Figandme]

Usually I place important links in the video description, but please let me explain you won't learn how to make a Waldorf doll by joining my Patreon channel. I do not teach how to make an entire doll there. You will be best served by purchasing one of my dollmaking e-books and if you are really interested after that, you can join one of my online classes (I recommend the Little Fig doll pattern to begin with). Patreon would be helpful to you once you have made a few dolls and would like to expand your knowledge and techniques, but you won't learn to make a full doll by joining Patreon. Here are some links for you: figandme.etsy.com (for dollmaking ebooks) Patreon www.patreon.com/figandme Classes www.figandme.com/workshops

[@griselquesada3227]

Hi How can I purchase a class thank you love your work

[@Figandme]

You can check my classes here: www.figandme.com/workshops

[@lyndiss.2017]

Um, I have a question if you'd have me! I noticed that sometimes you use tubular gauze, and sometimes you don't. May I ask what's the use of using a gauze? When should I use it, and when should I not? Thanks in advance! This question has been puzzling me for a while now, heh heh!

[@Figandme]

I only use it when I teach, I don't personally use it on my dolls anymore. The reason for using the stockinette/gauze is for people who have less experience needle felting an entire head from the get go, and also because having the gauze with wool coming from the head helps you build a strong spine and a neck for your doll.

[@lagerhorn]

How many grams of wool are needed for a head

[@Figandme]

It depends on your doll's size.

[@dianebarker9076]

thank you nowhere near that yet but food for thought.

[@Figandme]

You can do it!

[@adamariascafidi5496]

😁👌👌👌👌👌👏👏👏👏👏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Figandme]

Thank you!

[@angelm8557]

that is real wool?

[@Figandme]

Yes of course, I buy it directly from a woollen mill here in Canada.

[@simonettabenemeglio6788]

hai misurato la testa ma non ci hai detto di quanti cm deve essere:ce lo puoi dire per favorfe?

[@Figandme]

No, I can't, because I am not teaching you how to make this exact head. I am giving you tips for when you decide to tackle needle felting on your dolls. If you want explicit instructions, with measurements, amounts, materials, and a step by step process you can purchase any of my doll patterns or one of my online classes. For the video classes visit this link: dollmakingacademy.thinkific.com/ and for the patterns this one: www.etsy.com/shop/figandme/

[@As-so5ks]

💔

[@tifany2684]

No entendí ninguna wea

[@Figandme]

Sorry to hear that.