Needle felting, sometimes called needling, is a technique that interlocks fibres and layers of material using specially shaped needles. The needles repeatedly carry fibres through the layers to create a new surface and distinctive mixed-material effects. Unlike conventional embroidery, the interlocking itself does not require a stitching thread; the finished piece may still need a separate backing or fixing process, depending on its intended use.

Examples of needle-felted embroidery

Materials that can be combined

Needle felting can be explored with different fibres and base materials, sometimes alongside other embroidery techniques. The choice depends on the feel, appearance and performance required of the finished sample. Materials mentioned in our original collection include:

• felt and wool;
• genuine leather or imitation leather;
• denim, cotton and linen;
• recycled polyester fibres;
• silk, viscose and satin.

Actual compatibility should be checked on a sample: fibre type, substrate thickness and the desired surface effect all influence the result.

Wool needle felting forms a letter on canvas. Fibres of different colours can be worked into the same design.

Finishing and durability

After the fibres have been combined, a finishing step may be needed to stabilise the surface for its intended application. Depending on the materials, a backing, heat bonding or adhesive layer can be considered on the reverse. Washability and resistance to wear should be tested for the specific combination rather than assumed from the technique alone.

Other approaches can secure a design while keeping the base fabric light. The appropriate construction is selected during sampling. Needle felting on genuine leather is another application in our collection.

Explore needle-felted samples

Marini Ricami 1986 develops samples to match a client’s design and material requirements, balancing the desired softness and appearance with the intended use. To view examples or discuss a proposed combination of fibres and substrates, contact our team.