By Loli Cox

On a crisp November morning, thirty enthusiastic members of Feltmakers Ireland gathered at the CIE Sports Hall in Inchicore for a truly enchanting workshop led by the talented Belinda Reid of Chasing Dreams Felt Art. Held on Sunday, the 9th of November, the session focused on crafting whimsical three-dimensional fairies and angels using the delightful art of needle felting—a meditative, sculptural technique that transforms loose wool fibres into firm, detailed shapes with the repeated poking of a barbed needle.

Belinda, a passionate felt artist and Feltmakers Ireland committee member, guided the group with warmth and expertise. Known for her intricate felted creations and patient teaching style, she ensured every participant felt supported, offering one-on-one advice tailored to individual projects.

The process began with the basics: shaping a solid head from soft carded Irish wool. Arms came next—pipe cleaners wrapped first in skin-toned, Merino Roving in ‘Dune’ from Belinda’s Shop, for structure, then layered with colourful wool to form the gowns. Bodies and dresses bloomed in a rainbow of hues, from soft pastels to vibrant jewel tones. Hairstyles added personality: flowing blonde or brunette locks, elegant buns, or playful curls. Finally, delicate wings completed each figure, turning simple materials into magical beings.

Optional embroidery thread allowed for extra sparkle: tiny stitched details on dresses, belts, or even miniature flowers. The room buzzed with quiet concentration and bursts of delight as fairies, angels, one witch and a Granuaile O’Malley Pirate Queen emerged, each one utterly unique.

Participants left beaming, many already planning their next creations. “I can’t wait to make a whole flock for Christmas gifts!” one member shared. Others envisioned their new treasures perched on mantels or twinkling among fairy lights as part of seasonal décor.

A huge thank you to Belinda Reid for sharing her skill and infectious creativity, and to the dedicated volunteers who made the day run smoothly. Workshops like these remind us why we love felting: a few handfuls of wool, a little patience, and suddenly—magic!

To learn more about Belinda, who offers workshops, felting supplies, and felted art, visit her website – https://www.chasingdreamsfeltart.com/

Her Instagram: @chasing_dreams_feltart_

More Photos

Baked Goods with History

Tip: Below are the pipe cleaners we used, available on Amazon. The company is called ‘Golden Beads’.

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