BOOK :: From Felt to Fabric :: by Catherine O'Leary

From Felt to Fabric: New Techniques in Nuno Felting
by Catherine O'Leary
978-1-60059-667-4
Lark Crafts
Review by Sarah Meehan

In From Felt to Fabric: New Techniques in Nuno Felting, acclaimed fiber artist Catherine O'Leary shares her signature approach to creating one-of-a-kind felted artwork. The book begins with a detailed, step-by-step overview of the basics, with easy-to-understand instructions and close-up photographs that take the mystery out of the nuno felting process - including her signature "prefelt" technique, which integrates printed fabric into felted wool pieces. From there, O'Leary delves deep into the "Elements of Composition," with four detailed sections that discuss shape, color, texture, and design. Each section is presented along with photographs of unique details and written descriptions that will help you to move beyond traditional nuno felting techniques. The chapter that follows, entitled "For Further Exploration," builds upon the ideas presented in the previous sections but with exciting new elements - including using repurposed fabric and incorporating imagery into your pieces. The final chapter of the book is a 24-page "Project Gallery" in which O'Leary shares her own finished pieces that were created using the techniques showcased in the book. From Felt to Fabric: New Techniques in Nuno Felting offers a fresh and inspiring look at designing your own felted fabric, and is an indispensable resource for anyone with an interest in felting.