This simple and flowery hair tie is an ideal project for a beginner. Make two pieces of flat felt, cut them into flowers and adorn with a scattering of colourful sequins and beads. The pretty project is so versatile, it can also be made into barrettes and brooches.

Materials

  • Tops: Small amounts of pink, orange, yellow, purple, turquoise and pale green merino wool
  • A matching hair elastic or small barrette
  • Small selection of beads and sequins
  • Fine needle and thread
  • Fabric or craft glue

 

Size

Approximately 3 1⁄4 x 3 1⁄4 inches (8 x 8 cm)

Directions

1. Make up a square measuring about 8 inches (20 cm) with two layers of pink fleece and one of orange on top. Remember, the felt will shrink. Add a wispy layer of yellow fleece radiating out from the center.

2. Next to it, lay out a similar-size square with two layers of purple and one of turquoise over the top. Then add fine, wispy layers of pale green radiating out from the center.

3. Cover both squares with a piece of netting, then wet, soap and rub.

4. Rinse both squares in warm water and roll in a bamboo mat in all directions on both sides. See Feltmaking: Make Simple Flat Felt for more details.

5. Pour boiling water over the felt. Leave to cool slightly, and then rinse with cold water. Repeat the hot-water rinse and then repeat the rolling process. The felt should have shrunk and become a lot harder. Make sure all soap has been removed from the squares and leave them to dry. Press them flat if necessary.

6. Draw a circle 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter on a piece of paper, then cut it out as a template and place it over the center point of the blue felt. Cut out the blue circle. Make a second circle 2 1/2 inches (6.5 cm) in diameter and repeat for the orange felt.