Paint Iris Bouquet in wool with this wool painting kit by Charivna Mit: a tall bouquet of purple, pink and apricot irises against a soft turquoise background, with bead accents.
The iris is named after Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow, because its petals come in almost every color.
Why this kit: wool painting needs no drawing skills: the color pattern shows where each shade goes, so you lay thin wisps of wool like brushstrokes and the picture comes together in soft layers. 16 shades of wool give it real depth, so it is a relaxing project for a few evenings rather than an afternoon.
Kit includes: a felt base, 16 colors of Corriedale wool, 6 colors of Madeira floss, 5 colors of Czech Preciosa beads, a felting needle, an embroidery needle, a color pattern and an instruction chart. Made in Ukraine. Not included: a picture frame, a foam felting pad and small scissors.
How to felt it: start with the sky and background, laying thin, even layers of wool over the base and felting them flat with light, straight jabs. Then add the middle ground, and finish with the raised details, rolling small tufts into petals, leaves and shapes before felting them in place. Finally, sew on the beads and stitch the fine lines with the floss. Keep the needle upright so it does not snap, and store it safely after use.
Finished size: about 17.5×35 cm (6.9×13.8 in), frame not included. Hang it in a living room, bedroom or hallway, or frame it as a homemade gift for gardeners, flower lovers and moms. Recommended for ages 14 and up; the felting needles are very sharp, so keep them away from young children.