Cozy Up for Fall: How to Make Felted Wool Roving Pumpkins

Hello, friends! 🍁 With the crisp air and the golden glow of autumn settling in, what could be better than cozying up for a fun fall DIY? Today, we’re diving into the world of needle felting to make charming little pumpkins out of wool roving. If you’re new to needle felting, don’t worry – this project is simple and relaxing, and it’s perfect for creating a warm and homey touch for your fall decor!

What You’ll Need

Let’s gather up our supplies! For this project, you’ll only need a few things:

• Wool roving in orange, white, or any color you want your pumpkin to be. I get mine from Benzie

• A small amount of poly-fil to be the core or center of your pumpkin 

• A felting needle (be careful – they’re sharp!)

• A felting mat or foam block to protect your work surface

• A small amount of green or brown wool roving for the stem

• Embroidery floss that matches the wool to help define the pumpkin sections

• Optional: Cinnamon sticks or little twigs (for a natural stem)

All set? Let’s jump in!

Step 1: Forming the Pumpkin Shape

To start, grab a small amount of poly-fil and roll it up into a small ball – about the size of a golf ball. Begin shaping it by rolling it in your hands. Then, using your felting needle, poke gently into the ball in a circular motion, keeping your fingers out of the way. As you continue, you’ll see the poly-fil start to firm up and take shape. The more you poke, the denser your pumpkin will be! You don’t need to spend too much time on this step because adding the roving will help shape your project even more. Once your poly-fil center is as big and firm as you want it, pull a section of your wool roving from the wool of your pumpkin color of choice and being wrapping the lengths of wool around your center. Using your felting needle, take each length of wool and begin to poke to secure it to the poly-fil. I usually start from the top and move down the sides of the pumpkin to the bottom center. You will do this step several times until you get your desired look and feel. As you go, be mindful of the shape and size you want to achieve. These can be made as big or as small as you want them to be, and it will be fun to experiment with different sizes and color combinations.

Pro Tip: Don’t worry about making it perfect! Little imperfections add to the pumpkin’s charm and make each one unique.

Step 2: Adding the Pumpkin Ridges

Once you have a nice, round shape, let’s give it that classic pumpkin look! Lightly indent the wool along the “sides” to create ridges. You can use your needle to press and poke along each ridge line, adding definition. Picture the natural segments of a pumpkin as you work – this step adds so much character. Another option is to use embroidery floss and wrap around the pumpkin, top to bottom, to create the sections as shown below.

Step 3: Creating the Stem

Now for the stem! Grab a small piece of green or brown wool roving or go au naturel with a mini cinnamon stick or twig. If you’re felting, twist the wool roving into a short, tight tube and use your needle to firm it up. Then attach it to the top of your pumpkin by gently felting it into place. If you’re using a cinnamon stick or twig, simply poke it into the top, adding a drop of glue if needed.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Give your pumpkin a final “fluff” to make sure it’s as firm or squishy as you’d like. And voilà – you have a tiny, felted pumpkin! You can make several in different sizes and colors, creating an adorable display for your table, mantle, or even as place settings for a cozy fall gathering.

A Few Fun Ideas to Use Your Felted Pumpkins

These little felted pumpkins are so versatile! Here are some ideas:

• Wreath Decor: Attach them to a wreath for a beautiful front-door decoration.

• Garlands: String a few together with twine for a fall-inspired garland.

• Gift Toppers: Add a felted pumpkin to a wrapped gift for an autumnal touch.

• Table Centerpieces: Arrange a few on your table with other fall items like acorns, mini pinecones, and leaves.

Enjoy the Process

Needle felting is such a meditative craft, and this pumpkin project is an ideal way to get into the fall spirit. It’s one of those activities that slows you down and lets you appreciate the season as you create something with your hands. So, brew a cup of tea, put on some cozy music, and enjoy every moment of this relaxing DIY.

Happy felting, friends!