When attempting a new craft, I’ve always felt it easiest to start small and gradually work my way into it. Felt, one of the oldest fabrics, is making a comeback. Ideal for its versatility, affordability, accessibility and fuzzosity, it’s no wonder DIYers everywhere are taking their scissors to the streets.

In Felt Underground: 12 Hip Projects from the Urban Crafts Revolution, compiled by Marisa Mouton (of Urban Craft Uprising fame), DIY crafters from the US and Canada show you 12 easy ways to transform a sheet of felt into a cute and functional accessory. All 12 projects have detailed directions and color photos to guide you, and helpful hints are offered after each project that allow for individualization. The book also includes a brief history of felt, as well as all the supplies necessary to make the first three projects!

Felt Underground also has a strong Etsy connection. Reading the contributor list in the back of the book, I was amazed to see that all of the contributors had Etsy shops!
•    Alison Odowski (appleseeds) contributed a bird-adorned makeup case and an apple-adorned checkbook cover.
•    Mary Bell (pinxit) contributed an eye-popping black shoulder bag.
•    Derya Aksoy (jewelera) contributed an adorable wire and bead flower necklace.
•    Wendy Aracich (circlecircledotdot) contributed a vintage-inspired headband.
•    Colleen Baran (colleenbaran) contributed an ever-changing amoeba wire bracelet.
•    Tana Lauristen (ponybeaver) contributed a playful striped throw pillow.  
•    Emily Sessions (technocutie) contributed a modern floral sash belt and an argyle laptop case.
•    Jenny Conte (monkeydocollective) contributed a “Zippy Monster” pencil case and an iPod cozy.
•    And yours truly, Melissa Oat (hobocampcrafts), contributed a knotty t-shirt scarf.

Perfect for the inquisitive felting mind, The Felt Underground provides the groundwork to familiarize you with the wonderful medium of felt. This book-combo kit is sure to open up a new perspective for young and old crafters everywhere—whether you’re a novice or a felting mad scientist, everyone can learn something from this kit!

Exclusively available at Barnes & Noble stores here.