Elk
Step into the process of creating a realistic needle felted elk, inspired by the quiet strength and presence of these animals in rural Oregon landscapes.
In this intermediate to advanced needle felting course, you’ll learn how to build a strong internal structure, shape large forms with confidence, and refine surface details to bring your elk to life. This tutorial focuses on more than just steps—it teaches you how to observe, interpret, and make decisions as you work, which is where real growth happens.
Elk are powerful, grounded animals, and capturing that in wool takes intention. Throughout this course, you’ll be guided through proportion, body structure, layering wool, and developing natural texture so your finished piece feels solid, balanced, and believable.
This course is best suited for felters who already understand the basics and are ready to move into more complex builds. While I walk you through the process, there’s also space for you to think through choices and adjust along the way. And if you get stuck, you can always ask questions inside the course.
By the end, you’ll have a finished elk sculpture and a deeper understanding of how to approach larger, more advanced needle felting projects.
Join and get access to every tutorial Rustic Fiber Academy has and so much more.
Or purchase the course individually and have full permanent access to it.
* Supplies not included *
What's included with each lesson
Step by step instructions
Detailed instructions that guide you through the creation of each project from start to finish, ensuring you don't miss a single step along the way!
Group discussions inside each course
Ask questions and share progress for focused group discussions. Separate from the larger membership board, each project fosters its own tight-knit bunch!
Tutorials in video and written information
Each project features a mix of both video and written tutorials to suit different learning styles and techniques, all delivered by our expert Rustic Fiber Academy teachers!
Supplies list
A curated list of all the materials you'll need for each project, making it easy to gather everything you need before you start.
Meet Your Instructor
Patrick Jones - Course author
Christie Lower
Needle Felt Artist, Teacher & Founder of Rustic Fiber Academy
Hi, I'm Christie Lower, the artist behind Rustic Fiber. My journey into the world of needle felting began nearly five years ago, when I was seeking a creative outlet to balance the demands of motherhood and find a sense of calm. What started as a simple hobby during my son's activities evolved into a deep passion for needle felting and textile sculptures.
Inspired by the animals and nature surrounding my home in Eastern Oregon, I sculpt lifelike birds and wildlife using wool, a needle, and sometimes a base or metal structure. My work pays homage to my beloved Grandma, who had a special kinship with birds. After her passing, I used her leather gloves to protect my hands while felting—a serendipitous gift that made me feel connected to her. My series on the birds of North America is a tribute to her love for these beautiful creatures.
Recently, my exhibition at Art Center East, titled "Fiber and Flights," showcased my signature style of vibrant and detailed fiber sculptures, capturing the essence of birds in flight. From barn owls to kestrels, each piece reflects my craftsmanship and artistic vision. What sets my work apart is my dedication to creating full-scale sculptures, blending techniques and materials to blur the lines between sculpture and textile art. I often paint my sculptures to achieve striking details and lifelike appearances, using a full palette of differently colored wool to infuse each piece with vibrancy.
Through Rustic Fiber Academy, I share my techniques with a global community of fiber art enthusiasts via online classes and workshops. My platform fosters creativity and skill development, providing a space for learning and collaboration among aspiring artists. Rustic Fiber Academy is more than just a platform—it's a tribute to my family, heritage, and the transformative power of creativity.
Take your craft to the next level
Elk
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