Flower Elf
Based on the image of a flower, this design features highly textured natural fibers, nuno felting techniques, freeform crochet, and abstract embroidery. This costume was entirely handmade using only materials I already had on hand. I upcycled multiple base garments and repurposed a variety of leftovers to bring this look together.
Created: July 2019
Collaborators: Wig sponsored by Arda Wigs
Ears provided by Geekling Creations
Making Of
The base layer of this dress was created with nuno felting techniques, which compresses wool fiber and silk into a brand new fabric. The felting process creates a unique surface texture with an earthy, organic design which takes on its own character and idiosyncrasies. I stitched these felted pieces together by hand to avoid visible seamlines, instead using embroidery stitches to add additional texture and detail.
The vines were created through freeform crochet as a separate layer. I started with a form and began adding yarn in random directions to create the vine style. This is one of my favorite techniques and makes for an extremely relaxing activity.
This costume incorporated many upcycled materials and fibers leftover from previous projects. My goal was to avoid buying new materials, and I did it successfully by using up a lot of supplies I already had on hand.
