I’m Freya, once an illustration enthusiast, and now a proud dog mom to two fluffy Schnauzers. One day, while they were peacefully snoring in my arms, I looked at them and suddenly realized that their lives are only a few short years long. The time I have with them is gradually slipping away, and that thought left me feeling a bit disoriented. I decided to do something to capture their adorable moments, so I began experimenting with needle felting to create portraits of them. Though my first piece was far from perfect, it sparked a deep passion for the craft and slowly changed my life.
I quickly realized that many pet owners might wish to have custom wool felt portraits of their pets—whether to memorialize a beloved companion who has passed or as a meaningful gift. These wool felt portraits provide a tangible connection to our animal friends, preserving their memories and personalities in a unique way.
On this new journey, I knew I needed to master more needle felting techniques to create lifelike custom portraits. To better understand the structure and posture of pets, I spent a lot of time observing my dogs, paying close attention to their skeletal structure, muscle distribution, and natural movements. I also looked through countless pet photos and videos to capture the subtle differences between breeds.
To simulate the unique textures of different breeds’ fur, I experimented with various wool blends. By mixing colored wool, I achieved very natural tones and patterns, and used special needle felting techniques to give the portraits a three-dimensional quality.
Along the way, I discovered that each pet has its own distinctive personality and characteristics. I began to notice the small details that make each animal special—the tilt of a dog’s head, the unique shape of its ears, or the subtle curve of its nose. These little nuances became the heart of my work, making each wool felt portrait come to life.
As my skills improved, I started taking orders from friends and family. Their feedback made me realize that my work didn’t just capture the pets' appearance—it also reflected their essence and spirit. This encouragement pushed me to continue refining my craft, and with the full support of my husband, we co-founded Paw Paw Stitches, so that more people could have these unique, lasting mementos. At Paw Paw Stitches, every pet gets a chance to be reborn!
Now, when I begin a new pet felting project—whether it’s an order from Paw Paw Stitches.com or a private commission—I pour my heart into every detail. I carefully study the photos my clients send, learning about their pets’ stories. Then, using my hands and skills, I transform those precious memories into tangible works of art.
For me, this is not just a job—it’s a way to bring love and memories to life. I find great fulfillment in this work and am thrilled to be able to share it with others.
Ready to create a permanent souvenir to your furry friend?
We’d love to craft a custom wool felt portrait for you, paying attention to every little detail. Place your order now, and let’s bring your pet’s personality to life in a unique and adorable way!