Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Needle felted whimsical creatures by Hillary Gillick

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Hillary Gillick, lives in Seattle with her husband and their real-life lizard pets Kali and Salvador Mali.. Hillary contributed a project to “Feltique” the book that I reviewed a couple weeks ago. When I held the needle felted earring kit giveaway. Hillary’s adorable Cupcake Chomper was featured in the book. She tells me she gravitates towards the strange, absurd and surreal ( in craft and in life) and generally thinks that everything is better with tentacles. Hillary relates; “I love to create – and needle felting has been and continues to be an amazing way to capture and bring to life the denizens that roam through my head”.   Her needle felting is as smooth as a baby’s bottom without a fiber out of place. She also creates art depicting the Squiddy Bear, Schnoozle Doot Doot, and more. Her work is definitely strikingly unconventional and amusing.  Their caricatures definitely put a smile on anyone’s face.  Hillary can be found on Flickr and as a ETSY shop called Hillyhill that you must visit.  I’d like to thank Hillary, for bringing a little humor into our lives with your whimsical creatures.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]