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Penni Denton, Textiles, Sewing, Felting & Knitting

What is your craft?   Textiles.  Sewing, knitting, felting and needle felting

How long have you been doing it?
I have been sewing and knitting for over 40 years.  I began making mohair bears and bunnies 5 years ago.  I have been knitting handbags and felting them for 2.5 years.  I have been needle felting almost 2 years

Who/What inspired you to learn this craft?  My aunt Rita taught me to knit and sew when I was in school.  I have always loved teddy bears, and Treva Blackford inspired me to make bunnies and bears.  I took a class in felting knitted wool handbags, and the rest is history.
Penni showing off her felting craft.
Although Penni Denton has been working with textiles for over 40 years, needle felting is a relatively new skill for her
What is the name of your business/studio?  Where is it located?  What hours are you open?  How can people contact you about your work?  My business name is In Stitches, LLC.  I currently do not have a shop, as I work a full-time job Monday through Friday.  I do craft shows in our area and Virginia.  I may be contacted at 304-261-6945
holiday decorations made by Penni Denton.
Elaborate holiday decorations like this angel and Santa takes hours of time and complex design techniques

What are some of the things you make?  Jointed Artist’s bears and bunnies, needle felted Christmas ornaments, angels, Santa faces, and knit felted handbags.

What is your favorite/most unique/”signature” thing to make?  Minature needle felted animals.

What is the most challenging aspect of your craft?  Designing and making patterns.  

What is the most satisfying aspect of your craft?  Having people appreciate my work.

Do you have any goals or aspirations for the future related to your craft? I hope to be able to do crafts full time when I retire. I also would like to teach others some of the crafts I have learned over the years.
Why are you interested in preserving the heritage crafts? Once you try a craft and complete it, you gain a real appreciation of what the pioneers made.