About the Artist
Rooted deeply in the landscapes of Eastern Oregon, Christie Lower creates sculptural wool work that reflects the stillness, textures, and quiet stories found in nature. Her needle-felted pieces are known for their lifelike detail and subtle expression, each shaped through hours of layering, refining, and careful observation. Christie’s artistic practice is guided by a deep respect for wildlife, craftsmanship, and the meditative rhythm of working with wool.
A letter from the artist.
I am Christie the artist behind Rustic Fiber.
A few years ago Rustic Fiber was nothing more then a thought. Since then it has been dreamt into reality.
The sole purpose of creating this site is to showcase my obsession with all things needle felt related.
Almost 5 years ago now I had my beautiful baby boy. Being someone who has always been creative I was on the hunt for a creative outlet that I could easily do with a newborn. Also during this time one of the most important people in my life, my Grandma was battling cancer. Right before she passed I stumbled upon a YouTube video on needle felting. I ordered a beginners kit and before it arrived she passed away.
My husband, me and my baby boy left town to be with my family for a bit. While we were visiting my Grandpa gave me a pair of my Grandma's leather gloves. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with them besides keep them as a keepsake. When we got home my needle felt kit had arrived. I immediately started using it and was obsessed. But one thing I didn't realize was, especially as a beginner, you poke yourself a lot. I needed a leather glove. Guess what, I had one.
For many months after that I wore my Grandma's glove while felting. To this day I believe my Grandma gifted me with felting. The timing was serendipitous. I needed stress relief and calm, something needle felting offered. The reason I create and why I am doing a series on the birds of North America is to honor her. She was a bird lover, not a birder but instead she had a kinship with birds. She adored them and they, like all the rest of the creatures, adored her.
If she were here today, I'm sorry but none of you would be able to own any of my birds, she would claim them all for herself.
Welcome to Rustic Fiber!
-Christie Lower
Questions & Answers
What materials does Christie use in her work?
Christie works primarily with natural wool sourced from a variety of breeds to achieve specific textures and densities. Each sculpture is created entirely by hand using traditional needle-felting techniques and a slow, layered approach that allows for refined detail.
How long does each sculpture take to create?
Every piece varies depending on size and complexity, but most works require many hours—often spread across days or weeks. Christie’s process is patient and intentional, centered on building structure, refining form, and developing lifelike expression.
Does Christie accept custom pieces?
Yes. Commissions are considered individually based on subject matter, timeline, and artistic fit. More information can be found in the Inquiries & Commissions section on the Gallery page.
Where else can her work be seen?
Christie regularly participates in exhibitions, seasonal shows, and regional art events. Selected works have also become part of private collections. Current and upcoming exhibitions are listed on the Events or Gallery page when available.
Does Christie teach needle felting?
Yes. She is the founder and instructor of Rustic Fiber Academy, an online learning space offering structured courses and resources for students of all skill levels.
How can someone stay updated on new work?
Visitors can join the Studio Updates list for occasional emails featuring new artwork, upcoming exhibits, studio notes, and select news from Rustic Fiber Academy.