MAKING FELT YARDAGE

FELTING STAGE:

This is the beginning stage of felting where the fibers become entangled, but do not completely lock down. Shrinkage has not occurred at this point.

Step 1: Layout the wool roving on the pool cover and place muslin fabric in the middle layer (optional). When fabric is incorporated into felt it allows you to make stronger, thinner felt.

Step 2: Next sprinkle wool with soapy water made from olive oil soap.

Step 3: Place the swim noodle on the end, roll it up tightly and then secure with rope.Roll back and forth and from time to time unroll and reposition the felt so it is rolled in every direction.

Here is a picture of felt at the end of the felting stage. The fibers have become entangled but the felt is too fragile to be functional.

FULLING STAGE:
This is the final stage of felting where shrinking occurs. The felt becomes dense and the fibers are permanently locked in place.

How do I full my felt? I simply remove it from the pool cover and roll it directly on the table using a kneading action with my hands. I am also sure to roll in all directions. This is my favorite part of the process. I love feeling with my hands the soft felt gradually progress into firm felt.


Design: After my yardage is made, I needle felt on a design using wool roving and yarn. These dry wool fibers are poked with a barbed needle until they are pushed down, matted and locked.