Making Felt

Felt is often used in children's crafts. Felt can also be sewn into hats, clothing, pillows or other useful items. Making felt can be a fun afternoon activity for you and your kids.

You will need a flat surface to work on, one where it doesn't matter if it gets wet. You will also need hot water, laundry soap, a straw beach mat, a few towels, and, of course, some wool.

In summer months, I make felt outdoors, in a kid's swimming pool. You will need access to hot water. An electric kettle will work fine or a hose attached to your hot water tap. In winter, I make felt successfully in my bath tub.

When planning a project, remember that felt will shrink in size so you will need to make allowances for this. For example, a 24" square will shrink about 20% to approx 20" finished size. To make a 20" square piece of felt, you will need approx. 5 - 6 oz. of pure wool roving.

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