Yarn can also be felted by using a similar technique.
A common fabric used in many craft projects is felt. Felt is a flat, almost rough piece of material that is actually made from matted wool. Through the addition of water, liquid detergent and a massaging technique, the wool fibers open. After working with the wool for several minutes, the fibers tangle and begin to bind together. Once the wool is cool and dry, the fibers lock, creating felt.
Instructions
1. Choose a 1/2 oz. section of wool. Divide the pile of wool into three portions, all equal in size.
2. Place a 9-inch cake pan on a table or flat surface. Lay the wool in the pan and spread it out, covering the bottom of the pan. Place all fibers in the same direction. Lay the second portion of wool over the first layer, at a right angle to the portion beneath. Lay the last layer on top. Lay the fibers cross-way to the middle layer.
3. Spray liquid dish detergent on the top layer of wool. Pour a 1/2 cup of hot water on the entire pile.
4. Push down on the pile of wool with the right hand. This will compress all three layers to the bottom of the cake pan. Pour more hot water on the wool, so it is all wet. Press until the wool is flat.
5. Massage the wool with your fingertips, starting at the outside edge and working toward the center for five to 10 minutes. Hold the pan to the table to make the massaging easier. Rotate the pan as the massaging continues, which will give the wool a smoother finish.
6. Turn the wool pile over and continue massaging, working from the edges to the center. Add hot water and more liquid detergent if the wool becomes too dry.
7. Rinse the wool with warm water, removing all of the soap. Add a small amount of cold water, and squeeze the wool to remove the excess water. The felt should be about 1/8 inch thick when finished.
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