The felting process
I thought I should start with some pics and an explanation of the process of felt making. I had a whole day to work today thanks to my wonderful husband, and I managed to finish off a couple of pieces. This scarf took me all afternoon, but I think the end result is worth the effort.First I take my hand-dyed silk and lay down two or three layers of fine merino wool in the pattern I want.
When I am happy with the design I boil the kettle and fill a watering can with hot soapy water
I carefully cover the scarf with soap and water ensuring that my design doesn't shift
Next I cover the whole lot with bubble wrap and exhaust myself by rubbing/banging/rolling the scarf.
I have to keep checking my work and fixing the edges to keep it all as neat as possible.
Once I am satisfied that my design is holding together well it is ready to be fully felted by throwing it! The whole process can shrink the scarf by up to 40%! To finish, I rinse it and shape it before leaving it to dry.
The finished product!!
