Felting

Felting is a non-woven textile process that creates a cohesive fabric by matting, condensing, and pressing fibers together. Primarily wool, but also other animal fibers like mohair, alpaca, and even plant-based fibers like hemp, are subjected to agitation, usually with moisture and soap, causing the scales on the fibers to interlock permanently. The resulting felt can be dense and strong, or soft and pliable, depending on the fiber type and Felting technique used. This process is distinct from weaving, knitting, or crocheting because it does not involve interlacing threads but rather the entanglement of loose fibers. Felting is a versatile technique employed to create a vast array of items, from clothing and accessories to decorative items and industrial products, showcasing its adaptability and artistic potential.

Felting meaning with examples

• The artist employed the wet Felting method to create a vibrant landscape, carefully layering dyed wool fibers and agitating them with warm water and soap. This process allowed her to blend colours seamlessly and achieve a painterly effect. The resulting felt piece was then sculpted, demonstrating the flexibility of the material.
• She learned needle Felting to make whimsical animal figures. Using a barbed needle, she meticulously poked the wool roving, causing the fibers to tangle and form a solid shape. The process allows for detailed sculpting and is great for creating felt creatures.
• The medieval craft fair showcased various felted products, including sturdy hats and warm mittens crafted using traditional wet Felting methods. They also presented finely felted tapestries that were rich in colour and intricate in design, showing a timeless appeal of this technique.
• The company specialized in industrial Felting, producing dense felt pads for automotive applications. The process ensured the product was durable, helping to absorb sound and vibration. By compressing wool, the products were able to offer the best result possible.