Friday, November 7, 2008

Fun with Felting

As if I don't have enough to keep me busy this time of year, I decided to gather some supplies and try my hand at felting. So many people have asked why I don't spin my own yarn. I'm sure it is fun, but I wouldn't have time to knit and crochet the designs that I love to make. So, for me to buy carded wool and roving, was a bit shocking. There it was all gathered together and me without a clue as to what exactly to do. I've read several blogs and watched a few videos on feltmaking, specifically on how to make a scarf.
Tip #1 don't try it outside on a breezy day. I started laying out my fibers on the batting and the wind blew them all over the place. So, I went to the basement. This is a messy wet project and it didn't matter if I got the basement wet.
Tip #2 use a sturdy work surface. I used a fold-up craft table and it was rocking all over the place!
It ended up being a little too thick and wide for a scarf, but a wonderful fabric nonetheless. The picture doesn't pick up the gold sparkle throughout. I am thinking that, with a sturdy lining and shoulder strap, it could be made into a fabulous bag.
Tip #3 keep trying. It was fun and I'll definitely try again. I also have a silk scarf that I want to try felting the fibers onto. I want to dye it first. I also have some yarn to dye...but I've never dyed before. Yet another thing to try.
So, that's what I've been working on, along with more shrugs, sweaters, hats, and fingerless gloves for upcoming shows. Busy time of year!

11 comments:

uniquecommodities said...

I love it! If you make it into a purse let me know the cost! I may have to consider buying it! The color combination is gorgeeous!

Alpaca Granny said...

Hey, good for you for trying new stuff. The felt looks lovely.
Maple

rose AKA Walk in the Woods - she/her said...

Wonderful! Have fun and learn and explore and create and grow!

agoodwitchtoo said...

Love the colors too! You know with a little more practice you're totally going to rock the felting! :)

Jenni said...

My first couple of forays into felting were adventures too. I made a hat that came out flat rather than hat-shaped. LOL! It's fun though! Don't be put off by one felting try gone amok...there is lots moer fun to be had!

High Desert Diva said...

I think it turned out fab!

FiberBeads said...

I went to our local spinners and weavers show and sale this weekend. It had a lot of felting! I love the colors you've chosen. When I see this fiber I always see a set of lovely fiber beads, grin. Nice job!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful color combination! you can never have enough fiber. It's what makes you regular.

maryeb said...

This is not something I've ever tried, but it does look interesting. I hope if you try again you'll post the results.
I have felted a couple of bowls that I knitted. Maybe I'll get around to posting some pics.

Anonymous said...

It looks interesting. Love the colors.

Shell Mitchell said...

Wow - it turned out fabulous. keep at it!

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