Felting FAQ

What is felting?

There are two types of felting: wet felting and dry (needle) felting. Felting, in it’s simplest terms, is causing protein fibers, usually wool, to bond together to form sheets or 3D objects.

“Felt is the oldest form of fabric known to humankind. It predates weaving and knitting, although there is archaeological evidence from the British Museum that the first known thread was made by winding vegetable fibers on the thigh.^{[citation needed]} In Turkey, the remains of felt have been found dating back at least to 6,500 BC. Highly sophisticated felted artifacts were found preserved in permafrost in a tomb in Siberia and dated to 600 AD.” (Wikipedia article)

What is wet felting?

Wet felting is the process of fusing wool fibers using soap, water and agitation. The scales on the fibers open then lock into each other forming a bond. (For some reason, wet wool just doesn’t like me so I generally stick to needle felting.)

What is needle felting?

Needle felting is a process originally developed for making industrial felt. Large beds of steel needles are used with loose fibers to create large sheets of felt for yard goods. Felting needles have barbed edges that push the fibers down causing them to tangle together.  We use the same industrial needles for making flat felt, embellishing and creating 3D soft sculpture.

How long has needle felting been around?

Although the industrial process has been around for about a century, needle felting was adopted as a handcraft in the 1980’s. Still relatively new, it has enjoyed increased popularity in recent years.

Are needle felted soft sculptures safe for children?

That depends! Some needle felted items are definitely intended for children, some are not. Simple, Waldorf-inspired dolls, bears and the like are wonderful children’s toys. However, like porcelain dolls, many soft sculptures are quite elaborate (and expensive) and really intended for the collector.

While most needle felted soft sculptures would be safe for children, they are generally not recommended for small children. Excessive handling can result in the outer fibers loosening and dirt is always a concern. As I say about Otto the Snail, he would be more than happy to attend the occasional tea party but doesn’t appreciate being dragged around by the eye stalks. Only you can judge whether a needle felted friend is a good fit for your child based on age and maturity.