Thursday 6 December 2012

Felting Slippers Tips

Felting Slippers
is a time consuming activity. 
There's so much to think about
and the whole process can be overwhelming for a beginner - or even
if you haven't made a pair for a while. 


Here are a few tips which I find helpful.

The First is to always weigh your fleece
and divide it evenly between the two sides of the resist. 
For an especially even finish, then divide these two bundles
by the number of layers of fleece you'll be laying down on each side.
Weigh them out into bundles and to avoid confusion
I leave the bundles for the second side on another bench 
(sometimes distractions can make it difficult to remember exctly where you're at)
Then, spread them evenly, feathering out the edges slightly
(this will help prevent bulky side seams and chunky overlap 
when the edges are folded to the other side) 

The Second is to always try to only wet the area of the resist of your first side.
Leaving the edges as dry as possible makes it easier
to place the fleece ends where you need them when you turn them over.
This is especially helpful around curves and will also help prevent lumpy side seams.

The Third is on completion of the second side of your resist
- which will end up being the inside of the sole of the slipper, 
add a small woollen decoration.
When cutting the opening for your foot - do not cut the decorated side open.
This will ensure you always cut the top side of the slipper.

The Fourth is to felt until the fleece is quite firm over the resist.
This helps to mesh the fibres more densely before removing them from the resist.
You will find the edges of your cut easier to finish neatly 
and the slipper will keep a better shape.

The Last is that making the two slippers at the same time will most times
give you a better result since you'll have another to compare with as you work
and if you change a colour or pattern on one you can immediately do the same for the other.

You will find these tips handy whenever you work with a resist.

We're thinking of everyone out there enjoying a cold Christmas Season,
We have heat wave conditions here this week ! 

Thursday 29 November 2012

Mason Jar Lights up Felt !

Yet again it's been a while since I've posted.
I just wanted to share this little treasure I found in time for Christmas.
I was replacing damaged jars in the pantry and found a company selling Mason Jars online.
Not only was I able to stock up on jars for storage
but also for display.

You could purchase a mason jar of choice
and also this screw top solar light lid which lights up the contents of the jar.
I love the idea and the possibilities are endless ...
fill them with felted hearts, felt jelly beans or any of your favourite work.
A great idea for keeping your work dust free and safe from
pets and pests !
 

What is felting?

"FELT" The Essential Macquarie Dictionary meaning:

"A non woven fabric of wool, fur or hair matted together by pressure"

Fibres can be manipulated with the use of soap, water, friction and heat variations ..........or the use of barbed needles to create many interesting, practical and wearable things.

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