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 !