So I've decided to give wool felting a shot. I just got some woad and cochneal dyed roving off eBay and I'm set to make the dubiously period viking fur hat. I've felted once before in an SCA class so I know how much sloppy grunt work is involved. I have two questions for now:
1. Is there anything more period than dish soap out there for felting?
2. In direct opposition of the 1rst question, is there a modern way to cheat at the kneading process and still come out with something that looks decent?
Thanks in advance.
Wool Felting
Moderator: Glen K
I believe you can use any kind of soap flakes - dish soap is commonly used because it is formulated to cut grease. Thus, more dish soap, less lanolin in your wool. Any kind of soap will do. Try grating some handmade lye soap or even a regular old bar of Ivory.
Or - just don't use soap. The hotness of the water and the compression/kneading is what makes the felting process work, not the soap. If your wool is not terribly greasy, or if you want a more waterproof cap, you can achieve felting with hot water alone.
I have heard of folks using rolling pins or fabric covered bricks to help with felting. Or a washing machine. That'll felt that wool for sure! Although it may not be hat shaped when you are done.......
Gwyneth
Or - just don't use soap. The hotness of the water and the compression/kneading is what makes the felting process work, not the soap. If your wool is not terribly greasy, or if you want a more waterproof cap, you can achieve felting with hot water alone.
I have heard of folks using rolling pins or fabric covered bricks to help with felting. Or a washing machine. That'll felt that wool for sure! Although it may not be hat shaped when you are done.......
Gwyneth
) felts stuff.