Crafting with wool offers endless possibilities, and two of the most versatile wool types are boiled wool and felted wool. Each material brings unique qualities to a variety of creative projects. Whether making home décor items, fashion accessories, or DIY gifts, understanding the differences between boiled wool and felted wool is essential for choosing the suitable material for your project.
In this guide, we’ll explore five popular projects that you can create using boiled or felted wool and provide insights on how to felt wool by hand, what boiled wool is, and how to make felt. We’ll also cover the difference between boiled wool vs felted wool and how each serves different crafting needs.
What is Boiled Wool?
Boiled wool is a textile that exposes woven wool fabric to heat and moisture, shrinking the fibres and making them denser. This process results in a thicker, more durable, and more resistant to wind and moisture fabric. The tight weave of boiled wool makes it ideal for coats, jackets, and hats that need insulation.
What is Felted Wool?
Felted wool is a non-woven fabric that compresses wool fibres using heat, moisture, and agitation. Unlike boiled wool, which is made from woven wool, felted wool is produced from loose fibres matted together to form a dense and firm fabric. Felted wool is often used for various craft projects, from fashion accessories to decorative items, because it is easy to cut and shape without fraying.
Wool vs Felt: Key Differences
While both boiled wool and felted wool are made using heat and moisture, their properties differ significantly due to the processes involved:
- Boiled wool: Derived from woven wool, boiled wool is durable, stretchy, and resistant to fraying, making it ideal for outerwear.
- Felted wool: Made from compressed wool fibres, it has a firmer texture and doesn’t stretch. It’s more suitable for crafts where precise shapes are needed.
Now that you understand the two wool types let’s dive into five exciting projects you can create using boiled or felted wool.
1. Felted Wool Coasters
Felted wool coasters are a popular DIY project due to the material’s durability and absorbency. They are easy to make and perfect for adding a rustic charm to your home.
Materials Needed:
- Felted wool sheets
- Scissors
- Needle and thread (optional for embellishments)
How to Make Felted Wool Coasters:
- Start by selecting a sheet of felted wool in your preferred color.
- Cut the wool into circular or square shapes to form the coasters.
- Add embellishments by sewing on decorative patterns or initials.
- Enjoy your handmade coasters that protect your surfaces from heat and moisture.
Felted wool coasters are ideal because they won’t fray, and their dense texture absorbs any liquid drips.
2. Boiled Wool Slippers
Slippers made from boiled wool are both cozy and practical, thanks to the warmth and water resistance of the fabric. They can be customized to fit any foot size and make an excellent handmade gift.
Materials Needed:
- Boiled wool fabric
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Fabric for lining (optional)
Steps to Create Boiled Wool Slippers:
- Cut out a slipper pattern that fits your foot.
- Sew the pieces of boiled wool together, allowing your feet to slip in comfortably.
- Optionally, add a fabric lining for extra warmth and comfort.
- Decorate the slippers with embroidery or felted wool accents.
These slippers are perfect for colder months, as the boiled wool insulates your feet and offers durability.
3. Felted Wool Bags
Felted wool bags are stylish, sturdy, and environmentally friendly. You can create anything from tote bags to small pouches using felted wool, and they’re perfect for everyday use or as unique gifts.
Materials Needed:
- Felted wool (can be made at home using loose wool fibers)
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Handles (optional)
How to Felt Wool by Hand:
- Take loose wool fibers and soak them in warm, soapy water.
- Agitate the fibers by rubbing them together in your hands.
- Continue this process until the fibers bind together to form a dense fabric.
- Rinse the fabric and let it dry completely.
Steps to Make a Felted Wool Bag:
- Cut the felted wool into the shape and size of your desired bag.
- Sew the sides together, leaving the top open.
- Add handles or a closure if needed.
- Decorate with buttons, felted flowers, or other accessories.
Felted wool bags are easy to make, and the material’s non-fraying edges mean you won’t need to worry about hemming.
4. Boiled Wool Hats
Boiled wool hats are warm, water-resistant, and have a naturally elegant drape. Making your own boiled wool hat allows you to customize the fit and design to suit your personal style.
Materials Needed:
- Boiled wool fabric
- Hat pattern
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
Steps to Make a Boiled Wool Hat:
- Cut out the pieces of your hat pattern from the boiled wool fabric.
- Sew the pieces together to create the hat shape.
- Add any decorative elements, such as a ribbon or bow.
- Try it on and adjust the fit as necessary.
Boiled wool hats are perfect for chilly weather and can be a fashionable addition to any wardrobe.
5. Felted Wool Holiday Ornaments
Felted wool is perfect for crafting holiday ornaments, as it’s easy to shape and doesn’t fray. You can make ornaments in a variety of designs, including stars, trees, and hearts.
Materials Needed:
- Felted wool sheets
- Scissors
- Needle and thread
- Embroidery floss or yarn for decoration
Steps to Make Felted Wool Ornaments:
- Cut out shapes from the felted wool, such as stars or hearts.
- Sew two pieces together, stuffing them with wool to create a 3D effect.
- Use embroidery floss or yarn to add decorative stitches or hangers.
- Hang them on your tree or use them as handmade gift toppers.
These ornaments are quick to make and add a personal touch to your holiday décor.
How to Make Felt: A Simple Guide
If you want to try making felt from scratch for your projects, follow these steps:
- Gather loose wool fibres or wool roving.
- Fill a basin with warm, soapy water and submerge the wool.
- Agitate the fibres by rubbing them together until they start to bond and form a fabric.
- Rinse out the soap and let the felt dry.
Making felt by hand allows you to create custom textures and colors for any project.
Conclusion
Boiled wool and felted wool offer an array of possibilities for creative projects. Whether making cozy boiled wool slippers or stylish felted wool bags, these materials are easy to work with and provide long-lasting results. By understanding the critical differences between boiled wool vs felted wool and learning how to felt wool by hand, you can embark on a variety of DIY projects with confidence. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or a beginner, boiled and felted wool offers a sustainable, versatile, and rewarding crafting experience.
Yarning Wools is your go-to destination if you’re looking for premium-quality wool at affordable prices. We offer a wide range of wool types, including core wool, felted wool, and boiled wool, ensuring that every crafting project is met with superior materials.
Explore our blog: https://yarningwools.com/what-is-felt
