Ideas for using felted wool.

Using felted wool sweaters, or newly felted handmade fabric can be cheap and easy to do. Don't just throw away those shrunken wool items because they no longer fit. Make them into something else that's useful! Recycle them!

You'll need some old wool sweaters, felted or not. If they're not already felted, follow these instructions first. You can always find these at thrift stores if you've been smart and haven't felted any by accident. You will also need some good sharp scissors, a tape measure, needle and thread or yarn, and maybe some other bits and pieces depending on what you decide to make.

You can make any number of things using felted wool sweaters. Because the felting process is not reversible, you can cut into a piece of wool felt fabric without it fraying. This opens up MANY possibilities. I mean really - your imagination is your limit, well, just about!

You can try something small at first - like a super easy cat toy.

Here's your instructions...

Cut out a large circle (about 10 inches diameter).

(Running Stitch - push your needle (threaded with yarn) up and down through the felted wool at about half inch intervals.)

Starting and ending on the right side of the fabric, work running stitch all around the circle an inch in from the edge.

Take both ends of yarn together and pull a little to gather up the edge and form a small pouch.

Stuff some chopped up bits of felted wool or toy stuffing into the pouch and pull the ends tight to form a ball.

Tie off firmly with a good knot. Tie more pieces of yarn around the top too if you like. Braid them or just leave them as extra fun for your kitty.

If you're really feeling adventurous - maybe stitch on some eyes - and there you have it. Your first project using felted wool.

Won't your cat be really happy with you? (Ok maybe kids or little dogs might go for it too!)

Check out this information on recycled wool!

So - now that you've tried using felted wool in a project, aren't you hooked? Talking of 'hooked', you can make wool rag rugs too using felted wool. They're pretty easy to make, though they take a lot longer of course, and use lots more wool felt fabric. For more fun ideas see the list below. It's by no means everything, but you may find an idea you like. Just give one a try.

• Hats
• Purses or handbags
• Scarves
• Insoles
• Mittens
• Oven Mitts
• Tote bags
• Baby pants or dungarees
• Place mats
• Cushion covers
• Blankets or throws
• Appliques
• Slippers

...and the list goes on...

(You'll find instructions for some of these added as I build my site.)

Get the idea?

Wool felt fabric is so versatile, it's suited to many, many uses. How many things can you think of to make using felted wool? Just start thinking - maybe you can come up with more than me!! Just maybe!!

What is Worsted Wool? Find out here!
Why does wool shrink ? Check out the answers!
Find out more about Recycled Wool!
How to decide whether to wash or dry clean wool clothing.
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