The delights of felt

Felt is a most versatile fabric that can be used to produce a huge variety of things. Although most crafters will associate felt with toys, clothing, hats, accessories and jewellery, a quick read on Wikipedia reveals that felt is also used, among other things, in the automotive industry and in musical instruments.

Being so versatile is one of the reasons why I enjoy using felt for the vast majority of my items.  It is so easy to work with (no hemming!) and comes in a large range of colours.  You can buy 100% wool felt (the bees knees of the felt world), a wool blend or acrylic.  I quite often buy a couple of sheets of felt from outlets to boost my supply, but colours are usually quite standard..  For a far more interesting selection of shades and types there are many supply shops on line that boast a glorious rainbow to choose from.

So what springs to mind when thinking of felt?  Do you think it's old fashioned or for the young, or does the felt shape picture activity toy pop into your head? Someone mentioned to me recently that they wouldn't consider a felt necklace because felt was for the young.  Really?  Looking through Folksy and Etsy there are some amazing felt accessories and jewellery available that, in my opinion, would look quite stunning whatever age you are.

Here's a selection of pretty felt goodies I've picked from Folksy.  Just click on the photo to visit the shop.


Lillibets


Rambag


The Laughing Thimble


Silent Companions


daisy crazy creations

And finally, while on the subject of felt, who saw this article about Lucy Sparrow who opened a London shop completely stocked with everyday corner shop items completely hand stitched from felt.  What utter patience, dedication and a whole lot of fun!