Avoid Summer Stings

Try this fun and beautiful craft.

Felt is easy to make yourself once you understand the basics. You will need a wool batt, which can be purchased where you find weaving or spinning supplies. For enough felt to make a vest or two, the batt should be 2-3 inches thick and between 1 and 2 pounds. Carefully peel the layers of wool apart to make several thin layers. Arrange wool in even layers on a clean old bed sheet cut to 60 inches wide, changing the direction of the fibers with each layer: first right to left, then top to bottom. Four or more layers are best.

Fold a sheet over wool layers from two sides, then tightly roll it jelly roll fashion and tie it in several places along the length with string. Wash it in the washing machine in hot water with detergent for a full cycle. Open the sheet and peel away the felt! Dry flat. Press gently with a warm iron.

Color may be added with dyed wool fibers, strands of yarn or bits of fabric between the layers of wool, or use your imagination. Thickness of fabric is controlled by the layers of wool. Felt can make beautiful vests, hats, purses, Christmas stockings, blankets or dolls. Have fun!