Sew Like a Pro: Mastering the Art of Working with Felt

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Have you ever admired cute felt crafts and wondered how they were made? Perhaps you have a keen eye for home decor and have spotted unique felt pillows or wall hangings that caught your attention. Or, maybe you’re just looking for a new hobby to dive into. Whatever your reason may be, learning how to sew with felt is a valuable skill that can open up a world of creative possibilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the basics of working with this versatile fabric and provide helpful tips to get you started on your felting journey. So grab your needle and thread, because we’re about to show you how to sew with felt like a pro!

What is Felt and Why is it Used for Sewing?

Felt is a textile material that has been around for centuries. It is made by matting and compressing fibers together using heat, moisture, and pressure. Felt can be made from natural materials such as wool, or synthetic fibers like polyester. It is known for its soft and fuzzy texture, which makes it a popular choice for a variety of sewing projects.

One of the main reasons why felt is used for sewing is its versatility. It comes in different thicknesses, colors, and textures, making it suitable for various applications. Felt can be easily cut into different shapes without fraying or unraveling, making it an ideal fabric for applique work. Its texture also allows it to be easily manipulated and sewn onto other fabrics.

Another reason why felt is commonly used in sewing is its durability. The matted fibers make it strong and resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for items that will get frequent use like bags, hats, or stuffed toys.

Felt also has insulating properties due to its thickness and composition, making it perfect for cold-weather projects such as scarves or mittens.

Finally, felt’s affordability makes it a favorite among crafters. It is relatively inexpensive compared to other fabrics, which makes it accessible to beginners and professionals alike.

Different Types of Felt

There are various types of felt available on the market today. The type of felt you choose will depend on the project you have in mind. Here are some of the common types of felt used in sewing:

1) Wool Felt – This type of felt is made from 100% wool fibers and has a natural look and feel. It comes in different weights ranging from lightweight to heavyweight depending on the percentage of wool used in its production.

2) Acrylic Felt – Acrylic felt is a synthetic type of felt made from 100% acrylic fibers. It is an affordable option and comes in a wide variety of colors and prints.

3) Polyester Felt – As the name suggests, this type of felt is made from polyester fibers. It is less expensive than wool felt and often used for projects that require a lot of fabric.

4) Blended Felt – Blended felt is a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. It offers the best qualities of both types, such as the softness and warmth of wool, combined with the durability and affordability of synthetics.

How to Choose the Right Felt for Your Project

Selecting the right type and weight of felt is crucial for the success of your sewing project. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the appropriate felt:

1) Project Type – The first thing to consider is what you will be making. If you’re creating a delicate item like clothing or accessories, opt for lightweight or medium-weight wool or blended felt. For more robust items like bags or home decor, heavyweight felts or blends are ideal.

2) Color – Felt comes in a wide range of colors, so it’s essential to select one that will complement your project. When working with multiple colors, make sure they coordinate well together.

3) Durability – If your project will get frequent use or needs to withstand wear and tear (like children’s toys or bags), choose heavyweight wool or blended felts that will last longer.

4) Budget – Consider how much you’re willing to spend on materials for your project. Wool felts tend to be more expensive than synthetics, so if budget is a concern, opt for acrylic or polyester felts.

Tools needed for Sewing with Felt

Sewing with felt doesn’t require any special equipment; however, having the right tools can make your sewing experience more comfortable and efficient. Here are some essential tools for sewing with felt:

1) Sewing Machine – While it is possible to hand sew with felt, a sewing machine will make the process quicker and produce neater stitches.

2) Needles – When hand sewing, use sharp, thin needles with a small eye. For machine sewing, use size 11 or 14 needles.

3) Pins – Straight pins are useful for holding felt pieces together before sewing. Use fine pins with small heads to avoid leaving holes in your fabric.

4) Scissors – A good pair of scissors is essential when working with felt. Avoid using scissors with dull blades as they can cause the edges of the felt to fray.

5) Sewing thread – Use a high-quality thread that matches the color of your felt for best results.

Tips for Sewing With Felt

Sewing with felt may seem straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure your project turns out beautifully:

1) Pre-wash your felts before starting your project to prevent shrinkage or distortion after sewing.

2) Use a size 11 or 14 needle when machine sewing with felt to avoid needle breakage.

3) It’s always best to use

What is Felt and Why is it a Popular Fabric for Sewing?

Felt is a unique type of fabric that has been used for centuries in various sewing projects. It is most commonly made from animal fibers such as sheep, alpaca, or camel hair. The fibers are tightly woven together to create a dense, durable fabric that can be easily cut and manipulated.

So why is felt such a popular choice for sewing? First and foremost, felt is extremely versatile. It can be used for a wide range of projects, from clothing to home decor and even children’s toys. Its soft texture makes it ideal for applications where comfort is important, such as pillows or stuffed animals.

Another reason for felt’s popularity in the sewing world is its affordability. Compared to other fabrics, felt is relatively inexpensive and can be found in a variety of colors and textures. This makes it accessible to sewers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.

Additionally, felt does not fray like other fabrics do when cut which eliminates the need for edge finishing techniques such as serging or hemming. This also means that felting doesn’t require any special tools or techniques, making it an easy and quick material to work with.

Lastly, felt has excellent stability and structure which makes it an ideal choice for creating 3-dimensional projects such as hats or bags. Its stiffness allows it to stand up on its own without the need for additional reinforcement.

The Tools You Need To Start Sewing With Felt

When starting any new sewing project, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. This especially applies when working with felt as this fabric requires some special consideration when cutting and sewing.

The first tool you’ll need is a sharp pair of scissors. Since felt does not fray when cut, having sharp scissors will help you achieve clean cuts without causing any jagged edges.

Another essential tool is a good cutting mat. Since felt is thick and can dull your cutting blades quickly, having a protective surface to work on is important. A self-healing cutting mat is ideal, but a regular hard surface will suffice as long as you use sharp scissors.

Next, consider investing in a rotary cutter. This tool glides effortlessly through felt, making it easier to cut intricate or curved shapes compared to scissors. Just remember to use a sharp blade and replace it if it begins to dull.

Lastly, a sewing machine with an adjustable needle position and stitch width is recommended for sewing with felt. Different types of felt may require different needle positions and stitch widths to achieve the desired results.

Preparing Felt for Sewing

Before diving into your project, there are a few steps you should take to properly prepare your felt for sewing.

Firstly, wash and dry your felt before cutting into it. This will rid the fabric of any excess lint or debris that may cause issues during the sewing process.

Next, consider stabilizing your felt if you plan on sewing small or intricate pieces together. Due to its thickness, felt can easily move around while being sewn which can result in uneven or wonky seams. Stabilizing your fabric with interfacing or another lightweight fabric will help keep it in place.

If you’re working with wool or wool-blend felt, lightly steaming the fabric can also help relax any wrinkles or creases caused by washing.

Lastly, when cutting out your pattern pieces from the felt, try using pattern weights rather than pins. This will prevent any unwanted holes in the material while keeping everything in place for precise cutting.

Tips for Sewing With Felt

Now that you have all the necessary tools and have properly prepared your fabric, it’s time to start sewing! Here are some tips to keep in mind while working with felt:

– Use a longer stitch length (3mm or higher) when sewing with felt. This will help prevent the fabric from puckering or bunching up.
– Avoid backstitching at the beginning and end of your seams. Instead, tie off the threads or use a lock stitch to secure them.
– When joining two pieces of felt together, use a running stitch rather than a backstitch. This will result in a neater seam on the right side of your project.
– If you’re sewing small pieces of felt together, use applique scissors with a curved blade for more precise cutting.
– When pressing seams, use a pressing cloth or iron on the lowest setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
– Consider using embroidery stitches such as blanket stitch or whip stitch for decorative detailing on your project.

Project Ideas for Sewing With Felt

There are countless projects that can be created using felt. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

– Handmade plush toys such as animals, dolls, or puppets
– Cozy blankets and pillows
– Felted hats, scarves, and gloves
– Decorative wall hangings or banners
– Book covers or cases
– Christmas ornaments and decorations

With its

Q: What is felt?
A: Felt is a type of fabric made from compressed and matted fibers, typically from wool or synthetic materials.

Q: What needle should I use when sewing with felt?
A: It is recommended to use a fine, sharp needle such as a universal or embroidery needle when sewing with felt.

Q: Can I wash felt fabric?
A: It is not recommended to wash felt fabric as it can cause it to shrink and distort. Spot cleaning or dry cleaning is the best method for maintaining the integrity of felt fabric.

Q: How do I prevent fraying when sewing with felt?
A: To prevent fraying, use small stitches and avoid pulling the thread too tightly. You can also apply a small amount of clear nail polish on the edges of the felt to help seal and prevent fraying.

Q: Can I use a sewing machine to sew with felt?
A: Yes, a sewing machine can be used for sewing with felt. Just be sure to use a fine needle and adjust the tension settings if needed.

Q: How do I transfer patterns onto felt?
A: Patterns can be transferred onto felt by using tracing paper and a sharp pencil. Place the tracing paper on top of the pattern and trace over it onto the felt. Alternatively, you can use chalk or dressmaker’s carbon paper.

In conclusion, learning how to sew with felt can be a fulfilling and enjoyable skill to add to one’s repertoire. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sewer, the tips and techniques discussed in this guide can help you create beautiful and unique projects with this versatile fabric. Remember to choose the right materials, prepare and cut your felt properly, and use the appropriate stitching techniques for your desired result. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different stitches, embellishments, and designs to add your personal touch to each project.

Moreover, it is important to highlight the benefits of working with felt as a fabric. From its soft texture and vibrant colors to its ease of use for both hand-sewing and machine-sewing, felt offers endless possibilities for creative expression. With its affordable price point and availability in various sizes and styles, it is a great option for crafters of all levels.

Lastly, sewing with felt not only allows us to create beautiful items but also requires focus and attention to detail. This makes it a great activity for improving dexterity and hand-eye coordination. It can also serve as a therapeutic outlet for relieving stress and promoting relaxation.

Overall, learning how to sew with felt opens up a world of opportunities for crafting unique gifts, home decor items, fashion accessories

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.