Master the Art of Felt Sewing: A Step-by-Step Guide on How To Sew Felt

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Do you have an artistic side that’s been itching to come out? Are you looking for a new and creative way to express yourself? Look no further because we have the perfect activity for you – sewing felt! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, sewing with felt is a fun and versatile way to create beautiful projects. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to sew felt. From materials and techniques to project ideas, get ready to dive into the world of felt sewing and unleash your inner creativity!

Sewing with felt is a fun and versatile craft that allows you to create all sorts of projects, from clothing to accessories to home decor. Felt is a fabric made from compressed and matted fibers, typically wool or synthetic materials, that is known for its soft yet durable texture. It is a popular choice for crafting due to its ability to hold shapes well and its low cost. In this guide, we will be discussing how to sew felt and sharing tips and techniques for success.

What You Will Need

Before we dive into the different methods for sewing felt, let’s go over the supplies you will need to get started.

– Felt fabric: You can purchase felt in various colors and thicknesses at most craft stores or online.
– Sewing machine or needle and thread: Depending on your preference, you can choose to hand sew or use a sewing machine.
– Scissors: A good pair of scissors is essential for cutting out your felt pieces.
– Pins: These will come in handy when pinning down your pattern pieces onto the fabric.
– Needles: If you are hand sewing, it’s important to have different sized needles on hand depending on the thickness of your thread.
– Thread: Choose a thread color that matches or complements your felt fabric.
– Marking tools: These can include chalk, disappearing ink pens, or fabric markers for tracing patterns onto your felt.
– Ruler: A ruler will help you measure and cut precise lines on your felt fabric.

Sewing Techniques for Felt

There are several different methods for sewing felt depending on your project and level of expertise. Let’s explore some of these techniques in more detail.

Hand Stitching

Hand stitching is a traditional method of sewing that can be used with any type of fabric, including felt. This technique is best suited for smaller, more detailed projects like stuffed animals or embroidery designs.

To hand stitch felt, you will need a needle and thread. Thread your needle with a single strand of thread or embroidery floss, depending on how thick you want your stitches to be. Felt is a forgiving fabric to sew with since it does not fray, so you do not need to worry about finishing the edges of your stitches.

When hand stitching felt, be sure to use small, even stitches. This will keep the fabric from bunching up and create a clean and professional-looking finish. You can also try different types of hand stitches like the blanket stitch or whip stitch for added decorative elements.

Sewing Machine

If you prefer using a sewing machine for your projects, rest assured that felt can be easily stitched on most machines. When sewing with felt on a machine, it’s best to use a sharp needle in size 90/14 or higher to avoid snagging or breaking the fabric.

Depending on your project, you may also want to switch out your regular sewing foot for a walking foot. A walking foot helps evenly feed thicker fabrics through the machine, preventing any puckering or bunching up of the fabric.

When stitching with a sewing machine, be sure to use a longer stitch length (around 3 mm) and go slowly to avoid shifting of the felt pieces. It’s also important to test out your stitches on scrap pieces of felt first before sewing on your final project.

No-Sew Method

For those who do not have access to a sewing machine or prefer not to hand stitch, there is also an option for a no-sew method when working with felt. This technique involves using craft glue or hot glue gun instead of traditional thread and needle.

To use this method, simply apply glue onto one piece of felt and press it onto another piece. Be sure to use a thin line of glue and work quickly before it dries. You can also reinforce the edges of your project with fabric glue or fusible webbing to ensure they stay in place.

Tips for Sewing Success

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when sewing with felt:

– Always pre-wash your felt fabric before beginning your project as it can shrink slightly.
– When cutting out pattern pieces, use sharp scissors and cut smoothly to avoid frayed edges.
– Pay attention to the direction of the felt fibers when cutting out your pieces to ensure they lay flat when stitched together.
– Use pins sparingly when working with felt as too many pinholes can weaken the fabric.
– If you notice any creases or wrinkles in your felt, you can lightly steam them out with an iron on a low setting.
– Experiment with different types of stitches and embellishments like beads or sequins for added texture and interest.

Now that you have a better understanding of how to sew felt, it’s time to put these techniques into practice. Whether you are a beginner or experienced sewer, working with felt offers endless possibilities for creativity and fun. So gather your supplies, choose a project, and get sewing! With practice and patience, you

What is Felt?

Felt is a versatile and unique material that is commonly associated with the art of sewing. It is a type of textile that is created by matting, compressing, and pressing fibers together until they form a compact, sturdy fabric. The fibers used to make felt can be either natural or synthetic, such as wool, cotton, or polyester. Felt can come in a variety of colors, ranging from muted earth tones to vibrant hues.

Felt has been used for centuries in various forms across many different cultures. In fact, some experts believe that felt may have been one of the earliest forms of fabric. The process of creating felt involves tangling and twisting the fibers together until they form a solid piece. This method dates back thousands of years and was likely discovered by accident when people noticed that animal fur would shrink and become matted when exposed to heat and moisture.

Today, felt is commonly used in crafting and sewing projects due to its texture and durability. It is also popular for use in clothing, such as hats and slippers, as well as for home decor items like rugs and wall hangings. Felt is a popular choice among crafters because it can be easily cut into various shapes without fraying or unraveling.

Types of Felt

There are several different types of felt available for sewing projects. Each type has its own unique characteristics and uses.

1) Wool Felt: This type of felt is made from 100% wool fibers without any additional synthetic materials added. It is soft to the touch and has a luxurious feel, making it ideal for high-end sewing projects.
2) Blended Felt: As the name suggests, blended felts are made from a mix of natural and synthetic fibers such as wool blended with rayon or polyester. This type of felt is more affordable than wool felt but still offers a soft and sturdy finish.
3) Craft Felt: This is the most common type of felt used for crafting and sewing projects. It is usually made from synthetic materials and comes in a wide range of colors. Craft felt is relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for beginners.
4) Industrial Felt: Also known as “hard felt”, industrial felt is thinner and denser than other types of felt. It is primarily used in industrial settings for applications such as soundproofing or sealing.

Tools and Materials Needed

To successfully sew with felt, you will need a few specific tools and materials to ensure a professional finish. Some essential items include:

1) Scissors/rotary cutter: Since felt can be easily cut into different shapes, having sharp scissors or a rotary cutter is essential.
2) Pins: These are necessary for holding the fabric pieces together before sewing.
3) Sewing needles: Choose needles specifically designed for sewing with thicker fabrics like felt.
4) Thread: Matching thread is preferable, but if you want to add contrast to your project, choose coordinating colors instead.
5) Marking tool: You will need this to mark any patterns onto the felt before cutting.
6) Sewing machine/ hand-sewing equipment: While it is possible to sew by hand, using a sewing machine will help speed up the process and ensure neat, even stitches.

Preparing Felt for Sewing

Before starting your project, there are a few steps you should take to prepare your felt fabric for sewing:

1) Wash the fabric: If you are using wool or blended felt, it is essential to pre-wash the fabric before using it. This ensures that it doesn’t shrink or distort after washing your finished project. Use cold water and lay flat to dry for best results.
2) Ironing: Felt should be ironed on a low heat setting without steam. Place a cloth over the felt to avoid direct contact with the hot iron.
3) Cut your fabric: Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to cut your fabric pieces. Be precise and careful when cutting as felt can easily fray if not handled correctly.

Sewing Techniques for Felt

Felt is a unique material to sew with, and therefore, it requires some specific techniques to achieve professional results. Here are some tips for sewing with felt:

1) Use sharp needles: As mentioned earlier, choose needles specifically designed for sewing with thicker fabrics.
2) Use the right stitch: For best results, use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch for extra stability.
3) Pin generously: Felt can be slippery, so it’s important to pin your pieces together securely before sewing.
4) Avoid backstitching: Instead of backstitching at the beginning and end of your seams, sew slightly beyond the fabric’s edge and then trim off any excess threads.
5) Experiment with decorative stitches: One of the best things about sewing with felt is that you can add unique decorative stitches to enhance your project’s look.

Project Ideas

Now that you know the basics of sewing

1. What is the best type of needle to use when sewing felt?
The best type of needle to use when sewing felt is a size 90/14 universal or sharp needle. These needles are strong enough to pierce through the thick fabric without damaging it.

2. Can I use regular thread for sewing felt?
No, regular thread can easily break when sewing felt. It is recommended to use a thicker and stronger thread such as polyester or nylon, which can handle the weight and thickness of felt.

3. How do I prevent my felt from fraying while sewing?
To prevent fraying, you can apply a small amount of clear-drying glue along the edges of the felt before sewing. This will help seal the fibers and keep them from unraveling.

4. Is it necessary to pin felt before sewing?
Yes, it is recommended to pin felt pieces together before sewing in order to ensure they stay in place and give you more control while stitching. You can also use clips instead of pins to avoid making holes in the fabric.

5. How do I create clean and straight edges when cutting felt?
To create clean edges, use a ruler and a rotary cutter or sharp scissors to cut your felt. Make sure to only cut through one layer at a time and avoid using dull blades as they can cause jagged edges.

6. Can I wash items made from sewn felt?
Yes, you can wash items made from sewn felt on a gentle cycle with cold water. Be sure to let them air dry completely before using or storing them again.

In conclusion, learning how to sew felt can open up a whole new world of creativity and crafting possibilities. It is a versatile and accessible material with a variety of uses, from making toys and decorations to creating clothing and accessories. By following the steps outlined in this guide, beginners can easily learn the basic techniques of sewing felt and gradually develop their skills to take on more complex projects.

One of the key things to remember when sewing felt is to have the right tools and materials, such as high-quality felt, sharp scissors, and strong threads. Taking the time to properly prepare and organize your workspace can also greatly improve your sewing experience. Additionally, paying attention to details like measuring and cutting accurately can make a huge difference in the final result.

Another crucial aspect of sewing felt is mastering different stitching techniques. From the basic running stitch to more advanced techniques like satin stitches or applique, each one adds its unique texture and aesthetic to a project. Along with this, being familiar with different types of embellishments like beads or embroidery thread can add a personalized touch to your creations.

However, one should also be aware that sewing felt does require patience and practice. It may take some time for beginners to become accustomed to working with this material, but with perseverance, they can achieve satisfying results.

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.