Care Instructions

Caring for Your Felted Pieces

Handmade felt is a beautiful and versatile textile, created with natural wool fibres and, in some pieces, silk and other materials. With a little care, your felted pieces will give you many years of enjoyment.

1. Wool and Silk Nuno-felted Scarves

Your scarf is a delicate combination of wool fibres and fine silk fabric. Treat it gently to preserve its texture, drape and shape.

Washing

  • Hand wash in cool water using a small amount of gentle shampoo. Shampoo is a good choice because it is pH neutral.
  • Alternatively, you can use Earth’s Choice dishwashing liquid, which is also pH neutral.
  • Gently move the scarf through the water. Avoid rubbing, twisting or stretching the fabric.
  • Rinse thoroughly in cool water.
  • Gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring.

Drying

  • Roll the scarf in an old, clean towel and press gently to remove excess water (some dye run may occur)
  • Reshape and lay flat or hang to dry, away from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Steam iron on silk setting if needed. Do not tumble dry.

2. Felted Artwork – Unframed

Your felted artwork is best treated as a textile artwork rather than a washable fabric.

  • Handle with clean, dry hands.
  • Keep away from moisture, damp walls and direct sunlight, which may cause fading over time.
  • To remove dust, gently brush with a very soft brush or use a low-suction vacuum with a protective screen held between the artwork and the nozzle.
  • Avoid rubbing, pulling or brushing vigorously.
  • Do not wash or immerse in water.
  • When storing, lay flat or roll gently around a wide, clean tube, with the artwork protected by acid-free tissue or a clean cotton cloth. Avoid sharp folds and creases. Pop in the freezer for a week in a zip-lock bag or calico bag before long term storage.

3. Felted Vessels

Felted vessels are sculptural objects and are best kept dry.

  • Keep away from prolonged exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Remove dust with a soft brush or a gentle shake.
  • If necessary, spot clean with a barely damp cloth, taking care not to saturate the felt.
  • Do not soak, machine wash or tumble dry.
  • If the vessel loses its shape, gently reshape it by hand and allow it to dry naturally. Holding over  a steaming kettle can help before reshaping,this relaxes the fibres.

Protecting Your Felt from Clothes Moths

Wool is a natural fibre and can attract clothes moths. The moth larvae, rather than the adult moths, cause the damage by feeding on wool fibres. A little prevention can make a big difference.

Before seasonal storage:

  • Make sure your felted pieces are clean and completely dry before putting them away.
  • Place the item in a sealed zip-lock bag before freezing. Freeze for one week.
  • Allow the item to return to room temperature while still sealed, before opening. This helps prevent condensation forming on the felt.
  • For seasonal storage, use a sealed bag or airtight container. A fabric bag is lovely for everyday storage, but on its own it will not protect against moths.
  • Store in a cool, dry place and check your pieces occasionally.

A final thought: Your felted pieces are handmade textile works. Gentle handling, clean storage and protection from moths will help preserve them for many years to come.