A beginner's observation and a question

[caterina]

Hello!
I have a question for the research minded of you that will maybe sound silly to expert felters, but I am just beginning, so please guide me.

I noticed that when you needle felt and then wet felt the same merino piece, the wool flattens and becomes less strong or, in the case of ball-shapes, it can get wrinkles and a "brain-like" texture.

Is it because of something done during needle felting (for instance, it's not felted enough or needle felted along "wrong" lines for then being wetfelted) or is it just a structural thing (i.e.it always happens when you wetfelt a needle felted piece)? Is it only merino or any type of wool?

[MTRuth]

I think it probably has more to do with the fulling process than anything. If you go through the process moving more slowly and avoid things like throwing, you end with a smoother felt. Gradually build up the heat as well. And full longer than you want to 🤪

[Shepherdess]

I agree with Ruth. When making ropes or balls it is very important to move slowly so everything tightens together. It doesn't matter if you start with needle felting or not. With flat pieces I find a good strong roll at the end smooths things out.

[caterina]

Thanks, Ruth and Ann.
So, it seems that I was going too fast, in the wrong assumption that stuff was already felted, so it needed only a fast wetfelting treatment to smooth it, whereas I ended up with limp or wrinkled felt.
I will try again :-)