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  • Eleanortillmans
  • September 26, 2024September 26, 2024
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Felted Hats

Felt Like Making Hats with Alpaca Fiber from Our Spring Harvest! ( see what I did there?)

This spring, we took on the fluffy mission of harvesting alpaca and sheep fiber, transforming our farm into a scene straight out of a Pixar movie. Think Cloudy with a Chance of Woolballs. Now, it’s time to put that fiber to good use: making fabulous, one-of-a-kind felt hats!

Picture this: You’ve just spent a solid hour shearing an alpaca who—let’s be real—is giving you some serious side-eye and yes, some of them do spit.🤢 Their fleece falls in tufts, and you suddenly wonder if there’s enough coffee in the world to get through this. But then, magic happens! You look down at the fiber—soft, luxurious, and you see all the possibilities.

Here’s how we’re turning fluff into fashion, and I promise it’s easier than talking an alpaca into a haircut:

  1. Prep the Fiber – After collecting this year’s fiber, we clean it (this means less hay in your hair), comb it out, and get it all fluffed up. Yes, there’s something so satisfying about fiber prep—like untangling holiday lights, but softer.
  2. Wet Felting – Grab your soapy water and prepare to get messy! Felting is all about coaxing those fibers to shrink and lock together. It’s like giving your wool a spa day, with a little elbow grease. Who knew? Spa days for fiber are a thing.
  3. Shape the Hat – As the fiber turns into felt, we shape it into hats that could rival a royal wedding. Whether you want a classic cloche or something with a bit more flair, you’re only limited by your imagination—and your ability to keep your pets from destroying your project mid-felt. (Don’t ask how I know that.)
  4. The Finishing Touches – Every great hat needs its final flourish. Whether it’s a flower, feather, or something wild like a yarn pompom, you can customize it to fit your style. Need to blend in at the next fiber fest? Or make a statement? I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a short video with a look at the process.

Want to learn how you can create your own felted fun projects with fiber? Join me on Patreon for behind-the-scenes videos, tutorials, and insider access to special deals on all our creations. Plus, keep up with sales and new fiber-related shenanigans by following me on Instagram.

So, whether you’re into DIY fashion or just want to stay cozy this winter, grab your fluff, follow along, and let’s get felting! 🎩

Don’t forget to sign up for updates and exclusive offers on our upcoming sales! You won’t want to miss our next trunk show or fiber drop!


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