History of felt

Felt making is an ancient tradition. It goes back to 700 B.C.
Fine pieces of felt have been found in Siberia, preserved in the frozen tombs at Pazyrik in the Atlay Mountains(see ‘ pazyrik Horseman’ above).
In some countries e.g. Mongolia and Turkey, felt making is part of their nomadic culture. Felt is being used for everyday wear: yurts (tents), clothing, hats, coats, slippers and one can find many richly decorated items such as wall hangings and saddlebags.

Since the late 1970’s interest in felt making in the UK and other countries has grown. One can now find felt art in many galleries and felt products in many shops and at craft-fairs.
Merino wool from New Zealand is often used for felting as it is very fine and felts well. But many artists like to work with local fleeces, which all have their unique qualities.