... felting? ...

[guppygrrl.livejournal.com]

I poked around the memories a bit and didn't see any topics that might cover this (if it's hidden in there, please let me know).

I've crocheted up some hats out of 100% wool that is NOT superwash or anything like that. This stuff *will* felt when washed. Which is good - that's the effect I'm going for.

I talked to the lady at the yarn shop, and she said I could wash it in the machine with super hot water, don't machine dry it, and shape it over something until it's completely dry (using a bowl, one lady used her own head (?!!), I have styrofoam wig stands, so I'll use those).

My problem?

I don't have a washing machine. And I'm loathe to pay the outrageous fees to wash ONE hat at a time at the laundromat. And I'm an impatient grrlie who doesn't want to wait until all her hats are done and throw them in the same wash. ;)

What can I do? Is the agitation of the washing machine super necessasary, or is the hot water much more important? Could I just boil the hats on the stove to felt them? Or boil water but then turn off the flame when I stick the hat in? Should I stir it up a lot if this could be done, or can I just leave it to soak?

Also, if you've done this before, how much bigger do you think I should make my pattern to accomodate the shrinkage the felting will create?

Thanks in advance - I *heart* this community so much!! *L*

~Kissy