Although sewing felt on a sewing machine may seem intimidating for some, the skill is fairly simple to learn. As one of the most versatile materials, felt can be used for multiple projects – ranging from simple shapes to intricate appliques and decorations. When properly prepared and used with the right technique, sewing felt on a sewing machine can be a very satisfying experience.
To start, there are a few things to consider beforehand. First, make sure the machine is set up properly. When working with felt, the fabric needs to be sewn slowly and gradually while also changing the thread tension every few stitches. Additionally, the presser foot needs to be appropriately adjusted as it can shift fabric as it moves beneath it. Also, if the fabric has frayed edges, it’s important to use a fray-check product to secure the fabric from fraying further.
Most sewing machines are equipped with a straight stitch and a zigzag feature – both of which can be used to sew felt. However, a zigzag stitch is the ideal choice for a beginning sewer. Although a zigzag stitch has more looping, it provides tight stitches that lie flat and create a stronger bond with the fabric. Moreover, a zigzag stitch can be used without adjustments to the tension.
After setting up the machine, it’s important to prepare the felt. Felt needs to be cut on a clean, flat surface and can be cut with both a sewing and a rotary cutter. Just be sure to lay the felt over a cutting mat. In addition, it is also helpful to iron the felt before sewing in order to create a smoother fabric texture that can move easily under the sewing machine.
Finally, slow and even feeds are crucial when working with felt. If a stitch is too slow, the felt will bunch up but if it’s too fast the felt may start puckering. A consistent pace should create even stitches in the felt.
Once the machine is set up and the felt is prepared, sewing felt on a sewing machine can be a cinch. With a little practice, it can even become a fun project.
Alternate Uses for Felt
Felt has become a popular material for projects – from needle felting to crafting and quilting. In addition to being pliable, felt does not fray which makes it ideal for cutting intricate shapes. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, thicknesses, and textures.
Some simple projects with felt can include placemats, beer koozies or wine gifts. Other popular ideas include bookmarks and quilted blankets. Felt can also be used to create unique decorations and gifts such as wall hangings and jewelry.
For those looking for more intricate designs, felt can be shaped and formed into items like dolls or animals. It can also be sculpted into jewelry pieces or appliques. With enough creativity, felt can be used to make countless projects.
Embellishments for Felt
One of the great things about felt is the ability to add embellishments for a custom, one-of-a-kind look. Embellishments can create a unique, textured look for felt projects. Some adding embellishments can include decorative buttons, beads, ribbons, lace and sequins.
To attach embellishments, use a needle and thread or a simple glue. For example, buttons can be easily sewn on with a machine or hand-sewn. Additionally, magnets or hooks can be applied with glue. Sequins and beads can also be easily attached to felt with a needle and thread.
Adding embellishments to felt projects can be a great way to add personalization and dimension to the project. It’s a fun way to make a statement in your next felt project.
Unique Patterns for Felt
One way to bring a design to life with felt is to choose the right pattern. Felt projects can be created with a variety of patterns including geometric, floral or any other custom designs. To make a pattern, draw it onto the felt or use a stencil to create the desired shape and size.
Felt can also be cut into strips and woven together to form unique patterns. This can add texture and dimension to a project. Sewing felt strips together can also create chevron, plaid and stripes patterns. Adding stripes and chevron patterns to felt can add dramatic contrast to elevate a simple project.
There are a few ways to add pattern to felt. Whether it’s with an original design, drawing or weaving, there is a lot of creative potential to use with felt projects.
Final Tips for Sewing Felt
When working with felt, take it slow and remember that fabric stretches and moves easily under the presser foot. So, start off gradually and look at the stitches as you feed the fabric. Don’t pull the fabric or it won’t lay flat.
For a more secure stitch, use the back stitch feature of the machine. This will create a tighter seal that can hold up well over time. Additionally, use a shorter stitch size as it will create a stronger bond and prevent the fabric from fraying. Lastly, be sure to use sharp and strong needles when sewing felt– they will help avoid any unraveling or puckering of the felt.
If something goes wrong, don’t worry – the project can be easily taken apart and started over. It’s also helpful to practice beforehand on a scrap piece of felt. There’s no one right answer when it comes to sewing felt – it’s really about seeing what works best for the project.
