I have started using 100% wool felt for my soft toys and I’ve found it’s lovely to work with as it has such a nice luxurious feel of ‘quality’ about it!
Acrylic Felt is so cheap and easy to find and 100% Pure Wool Felt is so much more expensive… MAYBE, like me, you have wondered
‘Is it worth paying so much more
for 100% wool felt?’
So I decided it was time to do some research to find out
the differences between Acrylic and wool felt, and THIS is what I found out!
Well, as always, there are pros and cons! You have to weigh these up and decide what quality of felt to use, and if you feel it’s worth spending the extra dollars!!!
OK, so what’s so good about 100% Wool Felt anyway?
- It’s the most durable type of felt, (Great for making heirloom quality toys).
- It has less fuzz than other felts and it will not pill.
- It is thicker, more tightly woven and has stronger fibres so it holds up better to wear so seams won’t rip when stuffing your toys!
- It has slight elasticity so it can be manipulated and shaped.
- 100% natural wool is both stain and water resistant.
- Wool is naturally fire resistant.
- Wool has anti-bacterial properties that keep it from mildewing.
- Wool is hypoallergenic.
- It is both ecologically and animal friendly. (It is a natural and sustainable resource.)
I used 100% Wool Felt from Winterwood for this Kitty Kate. Besides the fabulous colour of the felt that I LOVE, (and which I just couldn’t find in any craft store that stocked only Acrylic Felt) I really liked the fact that the edges of the felt pieces didn’t disintergrate, as I cut them out and sewed them in place, like they do when I used Acrylic felt. The chunkiness of the wool felt also gives the toy a nice 3-D texture look which makes you just want to pick her up and cuddle her! (The gorgeous fabric is Girly Parade from Two Monkeys Fabric Store.)
Are there any disadvantages of 100% Wool Felt?
- It is much more expensive.
- Wool felts are thicker which can make sewing and shaping it more difficult.
- It shrinks a lot when washed.
- It can be hard to find in a large array of colors. *
* I’m NOT sure I quite believe this last point though when you look at Winterwood’s wool felt color chart!
NOW, what’s good about Acrylic Felt?
- It’s much cheaper. (Great for practicing or kiddies crafts)
- It’s easy to find at any craft store.
- It is stain resistant as long as it isn’t an oil based stain, like lipstick.
- Acrylic felts wash very nicely and won’t shrink.
- Colors do not fade (the plastic fibers themselves hold the color.)
I have used these pre cut Acrylic Felt spots which I got from Ifeltspritely. I use them to test out color options when designing my toy sewing patterns. And when I know the toy will be only for display NOT play, I use them for the finished toy too! It can be hard to cut perfecly round, equal sized felt circles for soft toy eyes, so they make it really easy to add felt eyes to your toys. They also come in so many colours – I felt like a kid again playing with my felt pieces!!!
And what are the disadvantages of Acrylic Felt?
- It will pill and fuzz. (Not good for craft projects like toys that’ll be handled often!)
- It’s stiffer and harder to shape.
- It’s thinner – so may be more see through.
- It’s much weaker and seams are more likely to tear.
- It catches fire almost instantly when exposed to a flame.
- It’s durable because plastics degrade very slowly.(Not too eco friendly!)
- Also not environmently friendly as large quantities of chemical pollutants are created when it is manufactured.*
* Eco felt is called this because it is made from recycled plastic (mainly bottles) instead of plastic pellets, but it is still made from the same material, with the same disadvantages as standard Acrylic Felt.
I used Acrylic Felt for this Sammy Shark. I don’t know if you can see it but when I sewed the blue felt in place with a blanket stitch, the acrylic felt is not very firm so the stitches dig into the felt ans make it pucker. Not the best but hey, I got a great color match and this toy is for display ONLY, so it should look good for a while!!!
So what’s my verdict?
Mmmmmmmmm! If I was just testing a pattern out, or making something I didn’t need to last for a while (like dog toys!), I would use Acrylic Felt. If I just cannot find the right colour of Wool Felt, I would use Acrylic felt or a Wool Blend which is a combination of the two. As long as the toy wasn’t going to be handled to roughly, it would be OK! BUT if I wanted to make a good quality toy to last and last and LAST, especially when I want to give the toy as a gift or if I wanted to sell the toy, I would use Wool Felt.
So if I had to offer any advice on choosing between Wool Felt or Acrylic, I’d say,
“Try both and THEN decide what Felt you’d like to use when!” : )
I’d love to know which Felt you prefer or have used for making YOUR Funky Friends?!
.
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Till next time,
Happy Sewing,
Pauline
I use acrylic as no shops near me sell wool. but i might have to splurge on some of winterwood’s felt 🙂
I would choose wool felt over acrylic especially for toys for little people. Wool is much nicer to work with…but for big projects (like Christmas stockings) acrylic is much easier on the bank balance!
I’ve always used acrylic and am interested now in trying wool. Thanks for the article and the chance to win!
Definitley wool! It’s superior.
I have never used wool felt before, only acrylic. Now that I have read your review I think I’ll have to invest in some wool felt!!
I like wool felt best, acrylic has a funny feel to it I don’t like!
Definitely wool felt :).
I was never a fan of acrylic felt. I always stayed away from patterns that suggested it. I have started using it more tho lately, since I have been sewing more. (I’m still just a beginner) In fact, I didn’t even know there was such a thing as wool felt. The wool felt you used for Kitty Kate is beautiful and I would love to try it out.
I’ve never tried wool felt, but would love to. Thanks for doing the giveaway.
Have not used wool before, but I always prefer natural fibres over manmade
Oh, wool felt all the way! I love Winterwood’s beautiful felts (this reminds me I haven’t been in there in a while… hmm) – only trouble is I can’t help but buy so much stuff every time I visit!
Like Carol above me, I’m still fairly new to plush toy making so acrylic felt has been an excellent practice material. It’s strong enough for my needs and very forgiving – and also very easy on the budget. I love it but I have been branching out into other fabrics like fleece and minky. I think I will now add wool felt to my fabric store runs.
I’ve never tried wool felt either but thanks for the pros/cons breakdown of both! I’ll have to give it a shot!
I use acrylic because wool felt is harder to come by, I have always been satisfied with the results. I would like to give wool felt a go, I just have to find some. Thanks for the chance to win. :-}
I love using wool when I’m making stuffed animals for the little people in my family. Its much more durable.
Wool felt all the way!!
At present I use – and have only used – acrylic but it doesn’t have enough body to withstand tension as noted with Sammy Shark.
To me acrylic has an unpleasant feel that does not withstand washing and cleanliness is so very important for toys eh
Plus I like the fact that wool is natural and a renewable resource. I don’t see many acryls running wild or being bred for their pelts, do you?
*laff*
Hands down, wool felt… Nice feel, and won’t pill…
Hope I’m the lucky one!
I really like wool but as you say it is so expensive. Oh well everything is these days.
To be honest, it depends on the toy I want to make. I love acrylic felt just as much as wool felt! Each kind of felt gives a unique element to the final product!
I have been collecting wool felt for sometime as I love the feel in projects. Whenever I see a new colour I buy a length as who knows if I’ll ever see it again. The colour range is often limited but the feel is just so much better than acrylic. I will have to look at winterwood’s range and my softies will have a new lease of colour.
Definitely wool! Wool felt is my most favourite medium to work with. There is no comparison with acrylic felt unless you want to make something tiny where the wool felt may be a little too thick although you can usually find a wool viscose mix which is thinner than 100% wool. Love your toys and patterns Pauline by the way 🙂
For toys I love wool felt…more durable!
I use both! But much prefer wool felt as it seems more stable particularly as I use it for Larry the Lions mane to save sewing so many layers, it stands beautifully!
xxx
My preference is wool felt because of its durability, flexibility and feel. As well, I also prefer to work with materials that environmentally friendly. Thanks.
Ho sempre usato il feltro di lana , ho realizzato un presepe, e parti tipo cuori, scarpe, fiori su bamble, pupazzi e oggetti d’arredo, mi trovo bene lavorarla. Mi piace averne sempre in casa, la scorta in palio sarebbe l’ideale.
I much prefer the wool felt its fantastic to work with, its natural and I find better quality.
Wool felt. I love the warm fuzzy feeling it gives to the softies, makes it all the more huggable! 😉
Wool for me! My 2 year old drags her teddies round everywhere, so they need to be tough! 🙂 x
I’m so excited I used Google translate for Spanish and understood what Giovanna wrote!!!How’s that for fabulous technology???? 🙂
I always used wool felt, I made a crib, and parts like hearts, shoes, flowers of Bamble, toys and ornaments, I’m happy to work it. I like to have in the house, the stock would be ideal for grabs.
Wool felt would definitely be better to make animals out of. Yes, it may be more expensive, but when you are putting so much time into a project, you want it to turn out right – and last too!!!
I like using the wool felt because it’s thicker and especially if I’m making a present I like to use good quality material. I love to win these lovely range and new patterns.
I never tried wool felt but I will now that read your review on the
quality of the product. I hope to win so I can try some of those
bright beautiful colors.
I too have only ever used acrylic felt – because it’s all I can get here in tropical north Queensland (very little warmer fabrics at all!) Basically restricted to the A4 size ‘sheets’ of acrylic felt at Spotlight or $2 stores. I have considered ordering wool felt online, but was worried about the expense and not really knowing whether it would be any nicer to sew with than what I can get here. I would very much like to try the wool felt, and having read the pros and cons above I think I’d be a wool felt-addict in no time at all!!
Up till now, my softies have been made of calico and that has suited me nicely. I’ve used acrylic felt for embellishments but found it fragile & stretchy unless stiffened in a pva solution first. Having just used calico to make my first camel, I would LOVE to make one from pure wool felt next. Fireproof, archival and lovely to cuddle!! Pick me 😀
I usually use acrylic felt due to price and availability but going to try wool for my next softie for my granddaughter.
I much prefer wool felt and particularly felt from Winterwood. It is just lovely. But for cheap and cheerful, acrylic does the job. Anything needing a bit of effort, I pay the extra though. Thanks for a great giveaway.
Definately acrylic felt, I love to use felt for all my arts and crate projects x
I haven’t worked with felt at all but I do prefer the feel of wool felt. (Yes I am one of those people that must touch fabric!) I have a lot of Funky Friends patterns just begging me to get some felt but I have procrastinated because I’m worried I will tear the acrylic felt. Your post is very timely. Imagine the colour combinations for sugar plum fairy! Exciting stuff. Thanks for sharing!
hi! love your site! i would like to use wool felt for the softies. it seems to be worth cost. 🙂
Hi!
I usually work with acrilic felt, since wool is so hard to get and haven’t come around it yet. Would love to try it out though 😉
Katarina
I love wool! It makes me take that extra effort to make the teddy nice because of the extra pennies I’ve spent on it! Also when I make teddies for loved ones it’s great to see the felt last so long and look so great.
I way prefer to work with wool felt than acrylic felt. No only because of the great quality and all of the adventages mentioned above, but also because it feels wonderful when you are working with it. It´s true that it is more expensive that the acrylic but I think it is totally worthy.
I use acrylic as its easy on bank balance especially when you’re a “newbie” and just learning the techniques.
Considering I make toys for my daughters to play with, wool felt is much preferred! And the shrinking could be a pro if you wanted your toy to be smaller 😛
However, I haven’t seen many colours of wool felt at my local Spotlight. There was a huge range of acrylic felt sheets (approx A4) and a few wool felt sheets too. There was an extremely limited range of wool and acrylic felt on the roll (like a proper fabric roll).
My preferred fabric for larger projects is still polar or micro polar fleece but for smaller toy projects wool felt would be preferred. For embellishing, either acrylic or wool (depends on colour required) would be fine.
I would choose wool felt over acrylic especially for toys for little people. For safety reasons Wool is much better as it is not as flamable as acrylic.
I definitely like wool/felt as it lasts better, washes beautifully if careful, and most of all I can needle felt it as well and therefore end up with gorgeous features, eyes etc. Am looking forward to making my own wool felt in the near future for special projects to come.
I use acrylic when making softies, or fleece. We have a few stores here that
Sell Woolf felt, thought it would be too hard to work with, but I will try it!
Oooh, would love to win this set!!! I’ve only used acrylic felt because of price but would LOVE to use 100% wool. Your descriptions sold me on the benefits and qualities of wool felt 🙂
Wool for sure when I can get it!!
I love wool, and prefer it, but if the project at hand requires artifical felt, then I would use it..but, still wool is my favorite felt to work with.
If I am making a gift I opt for wool. This is because my gifts are usually for children so I like to think their new best friend is soft and durable. However if I am making something for myself I would use acrylic. The things I make for myself are not generally played with so pilling is not an issue. Acrylic for myself makes my projects more cost effective too. L x
I normally use acrylic as it’s cheaper but after reading this article I definitely want to try out 100% wool.
Definitely wool felt – it makes your soft toy all that much worthwhile even if it costs that little bit more. I am converted from the cheapy acrylic a long time ago. Go wool felt – its more real!
I prefer wool because it looks and feels much nicer, and if going to the effort to make something using felt, then I would spend the extra money to make a quality product.
I have never worked with wool felt either but my mom loves it. She has been trying to get me to use it but I don’t do many projects that involve felt. I think I will add a new project to my list : )
I’ve always used fleece because I mostly make toys for babies and fleece is super easy to throw through the washing machine. However I’m always willing to try something new and would love to give the wool felt a go. Thanks for all the useful info & for the chance to win 🙂
I like to use wool felt for its nice smooth finish 🙂
I much prefer 100% wool felt. I made an owl toy for my daughter out of a wool blend and it has pilled really badly, so I can only imagine how much completely acrylic felt would pill! But I do find the range of wool felt colours is limited in ky local haberdashery shops.
Great post & a fab looking giveaway 🙂
Eu uso pouco feltro, mas como gosto muito do manuseio do feltro, acredito que, dependendo do trabalho se deve usar o que for mais adequado.Feltro é bom de qualquer tipo, desde que, seja de um bom fabricante. Beijos a todos.
I have only used felt, but would like to try wool!!
Hi Pauline – I love wool felt for toys- I still have toys my mum made for me with wool felt and they look just as good now as when they were made and I really played with them heaps (acrylic felt was not around in the 1950’s)so they are definitely more durable but I use acrylic felt when I make cards and things that won’t be played with as much.The only problem with wool felt I have found is it’s prone to moths but if you look after it it will keep and as far as colours -there are some dyes that work with wool to give the right colour.
Wool felt! It gives a much nicer feel.
Hi Pauline,
This is a big giveaway!!!! I’m just a beginner on the subject of toy making but I enjoy every moment of it!
I’d like to have the wool felt if it is possible please, got a little boy as my first grand child and would like to spoil him with a soft toy that was home made like my teddies I started to make. I think the wool felt will keep up to him playing with it! It is so great seeing the toy coming to “life”.!
Oooooh! Sounds fabulous . I have never used wool felt , mainly because it is price prohibited . I am sure it is lovely , plus when you put the work inti a project
And it does not last because it’s thinner and pills .I would love to win
Thank you for the chance
Louise
I use old baby grows and interface the fabric before I cut out the pattern. Then I make keepsake ‘toys’ for friends and family. I like the idea of Wool felt though, sounds lovely! I only have to buy the stuffing and eyes when I use baby grows though!
I’ve only used acrylic felt before but would love to try wool. Love your designs; very child and adult friendly. 🙂
Wool is best
Hello!
I’m new at this and I have not tried to sew your toys yet, but I’ve always been fond of using wool felt and will probably try it on your toys.
I think I have only used acylic felt as I think this is what is available in our part of the world. I will however order some wool felt as to experience the difference for myself. 🙂
I fill my with wheat/rice and use them for heat pads for my tiny furless marsupials when I have to take them out with me. Wool definitely as it is a natural product and if they swallow any fluff it will digest whereas synthetic fibre doesn’t.
Like several other subscribers, I have not used wool felt but certainly will do so in the near future to find out all it’s wonderful attributes.
Definitely wool felt 🙂 after trying it I could never go back.!! 🙂
Sue Hunter – Cashmere
I use both – it really is a matter of waht is available when I need it.
Wool felt definately stronger.
Like others, I’ve never tried wool felt, but would really love to try it someday. Thanks for doing the giveaway,and for the useful information.
I always prefer to use 100% wool felt. It always looks and feels much better than the acrylic version. A great giveaway!
I have always used wool felt until recently when I tried Acrylic but it is nowhere near as good a quality. It is thinner but great for not so important projects. Either is lovely as a gift.
I always prefer wool over acrylic because I love the cosy warm feel; it’s natural and doesn’t have a clammy feel like acrylic. It also stands up to a lot of rough and tough wear, and is more resistant to soiling. It’s great to be able to use such good quality fibres for these cute and adorable toys. Many thanks for all the information on both felt products.
I much prefer wool felt, not only because the colours have better shades that mix well together, as I make textile sculptures aimed at the adult world, I think quality is important. It is more difficult to sew with, but like anything, it does get easier the more you work with it.
I do use acrylic felt too and source as good a quality as I can get. I don’t use it for toys because of the appauling fire safety issues. It is usually used to make features on textile sculptures.
Happy crafting folks,and good luck everyone.
I use both but have to say wool felt wins every time for me.Some acrylic felts are almost transparent and the difference in quality is so obvious.When making a softie that is hopefully going to be loved alot the extra exspense is acceptable.
I’m posting on behalf of my daughter who is 12. She likes to make cute little things out of felt. When she first started I bought her acrylic felt. It’s cheap and is easy to cut out. Recently though I bought her 100% wool felt. She said she preferred it as it was softer and now her cutting out skills have improved that wasn’t a problem, although as I’m the one buying it is more expensive!
Hi I like to use acrylic felt as I make toys for the Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes and it washes so much easier for these purposes
Crafting with the Grandkids acrylic is the go, but for quality and softness then wool is the one I love best.
I would love to try wool felt, especially as my daughter loves stuffed toys. I have used acrylic before but haven’t really been happy with the results.
Love using wool felt as well different fleeces 🙂
A great giveaway!
I love the special finish my new “friends” have when I use 100% wool felt. I know it is more expensive but the results are in the finished “softie”! Thanks
Wool felt is great to use – so soft and pliable. I have also used the acrylic felt, but it just does not compare to the ‘original’ wool felt for great toy making. My grandchildren love their toys made with proper wool felt!
I prefer using wool felt for soft toys as i think it’s softer for little sensitive skin! I’ve used acrylic before for other projects though and found it to be quite a bit cheaper!
I love wool felt, never used it for toys but now I will give it a go.
Wool looks and feels better. However, my local craft store is not stocking it in a big variety of colours (mostly due to it being too expensive, I guess), so I normally have to use acrylic, but the results would be better with wool, I’m sure.
i have been making toys for 10+ years and i used acrylic felt for the first year. I splurged on a “bundle” of wool blend felt from the Silver Penny and I have never looked back. It makes sewing a breeze, it stays looking nice and if im spending that much time putting hours of teeny tiny stitches in ANYTHING, I want it to last forever. You failed to mention bamboo felt, I cant find a “TON” of colors but it is amazing to work with, washes amazing and is sturdier than even the wool. try the bamboo i promise you will love it!
I much prefer the feel of wool felt!
I have only used wool a couple of times and found it easy to work with and has a nicer feel to it, especially when making toys for little ones. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to find many places that have the wool and their colour choices a limited. I love making colorful softies for my grandchildren so more felt would be lovely
I have always used acrylic felt in my sewing and crafting because that is what is available here. However, I have drooled over wool felt in Brisbane and would love to try it to see the difference between the two. I know I prefer the feel and look of the wool felt and I believe it would give a product a better looking final finish. What a wonderful giveaway
Definitely prefer wool felt, as I make them for kids charity and though it’s more expensive, it’s more durable and feels so much nicer.
I use both, in different projects. I often look for the right color instead of the material, but wool gives a nicer result. Like your kitten softie!
Ive been using acrylic felt at the moment because I had a load given to me in an array of colours but like yourself I would be interested in using wool felt for special gifts etc.
I haven´t tried woolyet but I like the feel of it and I will try for sure. And its a great thing to make toys that are all ecological. Thank you for a chance to win.
I much prefer wool felt as it feels so nice, but my budget only usually allows for acrylic felt.
I love the feel of wool felt but it is not always available or within my price range!
I love both 🙂 depending on how long the project needs to last and how much its going to be “loved” will depend on which one I’d use. As long as I’m making toys I’m happy 🙂
I love your patterns!!! I would like to use acrilic felt.
Goodluck!
I love wool 🙂 as acrylic has an ‘icky’ feel Susan
I haven’t tried either one yet but the wool would be my first choice. I tend to prefer natural fibers.
I am new to soft toymaking so thankyou for the pros and cons. Most enlightening. I only knew about woolblend and acrylic felt (I prefer woolblend) but would LOVE to try 100% woolfelt. I want my toys to be safe and durable.
I like to use wool felt, because it doesn’t tear or stretch. I never mind paying a little extra, because it’s so much easier to work with.
Ive only used acrylic as it was all that was stocked at spotlight. I’m such a novice, I just thought felt was felt! I just used it actually with the panda blankie that I have nearly finished. Loved the article and would love to use wool on my next project, maybe honey bear!
I use wool felt because my toys are made as gifts for the children of my family and friends 🙂 I love the texture of it and the durability.
I have never used wool felt before so I would love to try this! I hope for my great chance here ;-)!
I use wool felt. It does come in many beautiful and rich colours (or you can dye your own!) and it feels so much nicer than acrylic. No comparison!
I love wool as it is so easy to use.
I have only ever used acrylic felt, mostly because of the cost and availability in retail stores versus wool felt. So I would love to try wool felt to really see the difference! I loved this post on the pros and cons of both, very informative.
Love the beautiful natural feel to wool….
Hi, I have used both depending on availability but definately prefer the wool – it just seems to wear better
I much prefer to use.wool though I do use acrylic for the smaller projects.
Hi Pauline !
This is Zimmy from INDIA.Every Country have its own culture or tradition, in our motherland-wool is very auspicious symbol for us. In some of the holy festivals of India-Wool is very important & special.So I always wish to use Wool felt for making stuffies for my baby,not only for its auspiciousness but also its softness & warmness.
For small toys I always use Wool Felt but in the larger size stuffies sometimes I wish to use some mix & match by the use of acrylic felt with some wool felt ideas. Arcrylic felt’s bright colors is also looking cute & attracts kids.
Take care !
Have only ever used acrylic but will have to check out wool now.
I am a beginner sewer and haven’t yet used any felt, but from reading your recommendations, I would definetly go for wool felt.
I would absolutely love to use wool, however I have searched high and low for it but it’s no where to be found. Though they have a great assortment of colours in the acrylic, the feel and look just doesn’t compare. I’d fly around the world just to meet you and get some wool felt there, however, being unemployed (with a wee baby) puts a strain on the budget 😉
So, in the meantime, I’ll stay home and make more stuffies with what I’ve got. It makes me happy and end results always put a smile on baby’s face.
Please, oh pretty please pick me
Lynn
DONT YOU LOVE BEING SHOVED TO THE BOTTOM JUST BECAUSE YOU WONT USE FACEBOOK ETC I DONT USE FELT BUT MIGHT GIVE IT A GO
I use acrylic felt with sticky back. I find it easier to position then I sew in place. I would love to try wool felt though as it would add to the overall softness of the toy. x
I like using wool felt, first of all because it is a natural product, and I like children to have contact with natural things.
And it feels nice, too. The colours come out great and it is really good to sew.
I have tried wool felt and found it beautiful. You can feel the texture and quality and it makes up beautifully, but I can’t afford to use it very much. I find there a different qualities in acrylic felt and some these days is very thin, almost see through, and doesn’t keep its shape.
You have to look for the better quality. I would love to be able to use wool felt more. Thank you for your information on the felt.
As we are a publick institution, a youth club, we are always on a strict budget, so we only use fleece and acrylic felt.. whitch don´t last that long, we acytally dont use the felt any more because it does not last when we stuff the softies, it rips at the seems, so now we only use the fleece, because we can get them in blankets thats wery cheap.. so we woud love the chance to win some real wool felt and some more patterns, because we only have Honey..and we are not allowed to buy out of the country of denmark..
with a hope to win..
kind regards
Anne Linnel
Ruds-Vedby youth center..
I usually use fleece for all of my Funky Friends but there is a great cotton fabric I have been dying to try and the wool felt would give just the right accents. I’ve wanted to work with wool felt for a while but was afraid to make the investment. Oh, the things I could do with it!!! Please, please, please, let me win!! You would make 2 little boys very happy.
I’m a naturalist all the way. I tried to find wool felt for some baby shoes but coul only find the acrylic/wool felt. I think for our most treasured little humans only all natural will do!!!
I like to use wool.
I love wool felt, as toys made of wool love a lot of loving and seem to become a personality all of their own because of all the love 🙂
Wool felt is the way to go!!
I am a fan of wool felt and also your funky patterns
Wonderful childhood memory: making felt from wool shorn from our small flock of aging poddy lambs! Using acrylic felt would be sacrilegious!
I have never tried wool felt but would lIke to.
I haven’t used felt before instead I use different types of fleece. But I would definitely be using acrylic felt if I did because of the price, variety and availability 🙂
I have been using wool felt for quite some time now and have found that it always gives me much better results in the items I make. Wool felt is thicker and softer than acrylic felt and the items I make always hold their shape. I love making toys as well as victorian style pincushions so my choice of felt is very important to me. I always seem to get a more professional look to the finished product. Wool felt is very important for attaining an authentic period look to my pincushions. The cost does not worry me becauseI know I will get the results I want. I used acrylic felt in the past and have often discarded the project because I was disappointed in the end result. I am a dedicated wool felt user.
I have never used wool felt, but based on all of these comments I think I need to try it!
I only make a for family members so I would have to go with wool. Feels nicer so it makes it worth the trouble and the money
I’ve only ever used acrylic felt since it’s so readily available and less expensive. But after reading your post about wool felt I definitely want to give it a try sometime!
eu amo trabalhar com lã e amo seus trabalhos, gostaria de ganhar este kit bjos aqui do Brasil
Luciene atelieretalhosefeltros.blogspot.com
I only ever use wool felt (or wool blend if I’m stuck) for dolls, sewing projects and hair/cloth accessories, acrylic just looks and feels terrible!
I haven’t had the opportunity to use wool felt yet but I’m dying to–mainly because of the reasons you listed above. Acrylic felt has such a cheap feel to it… Thanks for the go away!!
I prefer wool, but finding it can be hard in the colors I may want.
As a lucky owner of a shiny new sewing machine (combined 40th & mothers day gift) plus mum to a soon to be 1 year old I’m looking forward to some comparative sewing testing of both types, as I must say you’ve enlightened me as I thought felt was …well, just felt…will have to do a little visit to Winterwood as I’d like anything I make for my little one to last, but also be nice and cuddly….already looking forward to it!
I have only ever used acrylic felt as a student I cannot afford to spend extra on better quality felt which is a shame. Still I enjoy many crafts and manage to use any materials I can get my hands on 😀
It has to be wool. Seeing a sweet babe snuggled into a natural wool soft toy touches your heart. Try putting acrylic in that sentence.
I use both, it depends on which one has the closest colour to match what I am making…..to cut and sew I like the wool best.
I love using acrylic felt to make small items such as needlebooks and glasses cases as they are quick and easy to cut out and stitch appliques on to. Wool felt is nicer and soft but it is expensive and hard to find in local shops.
I normally use acrylic felt, because it’s all that is easily obtained – however I also like to make my own wool felt – its super soft, and I can make any color combo I want to make a perfect match, and plus I find it fun to do, despite the extra time and effort it takes to do! 🙂
I haven’t had the opportunity to use wool felt. I have to admit, I bought some acrylic felt recently to make toys and booties from and was really unimpressed with the results. It didnt hold its shspe when manipulated to much and left fibers everywhere when cut. I didn’t know there was another option and had actually given up on that pattern because if it. I hope I win so u can give it a go.
Wool when possible, acrylic when necessary.
I always use wool felt. Love the durability and feel. Thanks for the chance
I have only ever used acrylic, but I am really interested in wool now. My only concern would be shrinkage – could you wash it/pre shrink it before making the toys? I think i am going to have to investigate myself! Thanks for the info 🙂
Hi! I don’t use felt often, and have never used the wool, but I’d love to give it a try. When I think about why I don’t use felt, it’s because I don’t like the negatives of the very available acrylic felt, and haven’t been able to find the wool. Thanks for the possible ability to try it…the Winterwood colors look fabulous!
Wool felt is definitely the best. We can’t get it here in Panama – only acrylic. I bought a pack of 5 inch squares of all the colors in the line at a quilt show in the US last year – wow what a difference in quality. I’d love to win some bigger pieces. The colors you’ve shown on your blog are gorgeous!
Ive only used acrylic felt, but I would LOVE to try some wool felt for plushies! And your patterns, as well? Holy moley, I hope I win! Good luck everyone!
I have always used acrylic – heaps of colors and so easy to use! But reading all about the winterwood wool felt – it sounds fantastic and I would love to give it a try, especially as I find the fibers in the acrylic pull apart really easily if u sew too close to the cut edge (I hand sew all of my soft toys!!)
I use whatever is available. I am planning on washing one of my husband’s suits to see what I end up with. Hope the experiment works. Thanks for the chance to win.
I have not used felt, but after reading what you had to say about it, I’ll have to try it. Thanks for the great giveaway.
I love the look of wool felt! Colors are great too. Love the giveaway!
I like the 100% wool felt because it feels a lot softer and more natural which is a plus when your making toys for tiny tots.
Carol
I prefer the wool – it gives the project a more heirloom quality to it- but we don’t have the color selection that is shown in that photo – I need to get my hands on some of those colors!!
I would prefer wool – but it’s hard to find out here and VERY expensive so I use acrylic.
Love the article, I agree I prefer wool
thanks for a fantastic post
I have not worked with wool felt. I had a wool rug that I had to remove because it played havoc with my asthma. I worry that wool felt might have the same effect on me and the special people who receive my toys. I use the acrylic. I love your patterns. Thank you.
I actually have not made anything with either one yet, so that has to change!! After reading everyone’s reviews, for the nicer softer lovies I would choose wool, but of course the acrylic would be nicer on the pocketbook if I was to made a few larger items.
I use acrylic for large projects like a display board made of peg board covered with felt so I can show craft samples in my craft booth for different shows. When I’m making something important, toys or catnip peoples for my tuxedo kitties, only the wool felt is good enough. I usually stock up at the annual Fiber Festival at our county fair grounds so I have a variety of wool felt from bunnies, sheep, goats, alpacas, buffaloes and even camels – something new every year. And I use plant dyes to get the colors that I want. Not as quick and easy as buying acrylic in a chain store, but so much more satisfying!
My fabric of choice is fleece. The kids snuggle more with them. Always willing to try new textiles.
BOTH! It just depends on what I am creating. They both come in handy and serve their own purpose. =) Thank you for posting your views on both of them!
I have never used wool felt for any of my projects. I would LOVE to have the opportunity to work with wool and make a funky friend!!
I have been using wool felt recently and have enjoyed the experience and outcome. After reading your advice I would definately choose it again. Love your toys!
I would love to win the fabric. I have never tried wool felt. I love your patterns. I made the monkey for my daughters baby shower for give aways. I actually made 5, that is how much I loved them. I haven’t sewn any more animals lately, but plan to order some for another baby shower. Great patterns!
Wool Felt! Definitely! First of all, I do prefer the wool felt because of the quality and softness. So much better for my craft projects and toy making for my children. Secondly, to prevent shrinking “After” you make your doll, simply wash the wool felt and press prior to making the craft. You said there are few colors available, at least not as many as acrylic felt. True, but did you consider wool sweaters being repurposed? This is what I do all the time!! As my children grow up and outgrow their winter wools – mostly those wonderful, colorful, sweaters, I remove the seams or simply cut shapes out of the wool and use the scraps for my doll craft projects. Not only am I able to repurpose some beautiful wool sweaters, but by washing and drying them, they become the perfect wool felt for my projects.
Thank you for the opportunity to win this stash Pauline!
Susan Vaughn
I think I’d pick the wool felt. My daughter and I made some animals a while ago, but want to get back into creating. Our stash is pretty much gone so would love to re-stock!
I always use wool felt for toys because I know how durable it is and it never pills. Also, it’s pretty easy to wipe off spills of any kind if it’s wiped up straight away. It is rather expensive, so I’d love to be a winner as I could be well prepared and make my five grandchildren something new for Christmas!
Wool felt and only wool felt. I sew for the children’s hospital and for Ronald McDonald house. Acrylic felt DOES NOT hold up like wool felt. My items get handled a lot and I have had no complaints at all about wool felt. It’s so easy to work with and doesn’t separate when sewn or played with!
Dona
https://sewingmilesofsmiles.blogspot.com
I prefer wool but use acrylic at times as well.
Pauline, your ‘Try both and THEN decide what Felt you’d like to use when!’ is spoken like a true diplomat. : ) Thank you for the helpful information.
I would use wool felt for its flexibility, feel and wear. Acrylic has its place in the craft world, but I would use a wool-acrylic blend for accent pieces, with a wider array of color choices, for accent pieces such as eyes, ears, scales…etc.
So far I have only used acrylic felt, but I would live to try wool felt it is just so hard to find locally.
When I am making toys I know don’t need to last (most of my own toys sit on a shelf), I will probably use acrylic felt, as it is readily available and in lots of colors. However, when making bears, I always use wool felt. I love the way it looks when sewn and I know it will stand up to lots of lovin!
Hi Pauline. I prefer Wool over Acrylic. Wool is so much thicker and I like the feel much better. Unfortunatly, I’m not rich so I use acrylic much more often. Hoping to snag the felt give-away and a couple of your adorable patterns
I find it hard to get wool felt so usually end up working with acrylic. However, I do prefer to work with natural fibres so buy wool when I can find what I want. If I’m making something that will need frequent washing I usually choose acrylic.
I love using woollen felt the most and I try to up-cycle felted knitwear and use that when I can but sometimes that is just too thick. For practicality I like to use a wool acyclic mix that we get over here in the UK.
I prefer to use wool but it’s so expensive.
I use acrylic as it’s cheaper to work with and as I learn/try out patterns and get better I will try wool and use it when needed.
I use acrylic, since I think it is better, when getting dirty from babyhands and mouth, that I could clean it more easely than wool.
I have always used acrylic felt for “well loved softies”. Would love to try the wool felt.
thanks for the great giveaway.
I have never used wool felt before, only acrylic
But the wool sounds great…
i haven’t made any yet, just found the site. 🙂 They look very interesting and I plan to make them soon.
I have never used either one. I would love to try the wool.
I always use wool felt… I wish I didn’t have to go online to purchase it, but it’s worth the extra cost and inconvenience!
I use scraps and thrifted materials and have used acrylic mostly but sometimes a polar fleece scrap will do. I have used wool and find it stronger when cutting, pinning and sewing it. Thank you
Wool is my preference. And since toys don’t use a great deal of it, I think it’s worth the splurge because it holds up so well and looks so nice. However, for purely decorative items like holiday ornaments that are not going to get a lot of handling and use, acrylic is fine. And if I absolutely cannot find the color I want in wool, I do go to acrylic. Don’t know if I’m just over-cautious, but I do pre-wash my wool felt before using just to make sure it won’t shrink on the finished toy!
I’ve only used acrylic when making softies for my little ones. Although I only used it for features and decoration, I could not tell you the amount of tears from my little girls’ eyes when an eye ball, heart, or mouth started coming apart. After the first few times I just gave up on felt and appliquéd. There’s nothing odder looking than a little animal with just the outline of features that have fallen off. lol
I’d LOVE to try wool but it’s not easy to come by at all. I accidentally “felted” a sweater in the wash so I suppose I could give her a try for now.
Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!
On the whole I use wool felt becuase I feel it is so much more durable and hope the toys I make will become treasured keepsakes! I usually wash it first to pre shrink it.
Would definitely have to be wool – even if I have to save up my pennies! It’s natural and chemical free which is really important to me. Great info though, thanks.
Wool felt 🙂 Because of this blog!
Wool would be my preference as it last longer and looks good even after the kids have carried it around for the time. Thankyou for creating all these wonderful patterns
I love Wool felt! It is MUCH easier to work with and has a better texture. It also doesn’t stretch or distort as badly because it is thicker.
I would use wool felt if it was easy to find because of the advantages and i like things to last long. But I have to use acrylic as that’s what easily available for me and that too in a few colors : (
I love wool felt. I keep all of my needles in a piece of wool felt. It prevents rusting. I love it for little softies and felt food. I do use acrilyc but prefer wool. It just depends on the budget.
Definitely wool, although I don’t mind acrylic for small pieces (bird beaks, etc.).
wool felt is more beautifull but softies are EASY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love wool felt! It’s timeless, durable and I feel that it’s worth the extra money. 🙂
I do like acrylic for if I’m making something quick or for practice.
Definitely wool!
Although not an issue for my family, some people are alergic to wool, so if you are making something for someone else’s child, be sure to check for alergies first.
Acrylic felt can be of nice quality and there is flimsy wool felt – find a supplier you like and keep their name handy! But I will agree that wool almost always has a nicer hand feel.
I like to use wool myself. I really enjoy your shop and all your patterns. I think this is the best website for softie patterns!
i make many quilts usually with machine ebroidery and prefer the wool felt [i call it fuzzy felt] its great for the left overs from the quilts to make cuddly softies for my kids and grandkids of all ages
I like wool felt.
I go back and forth between the 2 depending on my projects when it’s something made to last its wool and when it’s something simple that won’t be handled much i’ll use acrylic. They both have there good and bad qualities
I prefer to use wool felt when making toys as it is much better quality and it lasts longer. I am not able to go fabric shopping for the time being due to a disability and winning a stash would be awesome right now ..Thanks..
I use acrilyc, have never used wool. Love a giveaway! Thanks
I love natural fibers and will always choose them over synthetics because they look and wear well. Wool felt has a texture and robustness that withstands the test of time that I love.
I have not made anything yet with wool but I also prefer the more all natural route and would go with the wool felt!
Normally I use fleece, because this makes the plushies VERY soft. I’m not THAT big a fan of felt.
But I’ve never tried wool felt, and maybe it’s better. So I hoping and crossing my fingers, that I will win this giveaway, so I can give it a try :o)
I use whatever I can find to make my creatures so everything I get…gets used and I am having so much fun!
I am not a big fan of acrylic felt for anything beyond bulletin board letters! I just don’t like the way it feels and it does not wear well. So wool is the winner in my book.
I use wool felt as that’s the preference of my harshest critics- my children! They love the wool felt cuddlies we’ve made and it’s well worth paying a premium for :o)
I always use wool – the colors are richer, and the texture far more luxurious! Wouldn’t use anything else!
Thank you for letting us know about Winterwood’s selection!
I prefer wool felt, but I am a natural fibers kind of girl. Since most of my sewing has been for my period recreations (pre-1600s mainly) I tend to stick to linen and wool whenever possible.
For my softies, I like the wool felt since it doesn’t feel as ‘slicky icky’ as the acrylic stuff. 🙂
I think I came to the same conclusion as you did. I would opt for wool felt for all toys given as gifts. Hard to argue with anti-pill and the other benefits of natural fibres. Same reasons I mostly knit in wool 😉
Hi Pauline! After being involved in a terrible accident in Dec. I am just starting to sew again, thank you for the chance to win your give-a-way! I definitely like wool felt over acrylic for all the reasons you gave above as I make toys for playing with.
I love real wool felt, but because it’s so hard to find & expensive I only use it for special projects. We normally use acrylic felt(especially when my daughters aged 9 and 7 are “helping” to make the toys). Acrylic is cheap & cheerful, but wool is for the long haul!
I LOVE the 100% wool and refuse to use anything else. If I am putting quite a bit of time into something then I want to use the very best materials. Would anyone use acrylic yarn for needlepoint? I think it’s worth the extra cost to buy and use the best materials. CBennett
I usually use acrylic, but I would love the opportunity to try the 100% wool felt.
I like to use acrylic when I’m doing easy crafts and creating new things…..but wool is a beauty, too!
Janice
I usually make toys from polyester knit, minky dot, or felt because it “gives” for curves. I am willing to try other fabrics such as the wool if I can find the colors I need. It sounds very suitable for what I would need. I look forward to making my new Teddy Bear.
Sharon Davis, Mobile, Alabama
I usually use acrylic, but I would love the opportunity to try the 100% wool felt.
I love to use wool – find the quality so much better!
At first I thought acrylic but then I read your comments and I’m leaning towards wool, basically for the quality alone. Natural products always tend to be more expensive but have the edge on quality. Depends really on how much is used in the pattern and whether them item will undergo lots of washing.
I absolutely love working with 100% wool felt; everything from stuffies to slippers to fancy purses. I won’t work with any other.
I think I would go w/wool felt. I make toys, so the materials I make them from need to be: durable and stain resistant. I don’t like pilling and stretching. A toy losses it’s charm if it it losses it’s shape. It just doesn’t look right any more. I would have to say, wool all the way!
I much prefer the wool felt as it doesn’t go out of shape and has a better feel to it…:)
Definately wool felt than acrylic felt, it is a little moe expensive but if you shop around there isn’t much difference and you have the knowledge that it is going to last a lot longer than the acrylic one giving you a much higher quality end product so wool it has to be! X
I prefer using wool felt rather than acrylic felt because you can actually feel the difference in the quality between the two. Wool felt just feels better and is much better to work with. However, I use acrylic felt more often as its easy to find and it’s cheaper to buy.
I agree with your whole post! I’ve used acrylic felt on the past because it’s cheaper and easier to find, but if I were making a toy that I wanted to last, I would find real wool felt. I prefer the feel and even the smell of real wool to synthetic fibers. 🙂
I love Winterwood. I love their store. I prefer wool felt for just about everything. It is far more robust than the acrylic but you do need to make sure that you use quality wool felt as the cheap stuff can be too stiff and unforgiving. I have a girlfriend who is alergic to wool of all kinds and for her I have to use acrylic.
I love wool felt and yes it is expensive so I generally prefer acrylic.
I’ve only ever used acrylic felt – mainly because it is much more accessible and cheaper. I’d love to try 100% wool sometime. Thanks for the chance to win.
I like to use both felts. It depends on the project and item.
Yes i have used wool felt, as i do alot of craft work for people who are unable to do things for themselfs,
Wool or wool blend, if it was something I was going to spend time on, I wouldn’t want it to fall apart! If acrylic could be stronger, that would be real nice, so I use blend when I can find it.
It’s a hard call, but I love the look and feel of wool felt the best. I’m not fond of the shrinkage and such, but it gives a wonderful finished product. The acrylic is cheaper, though, so it makes it a lot easier to come by for me.
I would like to try WOOL….hopefully I’ll win! THANK YOU!
I have only used acrylic, both due to affordability and availability. Will definitely try to source the wool felt and give it a go after reading the pros and cons.
Thanks for the info and fantastic patterns
Mardi
I love wool. There is nothing that compares.
Hi I replied straight away but it did not go through because it needs a website and I don’t know what to put so I will try again almost 20 hours later I hope I’m not too late
I would love to enter the give away
I have only used acrylic I would love to try wool
Thank you louise
Always wanted to make a softies myself. Maybe this is a good opportunity and win some wool or acrylic felt for my softies.
Wool looks a lot nicer, feels nicer too. If I am lucky enough to come across wool felt I feel very lucky indeed. Acrylic just looks cheap. Its okay for embellishments but not for softies.
I love the feel of wool felt but find it wears quickly when played with by little grubby fingers! I’d love to win some felt to have a go at the sugar plum fairy pattern 🙂 Anna x
I use wool/blend felt for my doll/softie making. I would like to try wool felt oneday 🙂 Donna
ANNOUNCING the Winner of the FRIDAY FRENZY!
Hey Hey Hey!!! Random.org has spoken and the winner of the Winterwood Felt and FunkyFriendsFactory Toy Patterns is……
da da DAAAAAA….
Ana Cristina Monteiro-Leonel!!! – CONGRATS Ana, I will get in touch and get your address details. Thanks to EVERYONE who entered – I am STILL reading all your commments – but I think Wool Felt is the definite favourite! 🙂
Thanks AGAIN!
Pauline xxx
I love using felt its such a great material! Its great to hear about wool felt because it sounds like its a lot better than acrylic which always tears and pills when i use it… I’ll probably go out and get some wool felt for my next project
Great article! 🙂
I would love to try wool felt, i’ve only used acrylic but i’ve found the thickness varies and it doesnt hold its shape well, especially on small shapes. I was a little disapointed with the finished results. I’d love to try wool and see if i can recapture the feltie love.
I have used acrylic, but am starting to use wool as it is much better for children.:)
I have never used wool felt bit would like to try it. I am in the process of making and donating stuffed pals to a children’s hospital for sick little ones. I don’t know what the cost would be. I’ll do some research.
i like the acrylic the best. it is a lot easier to sew with to me and it can be cleaned, played with, worn, etc. i think i would vote for the acrylic.
Wool is my preference by far, but sometimes hard to get, especially in a variety of colours. Its easier to manipulate and projects feel more luxurious. And its all natural.
I use both depending on what I can get hold of, what I can afford and what I am making. If it is going to be washable I I will always use acrylic, but if it is for display only then I would use wool. X