Felting: Knitting or Crocheting – Which Works Better?

05/09/2025

Felting is one of the most fascinating fiber techniques. With the right yarn and a bit of patience, a loose knit or crochet piece transforms into a dense, warm fabric. But which method works better – knitting or crocheting? In this guide, you'll learn the differences, get a step-by-step tutorial for felting in the washing machine, plus helpful tips and project inspiration.

🧶 Which Yarn Is Best for Felting?

Felting wool (100% untreated wool, not superwash): The perfect choice – heat and agitation cause it to felt beautifully.
Alpaca or blends: Can work, but felts less strongly.
❌ Superwash or synthetics: Will not felt!

💡 Tip: The looser your stitches, the more evenly the fabric will felt.

🔍 Knitting vs. Crocheting – The Comparison

Knitting 🧦

Pros: More elastic stitches, allowing fabric to shrink more evenly when felted.
Result: Smooth, flexible felt.
Best for: Slippers, bags, clothing.

Crocheting 🧺

Pros: Denser stitch structure, resulting in sturdier finished items.
Result: Coarser, less elastic felt.
Best for: Baskets, coasters, home décor.

👉 Conclusion: Knitting for wearable items, crocheting for stability – both have their place!

🌀 Step-by-Step: Felting in the Washing Machine

Work your piece larger than intended (shrinks ~20–40%).
Place it in a laundry bag (to reduce lint).
Wash at 40–60 °C with regular detergent (not wool wash).
Add jeans or towels for extra friction.
After washing, pull the item into shape while damp and leave flat to dry.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Always make a test swatch first.
Sew seams with cotton yarn – it won't felt and keeps seams strong.
Block and shape while damp for even surfaces.

🎨 Project Ideas for Felting

Slippers – warm and practical.
Bags & baskets – sturdy and stylish.
Seat cushions – cozy and insulating.
Mittens – weatherproof and durable.
Décor – felted balls, coasters, ornaments.

💛 My Conclusion

Felting is full of surprises – no project looks exactly the same before and after washing. But that's what makes it magical. Whether knitted or crocheted, with the right yarn you'll create long-lasting, unique pieces.

Have you tried felting before?

🏷️ Share your projects and tips in my Facebook group or tag me with #knittingtrends – let's explore this versatile technique together!

#knittingtrends #madeinlove #felting #crochettechnique #knittingtechnique

Felting is a little adventure every time – each wash cycle hides a surprise!
Warmly,

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶

Want to dive deeper into the world of stitches?
Explore my patterns, browse the blog, or join our community!