Trockenfilzen

Trockenfilzen, also known as needle felting, is a crafting technique used to create three-dimensional objects or two-dimensional pictures from wool fibers. The process involves using special barbed needles to repeatedly poke and entangle wool roving, which causes the fibers to interlock and condense, forming a dense felted material. The needles are designed with small hooks or barbs along their shaft. As the needle penetrates the wool, these barbs catch individual wool fibers and pull them through the mass, causing them to become intertwined and felted. The more the wool is poked, the denser and firmer the resulting felt becomes.

Unlike wet felting, which uses water and soap to achieve felting, dry felting relies solely on the mechanical action of the needles. This method allows for precise shaping and the creation of intricate details. Tools for dry felting typically include one or more felting needles, often mounted in a handle for easier use, and a foam or brush mat to protect the work surface and the needles. The wool used is typically unspun, carded wool roving, which is readily available in a wide range of colors. Crafters can sculpt figures, create decorative items, embellish textiles, or produce miniature artworks using this versatile technique.