Things You'll Need:
- Straight or circular knitting needles
- Yarn required by pattern
- Tapestry needle
- Ruler (optional)
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Step 1
Create a circular purse without seams by using circular or double pointed needles. Beginners can use straight needles to make a rectangular purse with seams . If the selected pattern was not written to be felted, just use larger needles, because felting will shrink the piece, according to Knitty.
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Step 2
Use worsted weight or wool yarn, which are washable. Double knit weight yarn is an option, as well. Some colors might fade in the wash, so make a test swatch. It is not a good idea to use yarns that are labeled as being extra-washable in any way, because these yarns will actually resist felting, according to Knitty magazine.
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Step 3
Test a swatch of the work if the purse must be a very specific measurement. Knit a small block inches of stitches and rows, measure the piece, felt, then measure again.
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Step 4
Make a test swatch for each yarn used. Different yarns felt differently.
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Step 5
Sew the seam by aligning the border stitches together, wrong side facing. Use the same yarn used for the work itself. Sew the very outermost stitches, the border stitches top to bottom and back to top. Continue in this fashion until the item is secured. Finish by weaving in ends.
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Step 6
Felt by method of choice. According to Knitty, different methods are available, one of which is boiling water or running hot water from the tap onto the piece, then pinning the knitted piece down into shape and drying. Try using a washing machine for a more rigorous felting. Place the knitted piece in a laundry bag with a pair of jeans to increase the level of friction. Wash, then pin and air-dry, according to Knit One, Felt Too.
