The process of transforming knitted or woven wool fabric into a denser, non-raveling material through agitation, moisture, and heat is achievable using a standard washing machine. This transformation, known as fulling, creates a unique fabric with a felted texture, distinct from the original yarn or fabric structure. An example would be shrinking a loosely knit sweater into a dense, more compact form.
Creating felted wool offers several advantages. The resulting fabric is thicker and more durable, providing greater warmth and insulation. Its resistance to fraying eliminates the need for hemming or other edge finishing. This technique has a long history, predating modern machinery, with evidence suggesting early cultures utilized similar methods to create clothing and other textiles. The convenience of using a washing machine modernizes this age-old process.