Description

Felt making was once a major textile industry in Britain. but today there is virtually no sign that it ever existed. This book documents the rise of the felt industry from its early beginnings in the early nineteenth century to its eventual collapse a few years before the new millenium. However, it is not just a history it explains in detail how felt was made commercially and what the precise conditions were to make the best felt. The book also covers the social aspects of the industry with portraits of the personalities who shaped the course of events. Much of the content is original and has never been published before and gives a unique insight into how felt making was conducted in Britain and the impact it made on everyday products. Technical aspects of making felt are dealt with in a way that is accessible to everyone, without the need for any prior knowledge. The book is aimed at anyone with an interest in felt, including textile historians, or craft felt makers who want to commercialise their creations.