Wet felting is a process of using a combination of friction, agitation, soap, and water to make felt out of wool fibers. The process involves changing the pH of the wool and allowing the scales on the fibers to open up, which allows the fibers to interlock and form a fabric. Wet felting is often used to create simple designs or shapes that do not require careful attention to detail, and it can be used as the base for needle felting crafts. The process of wet felting involves the following steps:

1. Preparing your work area: Create a clear working area on a table or flat solid surface and set it up to protect it from water spillage. Put a vinyl tablecloth down or a piece of plastic sheeting, and have a bath towel to hand to mop up any spillages.

2. Choosing your materials: You will need good quality wool tops, with Merino being the best option. You will also need a selection of colored tops, soap, hot water, and rubber gloves if you have sensitive skin.

3. Laying out the wool: Lay out the wool in thin layers, making sure that the fibers are running in the same direction. You can add more little pieces of wool and keep adding soapy water at any stage.

4. Agitating the wool: Rub the wool with your hands, applying pressure and friction to encourage the fibers to interlock. You can also use a bamboo mat or a towel to help with the process.

5. Rinsing: When the piece is felted, rinse off the soap in warm water, either under the tap or in a bowl of water.

Wet felting is a kid-friendly activity that can be done indoors or outdoors. It is a great way to create unique pieces of felted fiber art, and there are many different ways to wet felt and dozens of tutorials to follow.