I’ve been playing with felt since gluing pieces to make costumes and crafts during my grade school days. Part of the lure of this gentle eco fiber is how we equate it with childhood. It is soft and safe and warm. According to Wikipedia it is the oldest fabric known to mankind, predating knitting and weaving and existing as far back as 6500 B.C. We can all agree some of the best green design involves returning to the old.
I felt around for some of the best designs for the modern green home. Here are some faves that earn raves:
Felted Wool Stones: You’d have to be in a cave to miss these remarkable indoor floor cushions by renowned South African textile designer Ronel Jordaan. They’ve gotten a lot of press because they are so evocative and brilliant in execution. Made from 100% merino wool, the washable stones from Viva Terra come in three sizes, ranging in price from $298 to $595 (shown at top). For smaller spaces, try the Felt Pebbles from Branch Home, set of 6 is $92.
Quilted wool baskets (below) can be harvested at a paris flea market, but I found them at Lotus Bleu, a chic San Francisco furniture boutique. What can you do with them? It hurts my brain to count all of the ways.
.jpg)
Big Flower, $2200, is one of the many cool designs Melina Raissnia forges from felt for Peace Industry which is a fair-trade company she operates in Iran.
I love these industrial felt coasters and all the brilliant designs of Josh Jakus, $18 at Branch Home.
Who wouldn’t be hung-up on these precious birds from Pottery Barn Kids? Handmade, the sweet pair of felted chirpers dance beak-to-beak in a cozy nest to delight and add whimsy to the room. $5.99 to $19.99.
If you don’t have tons of spare time for making pillows (who does?) I really like the Autumn Felt Pillow from Bellacor in this year’s hot orchid shades, $118.
Don’t forget felt is fun, and sometimes funny. Isn’t this UFO (Unidentified Felted Object) just the thing for the crazy bed? I’d pair the visitor with a few Ugly Dolls and see who rules the room. From Etsy.
