Guest Picks: Fun Felts!
22 modern interpretations of one of the world's oldest textiles
One of the oldest textiles, felt has been enjoyed through the ages by many cultures around the globe. (The nomadic tribes of Ghengis Khan even used it to fashion their yurts.) Extremely malleable, this non-woven fabric can be rendered as soft as a kitten or as strong as an ox, and it can take on almost any form. Such versatility also makes this age-old material completely viable in a modern context. Today's designers are taking felt to whole new heights, where it's not only functional, but totally fun! — Justine from Design Skool
Warm Gray Stone Hand Felted Wool Cat Bed/Vessel by Vaiva Nat
No reason kitty can't be contemporary too. This felt cat bed/vessel by Vaiva Nat is the first I've ever seen that I'd actually want to display prominently.
Icosa Pendant
Parchment shades have long been recognized for the warm hue they produce. But how about felt? Made into this geodesic dome shape, the Icosa Lamp is both modern and timeless.
Round Felt Cushions
Add a bit of warmth (not to mention comfort) to any chair with these colorful cushions from Nepal. If you're really in a playful mood, just toss them around the floor for some very casual seating. Easy and versatile, they're a great way to enliven your decorative scheme.
Knitted Vase Cover BLOOM by Hogenbirk Knitwear
Available in many colors and custom designs, Erica Hogenbirk's wool vases are so original and fun! Just slip one over an old wine bottle to add character to any room.
Relief Chair
Constructed out of layers of natural wool felt that contour to the body, the Relief Chair is both eco-friendly and ergonomic. Add its striking modernist silhouette to these virtues, and you have a design triple threat.
Hexrug Rug or Wall Hanging
Aurelie Tu's crafted rug is almost too special to walk on. Luckily, it's so unique that it's equally fabulous as a wall hanging.
Avva Breadbasket
Lunchtime just got a lot more special with these Avva Felt Breadbaskets from Teroforma. They've taken the age-old practice of tying up your bread to keep it warm and made it throughly modern.
Felt Storage Pail
I've always loved jolly pails as an easy storage option, and these are felt. How unexpected.
Modern Tea Cozy, "Shorn" with Tassel by Argyle St.
The tradition of tea comes with a modern twist. This felt cozy from Argyle St. is so striking that I'm almost tempted to wear it as a hat.
Hut Up Felt Rabbits
Who doesn't love rabbits? These minimalist felt figures from Hut Up have all the essence of a bunny without being too saccharine.
Felt Ball & Bird Garland by Radish and Ruth
This felted bird garland by Bec would be such a lively addition to a child's room or nursery. It's cute enough for kids, but it would also be quite at home with more sophisticated decor.
Hot Pink Felt Bag Organizer by Samorga
This felt bag organizer is so beautiful that I'm more inclined to keep it out on the desk, front and center.
Felted Jacquard Hot Water Bottle Cover by Lorraine
I love the contemporary twist on this oh-so-low-tech warmer. It makes a cozy staple even cozier.
Felted Wool Nesting Bowls, Oatmeal/Winter White by Blackbird Design House
For storing a myriad of small objects, these felted bowls are perfect for the bedroom or bath.
Wool Punch PIllow
Other than its wonderful texture, one of the great things about felt is how it makes color seem even richer. An array of these Wool Punch Pillows in a neutral room would be a wonderful way to add some design punch.
Cascade Felt Table Centerpiece/Placemat by Reyart
Gray felt with natural wood and white ceramics is such a winning combination. To me, this mix of warm and cool natural elements is totally irresistible.
Florafelt Full 12-Pocket Living Wall Panel
I saw these at one of my favorite design stores and thought that they were truly inspired. Though they are designed to be planted with a sparse mixture of feathery ferns and succulents, they could also make great small storage.
BNB Crafts Felt Hot Pads from Nepal
BNB Crafts' Felt Hot Pads from Nepal are jolly and modern. I think they would look perfect accenting a neutral/natural kitchen.
Colorblock Carryall
A great bag sitting by the door or hanging on a peg is like a piece of decor — one that you can take with you! This color block felt number by Graf and Lantz is both sophisticated and fun.
UM Project - Ray Chair
This is a classic upright chair with a twist. The felted seat and back make the Ray Chair more welcoming while still maintaining good clean lines.
FUZ Wine Pocket
Josh Jakus was being innovative with recycled felt long before it became cool. His wine pocket is one of my favorites; it's a nice way to dress up a hostess gift.
Roost "Cloud" Felt Rug
I love the deep indigo of this handmade felt rug from Roost. With tie-dye accents, it's both retro and cool.
Next: An artist's unique modular felt tapestries
Next: An artist's unique modular felt tapestries