How To Knit 19 Row Felted Slippers: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Are you ready to cozy up your feet with a pair of handmade felted slippers? Knitting these slippers is a satisfying project, perfect for knitters of all skill levels. This guide focuses on a specific pattern – the 19-row felted slipper – known for its simplicity and effectiveness. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create warm, durable, and stylish footwear.

This pattern is a fantastic introduction to felted knitting. It offers a great way to learn about gauge, the felting process, and how to create a three-dimensional object. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right yarn and needles to the final felting process. Get ready to cast on and embark on a rewarding knitting adventure!

Table of Contents show

Getting Started: Materials and Preparation

Before you cast on, gather your supplies. The right materials are crucial for a successful project. Here’s what you’ll need:

Yarn: 100% Wool Yarn. This is the most important element. Superwash wool will not felt. Look for a yarn that is specifically labeled as ‘felting wool’ or ‘non-superwash wool’. The weight of the yarn can vary slightly, but a worsted weight or aran weight yarn generally works best. Consider the color; darker colors tend to hide dirt better. Ensure you have enough yarn for both slippers. A single skein (approximately 200-250 yards) is usually sufficient for a pair.
Knitting Needles: US Size 8 (5 mm) or US Size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles or straight needles. The needle size is crucial for achieving the correct gauge. If you are using straight needles, you’ll need two. Circular needles are often preferred as the stitches are held on the cable, making them easier to manage.
Stitch Markers: These are essential for marking the beginning of the round and increases/decreases. Use at least 4 stitch markers.
Tapestry Needle: For weaving in the yarn ends.
Scissors: For cutting the yarn.
Measuring Tape: To check your gauge and measure the slipper’s progress.
Washing Machine: This is where the felting magic happens! Make sure your washing machine is clean and in good working order.
Laundry Detergent: A small amount of detergent is needed. Use a detergent that is gentle and doesn’t contain additives like bleach or fabric softener. Consider using a detergent specifically designed for wool.
Optional: A shoe last or a slipper form for shaping the slippers during the drying process. These can help maintain the slipper’s shape.

Yarn Selection: A Deep Dive

The yarn is arguably the most critical component. Superwash wool is treated to prevent felting. You *must* use 100% wool yarn that is NOT superwash. Non-superwash wool fibers have tiny scales that interlock when agitated in hot water, causing the fabric to felt. Consider these factors when choosing your yarn:

Fiber Content: 100% wool is non-negotiable. Blends may not felt properly.
Weight: Worsted or Aran weight yarns are popular choices. They felt well and create a sturdy slipper.
Color: Choose a color you like! Darker colors may hide dirt better, but the choice is yours. Consider how the color might change after felting.
Yardage: Check the yarn label to determine how much yarn you need. One skein (around 200-250 yards) is generally enough for a pair, but it’s always a good idea to have a little extra.

Needle Selection and Gauge Swatch

Choosing the right needle size is essential for achieving the correct gauge, which affects the slipper’s final size and fit. Before starting your slippers, it’s highly recommended to knit a gauge swatch. This small swatch will help you determine if your needle size is appropriate for your chosen yarn and knitting style. Here’s how to create a gauge swatch:

Cast On: Cast on approximately 20-25 stitches using your chosen needle size (US size 8 or 9).
Knit in Stockinette Stitch: Knit in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) for about 4 inches.
Bind Off: Bind off loosely.
Wash and Dry: Wash the swatch in hot water and machine dry it to felt it. This simulates the felting process your slippers will undergo.
Measure Your Gauge: Once the swatch is dry, measure how many stitches and rows fit within a 4-inch square. For example, your gauge might be 4 stitches and 6 rows per inch.
Adjust Needle Size if Necessary: If your gauge is significantly different from the pattern’s suggested gauge, adjust your needle size. A smaller needle will produce a tighter gauge, while a larger needle will produce a looser gauge.

Gauge is important because it directly affects the finished size of your slippers after felting. If your gauge is too loose, your slippers will be too large. If it’s too tight, they’ll be too small. Taking the time to create and measure a gauge swatch will save you from potential disappointment later on. (See Also: Do Haflinger Slippers Stretch )

The 19-Row Slipper Pattern: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! This pattern is designed to be simple and easy to follow, perfect for beginners. The instructions are detailed, so you can knit with confidence.

Abbreviations Used:

K: Knit
P: Purl
K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
SSK: Slip, slip, knit (decrease)
M1L: Make one left (increase – see instructions below)
M1R: Make one right (increase – see instructions below)

Instructions:

Cast On: Cast on 20 stitches using your chosen needles and yarn.
Rows 1-2: Knit. (20 stitches)
Row 3: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (22 stitches)
Row 4: Purl.
Row 5: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (24 stitches)
Row 6: Purl.
Row 7: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (26 stitches)
Row 8: Purl.
Row 9: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (28 stitches)
Row 10: Purl.
Row 11: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (30 stitches)
Row 12: Purl.
Row 13: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (32 stitches)
Row 14: Purl.
Row 15: K1, M1R, knit to last stitch, M1L, K1. (34 stitches)
Row 16: Purl.
Row 17: K1, SSK, knit to last 3 stitches, K2tog, K1. (32 stitches)
Row 18: Purl.
Row 19: K1, SSK, knit to last 3 stitches, K2tog, K1. (30 stitches)
Bind Off: Bind off all stitches loosely.

Increase and Decrease Techniques

Understanding the increase and decrease techniques is crucial for shaping the slipper.

M1L (Make One Left): Insert the left needle from front to back under the bar between the last stitch on the right needle and the next stitch on the left needle. Knit this stitch through the back loop.
M1R (Make One Right): Insert the left needle from back to front under the bar between the last stitch on the right needle and the next stitch on the left needle. Knit this stitch.
K2tog (Knit Two Together): Knit two stitches together as one. This decreases one stitch.
SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit): Slip the next two stitches knitwise, one at a time, to the right needle. Then, insert the left needle into the fronts of these two slipped stitches and knit them together. This is a left-leaning decrease.

Finishing the First Slipper

Once you’ve finished knitting the first slipper, you’ll have a flat piece of knitted fabric. This fabric needs to be seamed to create the slipper shape. Here’s how to do it: (See Also: How Do You Clean Haflinger Wool Slippers )

Seaming the Slipper: Fold the knitted piece in half, right sides facing each other. Using a tapestry needle and yarn, seam the edges together. You can use a mattress stitch or a simple whip stitch. Seam up the back of the heel and the front of the toe, leaving the top open for your foot.
Weaving in Ends: Carefully weave in all loose yarn ends using your tapestry needle. This will make your slipper look neat and professional.

The Felting Process: Transforming Your Knitwork

Felting is what transforms your knitted piece into a dense, felted slipper. This process involves exposing the wool fibers to hot water, agitation, and soap. Here’s a step-by-step guide to felting your slippers:

Prepare the Washing Machine: Make sure your washing machine is clean. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid detergents with bleach or fabric softener.
Hot Water Cycle: Set your washing machine to a hot water cycle. The hotter the water, the better the felting process.
Agitation: Choose a cycle with a moderate to high agitation level. This is crucial for the felting process, as it causes the wool fibers to interlock.
Place the Slippers in the Machine: Place the knitted slippers in the washing machine. You can add a towel or two to provide additional agitation.
Wash: Run the washing machine through a full cycle. Check the slippers periodically, as felting times can vary depending on your washing machine and yarn. Start checking after about 5 minutes of agitation.
Check for Felting: After the first cycle, check the slippers. They should have shrunk and become denser. If they haven’t felted enough, run them through another cycle. If they have felted too much, you can try stretching them out gently.
Rinse: Once the slippers are felted to your liking, rinse them in cold water to remove any remaining soap.
Shape the Slippers: This is a crucial step for achieving the right shape. While the slippers are still wet, shape them by hand. You can gently stretch them to the desired size and shape. Consider using a shoe last or slipper form for this step if you have one.
Dry: Allow the slippers to air dry. This can take several hours or even a day or two. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source. As they dry, they will retain their final shape.

Troubleshooting Felting

Felting can be a bit unpredictable, but here are some common issues and how to address them:

Slippers not felting enough: Run them through another hot water cycle with more agitation.
Slippers felting too much: Try stretching them out while they are still wet. You may also need to adjust your washing machine settings for future pairs.
Uneven felting: Ensure the slippers are not tangled during the felting process. You can also try flipping them inside out during the second wash cycle.

Finishing Touches and Customization

Once your slippers are dry, you can add finishing touches and customize them to your liking. Here are some ideas:

Add a Sole: For increased durability and grip, consider adding a leather or felt sole to the bottom of the slipper. You can purchase pre-made soles or create your own.
Embellishments: Add decorative elements such as embroidery, beads, or buttons.
Colorwork: Incorporate colorwork patterns into your knitting for added visual interest.
Cuffs: Knit a simple cuff and attach it to the top of the slipper for a more finished look.
Lining: Add a fleece or fabric lining for extra warmth and comfort.

Tips for Long-Lasting Slippers

With proper care, your felted slippers will provide years of warmth and comfort. Here are some tips for maintaining them:

Spot Clean: Clean any stains immediately with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Gentle Washing: If necessary, hand wash your slippers in cool water with a mild detergent. Avoid machine washing after the initial felting.
Air Dry: Always air dry your slippers. Avoid placing them in a dryer.
Storage: Store your slippers in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Knitting the Second Slipper and Troubleshooting Common Issues

With the first slipper completed, you’re ready to knit the second one! Follow the exact same pattern and instructions as the first. It’s helpful to have the first slipper as a guide as you knit the second, ensuring both are as similar as possible. (See Also: How Do Ugg Scuffette Slippers Fit )

Common Issues and Solutions:

Slippers different sizes: This is often due to variations in gauge or felting. Ensure you use the same needle size, yarn, and felting process for both slippers. If the sizes differ after felting, gently stretch the smaller slipper to match the larger one while it’s still wet.
Holes in the slipper: This can occur if the yarn breaks during knitting or if you accidentally drop a stitch. Repair small holes with a tapestry needle and yarn, weaving in the ends carefully.
Uneven edges: Be mindful of your tension while knitting and try to maintain a consistent gauge throughout.

Advanced Techniques and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic 19-row pattern, you can explore advanced techniques and variations to personalize your slippers.

Different Stitch Patterns: Experiment with different stitch patterns, such as ribbing for the cuff or seed stitch for the body of the slipper.
Colorwork: Introduce colorwork techniques, such as stripes, Fair Isle, or intarsia, to create unique designs.
Adding a Heel Flap: For a more structured heel, try incorporating a heel flap.
Increasing or Decreasing Rows: Adjust the number of rows to modify the slipper’s length.
Adding a Lining: Sew a fleece or fabric lining inside the felted slipper for added warmth and comfort.

Resources and Inspiration

There are numerous resources available to help you further develop your knitting skills and find inspiration for your projects.

Online Knitting Communities: Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to knitting. Share your projects, ask questions, and learn from other knitters.
Knitting Books and Magazines: Explore knitting books and magazines for patterns, techniques, and inspiration.
YouTube Tutorials: Watch video tutorials to learn new techniques and see patterns in action.
Ravelry: Explore Ravelry, a vast online community for knitters and crocheters. You can find patterns, connect with other knitters, and share your projects.

Conclusion

Knitting 19-row felted slippers is a rewarding and accessible project for knitters of all levels. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a pair of cozy, warm slippers perfect for yourself or as a thoughtful gift. Remember to pay close attention to the yarn selection, gauge, and felting process to ensure a successful outcome. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, embellishments, and techniques to customize your slippers and make them truly your own.

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Enjoy the process, embrace the learning, and revel in the satisfaction of wearing your handmade felted slippers. Happy knitting!