h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Stranded, you *can* make felt from other materials, just make sure you use natural fibres, not man made fibres.
The whole action of shrinking and felting relies on the natural scales in a hair strand, that, when put under pressure, and water, will knit it into the adjacent fibres. (Man made fibres do NOT have these scales). From books I've read, and people I've talked to, you can make felt from almost any long strands of fibre ( I use this term only because it's better in my opinion that using 'wool' or 'hair').
Silk, cotton, human and dog hair have been shown as exmples, but it's best, according to experienced felters, to get hold of a small amount and try to felt it in your hands first, to see how durable it is, or how much effort it's going to take to make it hard enough for your personal requirement.
I sincerely hope this helps, I've read, books, spoken to people, but not got the time to make anything yet (or the money!), but I will some time soon...

'Bvt