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How to Restore Old Felt Stockings

Felt is made from matting and compressing certain types of fur, wool and synthetic fibers into unwoven fabric sheets using heat, moisture and pressure. Felt is sturdy and often used as a liner and in the construction of hats and decorations. Stockings, such as the ones hung to collect presents at Christmas, are often made of felt. These crafts are decorative and durable, but dust, dirt and lint balls easily adhere to the felt over time, making it necessary to restore the felt. Principles of restoring felt hats may be used to keep felt stockings looking fresh and bright.

Things You'll Need

Soft-bristle brush
Damp washcloth
Makeup sponge
Foam rubber
Art gum
Teakettle

Instructions

- 1
  Use a soft-bristle brush to loosen and remove debris. Use gentle strokes in a counterclockwise motion. Use light-colored bristles for light-colored stockings and dark-colored bristles for dark-colored stockings.
- 2
  Use a damp washcloth to remove excess debris. Use a counterclockwise motion.
- 3
  Rub a makeup sponge, foam rubber or art gum eraser in counterclockwise circles to remove stubborn stains. The waxy surface of these will attach debris and pull it away from the felt.
- 4
  Hold the stocking over steam from your teakettle and gently pull it back into its proper shape if needed. Hold it in place until completely dry.

Antiquing