Score!! you and Brian found such great pieces on your thrifting adventure. thanks for the tutorial about felting. very helpful. i would have been tempted to wear that fabulous woodland sweater that Brian found. so happy to see you back today Jeri! linda from california
Wow, you got quite a lot! Awesome! I love your green and purple shirt. I'll have to start looking for wool at second hand stores. I want some merino wool socks.
I absolutely LOVE cashmere for winter!! Its so wonderfully warm!! Keeps you warm in the coldest weather when youre outside walking or youre out in the pasture with the horses! You got a great find when you found that cashmere! No idea what this "felting" is that you just mentioned (??) but cashmere is great at the thrift! A real score there!! Way better than regular wool! Only at the 2:57 mark of the video...
@@JeriBellini I love thrift stores! Before watching your videos - I binge watched these past ones - I did not know I wanted so badly to felt sweaters and slow stitch them!!! Thank you for your awesome content. I hope you feel better soon. Sometimes our bodies have to scream so our minds listen that we need a break.
That shop is huge! If I lived near there, my entire house would be thrift-store furnished. Why buy new? The tip about taking a needle or pin with you, checking if fabric would sew easily is a really good one. I'll definitely try felting if I can find any pure new wool in our local charity shop. The men's section is always worth more of a browse than the women's. Too many 'fashion' sweaters in the women's, made for looks not warmth, all nasty acrylic. Thanks for the video, and I think every gal needs a Brian when she's searching for bargains!
My entire house IS furnished with used of one sort or another. It's my go to and I love the character of old things. And for sure Brian is a bargain hunter, he loves a deal! 🤣 💜💜💜
Always bring the hangers up to the front with you. You should never leave the empty hangers on the racks because that alerts to the staff that something has been shoplifted and also makes it difficult to manage the store's hangers
Someone else mentioned this, I do bring them up, unless they are restocking right next to me and want the hangers. I know it looked like I left them, because when I was showing the sweaters I took them off the hangers. I do edit out a lot of things on my video. I always try to do the right thing. I appreciate everything the volunteers do at the thrift store. I live a little too far to do it but it would be so fun to be a volunteer! 💜
Love your videos, Jeri! I found your channel by accident and I’m so glad I did! I’m trying to age gracefully/gratefully, too. You are such a blessing and an inspiration to me. ❤❤❤❤❤
Hi Happy Eyes RUclips friend Jeri! Love your creepy doll on the scales 🙂 I was cracking up laughing as I watched you touch all that wool and I am Sew Hot in the SW and with my own personal summer going all year long. x's lj
Hello sweet friend, I wondered if anyone would see the creepy baby! 😂 We had a great time! And I’m still having a great time cutting them up! It’s been raining here and finally starting to cool off a little bit, might need to wear one of the sweaters soon! 😂 💜💜💜
But wool is sheep hair. Does felting have anything to do with the lanolin in wool? I don't have many wool clothes (outerwear only and one crepe suit) - too itchy.
I respectfully disagree. Cashmere, angora, and mohair absolutely WILL felt (full). Three things are needed most times to felt fibers: friction, heat, and soap. Be aware that on some fibers only friction is needed ( ex. Long haired cats, fine haired dogs & angora bunnies will matt [that’s felting]). (Some fibers are treated not to felt. They’re called “superwash” or “washable wool”. ) Your “fine” cashmere possibly didn’t felt well because thin, tightly spun yarn fibers cannot move freely in the process and the needed friction is limited. Cashmere is a very short fiber and must be tightly spun for strength. Tightly spun fibers don’t rub up against each other as a softly spun fiber yarn would but unless it is treated it should still felt. When fabric is hot shocking it quickly in cold water may facilitate felting (fulling). While wool is technically not hair, hair WILL felt. Dreadlocks anyone?
@@dhurd4099 well my pink cashmere sweater did felt. So I’m leaning towards your explanation. I generally do the hand test, if it feels “full” I’ll give it a go when the price is right. I did purchase a wool sweater that didn’t felt, it was not labeled superwash and it did not have anything on the label to indicate it wouldn’t felt. However it said Woolrich, I suspect that meant super washed. And it just didn’t feel right but it was cheap so I gave it a try. You must be willing to experiment! 💜
Wonderful video thank you for sharing it with me. You have a beautiful smile and I can see your eyes shine when speak about your sweater your going to felt. I’ve been away for a bit and just seeing your happiness makes me feel good.❤❤❤
Hi Jeri, you’re going to be so busy, thank you so much for taking us along with you. It was informative and fun to watch. I cant wait to see how you are going to use all that felt. Bella xx
Inspired and slightly in awe of your skills and shopping ability - I went to 6 charity shops (thrift store) in a little village called Thame in Oxford England. I found a couple of 100% Wool jumpers and they were £25. about $33 - each!!! So, I got some buttons and have asked my workmates if they have any - I will not be beaten - thanks for everything - I love your videos x
Hi Kelly, I was thinking the same. Here in Melbourne a pure wool jumper is now considered a collectible, vintage fashion item that costs way more than a few years ago. I used to buy them, cut them into strips and make hooked rugs out of them. Now I couldn't afford to do that.
Wow the size of that store! Mine is smaller than just the book section of yours and our prices are at least double. Sometimes we get 50%off days but nothing ever under a dollar.
I'm hearing this over and over, I guess we better count our blessings and I also guess it's why our Etsy shops do well and we ship a lot to the west coast! 💜 Enjoy your weekend Dawn!
What a fun trip! That is the nicest thrift store I've ever seen. Sadly, some in my area are nothing like this one. You made quite the haul and it was fun to see how excited you are with each piece.
You and Brian are adorable!! Hubby and I thrift weekly and I'm always looking for wool. Never thought of coats and skirts - thanks for that!! I've felted a lot but I'd love to see more ideas of what to do with the felt. Also, thanks for the tip about cashmere. Mine hasn't felted too well either and I never thought about the fact that the yarn is so thin. Makes sense! I figure I can use it for needle felting. Great job on all your videos and thanks!!
Shopping is such fun, thanks for sharing your tips on felting wool. I’m heading to Northern MN next month and will have to shop a few thrift stores along the way. Have an amazing weekend. 🌻
That’s a great haul. I find it hard to find woollen jumpers here in Western Australia, maybe because it’s mostly hot and winter is mild. Love the colours you found too. Thank you for your video, I love watching what you are up to.
Yes, I imagine no one wears those in the hotter climates so it makes sense you won't see them. 😥 for you! 💜 I love being able to see what other people have in parts of the world that I know I'll never see. Thank you for hanging out with me! 💜
I subscribed because I can hardly wait to see those felted wool projects. I bet they will be great! Brava to you for thrifting and NOT at Goodwill. (Lila was my mom's name!)
Am so happy your vid came up in my suggestions...new subscriber!🎉 You remind me of my Sis, so creative! She and I would love to come up with artful projects. She wouldve loved what you do, as well!
I wished we had stores where I live. I could get lost there😮. I used to do felting and I enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing your video. I hope you found lots of sweaters.
Beautiful treasures and you know my attraction to Lady Bugs. Love your jeep!! Quote: “Kindness is the art of creating masterpieces in the hearts of others.” - Unknown. Huge HUGS and kind thoughts. Namaste 🐞🐞🐞
That thrift store is huge. I learned a lot from your shopping trip. Thank you. I’ve missed seeing you. So happy to see you back. Alex Anderson from The Quilt Show is doing circles now because she saw yours and with Sue Spargo’s stitching it’s an other rabbit hole 😂 Can’t tell you how much I enjoy you.
oooooo, I love what you are doing with the recycled sweaters. Did I hear you say that you might be making and selling some of the wool in bundles? If so, I am interested. I didn't see any in your shop, so I may have mis-heard you. I'm in California and we don't have the cold winters that you have back east. Wool sweaters are few and far between. Thanks Jeri! KimE
Yes, I already made a few kits for a project. I'm working on a video to go along wiht it now. There's a link in the box below, that takes you to my shop. ShopAtTheLittleHouse on Etsy. 💜
@@JeriBellini Thank you Jeri. Rather than a kit, I was thinking more of a bundle of various wool pieces like a charm pack or layer cake. I’ll keep my eye on your shop in case you decide to put any of these together. Thank you again. I love what you are creating. Also, the video of you and Brian in that gigantic thrift store was hilarious! xxoo
That looked so much fun and the store was huge with so much stuff in it😳 The prices were really cheap compared with UK prices. In Uk you would pay £8 for a man’s shirt £15 for a jacket at least. A wool jacket would be more like £25.
Isn't it crazy how pices vary so much. I'm so glad I can pick things up for a reasonable price, otherwise I would never be able to make the kits for you guys and I love doing that! 💛
The size of that store blows me away. There really is very little reason to buy new. There is already so much stuff in this world. Came here to say that cashmere typically does not felt because it is hair not wool but I noticed others have already said that. You had some fantastic finds there. Thank you for sharing, you are such fun to watch.
I got the most gorgeous lavender angora sweater one Christmas when I was in high school. Back then - late 50s, early 60s, it seemed that it did not matter how big you were, you wore a size 40. It was lovely even though it swam on me! One day, I had washed it and had it spread out to dry. My oh-so-have-to-have-things- nice mother had company and put all of the clothes in the family room in the washer just to get them out of the way and didn't pull my sweater out of the mix. A 3 year old might have been small enough for it. It had been so amazing to wear - soft and draped wonderfully, until it did not. I kept it for a while but it made me depressed to see it so I donated it. Back then, it seemed that shrinking was the norm, not the exception!
Wow just loved your video have nothing like that store in Australia we do have second hand shops but can be expensive, how do you felt the wool jumpers?
Wow, that shop is enormous! We don't have anything that large in New Zealand. I found it interesting what you were saying about Merino wool. I have some jumpers (sweaters) that are thin now. I was going to ask you if they would be good to felt, but you answered my question at the beginning of the video ☺️ Thanks so much for sharing. I really enjoyed it
Hi Karen, I suppose if you were totally done wearing it, you could try but I don't think it would do too much. I have had a few sweaters that I just keep washing and tumbling dry and very slowly they get thicker. Thanks for commenting! 💜💜💜
You really hit the jackpot, Ive never been so lucky! Where are you in PA? I'm in south central. Felting thrift store sweaters is my favorite, I make upcycled bags and purses...
@@JeriBelliniit pays to go often, but I dont often get to! I just realized I turned 55 LAST year and therefore missed out on the sr discount for a who year! (I thought I as turning 55 this year 12/26)
Most of the thrift shops here aren't this big, this one was a department store that went out of business and it's our favorite. I'll have to bring you along to some of the others that we go to. 💜
This got me thinking,i wonder if crochet would felt, i was gifted yarn thats pure wool but quite rough so i dont want to work it up into clothing or blankets ,but wondering if i worked it up and felted it,if it would work, hmmmmm i feel a experiment coming on lol ive never felted so will be interesting.
It SURE would! I made all these ear warmers with a "Lambs Pride" wool yarn years ago. They are now amazing felted bits of wonderfulness! I did have to wash them a few times... Look for wool scarves too at the thrift store. I'll post a pic on my community page, do you know how to get to that? Go to my Home Page and look for the word "Community". I've already cut some into circles for the next project! 💜💜💜
Wow! Your prices at the thrift store are so much better than ours! I live in Eastern Canada and a wool sweater here at our thrift stores range from $12-$15 each! I’m so jealous!
I love how Brian and you have a laugh about things - Ian and I do that too. I told him once that one of the reasons I married him was his sense of humour! And what a great haul of knitwear!! 💕😊
Brian and I always have fun when we're out and we seem to make people smile, like that guy in the blue shirt if you saw him... I only noticed him when I was editing and it made me laugh! We had all the check-out ladies laughing too! We're lucky girls. And YES! I got some amazing sweaters! 💜💜💜
Hi Jeri, I’m also in PA. Where is this thrift store? I would love to visit it. Your videos are always so enjoyable and informative. It was nice to see Brian. You always mention him but I’ve never been able to put a face to the name.
You and Brian are so cute together. Loved your trip to the thrift store. You should consider checking out Catbird Quilts (if you haven’t already). She shops at thrift stores for men’s shirts and makes quilts from them. Can’t wait to start felting. Thanks, as always!
Great video. Would like to see more about how you choose sweaters with no labels. Also, is there any thinking around using up perfectly good sweaters to cut up? I try and find sweaters I don't think will be worn again... they have holes/stains, etc. Just wondering, not a judgment at all. Finally, I always bring reusable bags with me to carry out of the store instead of plastic. I guess that's maybe not an American thing? I'm in Canada. We don't have plastic bags much anymore.
After a while you get a "feel" for what will felt. If I'm not sure, and it's inexpensive, I'll take a chance. I just purchased something that didn't felt well, I washed and cut it up anyway and will use it in some other sewing project. In the US each state decides on providing bags or bring your own. In NJ, where I am for the summer you have to, in PA you do not have to. I leave bags in the car and usually forget to bring them in! But I try. I recycle bags too! Regarding the sweaters and the idea of cutting or not. I personally don't wear wool, but I know some people still do. I think of a thrift shop as a recycling center, for me I'm turning one thing into another, in my case a piece of art or some other usable item. So, although it's not a sweater to wear it is still being used and kept out of the landfill and definitely bringing joy to someone. I am grateful for your questions and the very nice way you asked them! 💛💛💛
I went to two thrift stores last week and the only wool sweater I found was a cable knit cashmere blend, so I left it behind. Luckily I found cotton and denim for other projects, so not a wasted trip by a long shot. 🙂 And what a massive thrift store! I think all of the thrift stores in central WV would fit in there with plenty of room to spare. 😂
Help me out here because I’m genuinely interested… why do we want to felt the sweaters? I have some knowledge of wool, crocheting, knitting, and am genuinely interested in why one would want to change a sweater to be felted? I’ll watch the video and see what you are doing. Thanks!!
Basically the felting process tightens up the cloth so that when you cut it up the edges don’t fray. Thanks for asking, I’m sure someone else is wondering the same thing! 💜
Not only do we not have a store like that in Denver, but the cost for a sweater like that aqua one would have been 15 -20 bucks. Our small swift stores have increased their prices tremendously since the minimum wage went to 18 bucks/hr. Love the camaraderie and sense of humor between you 2.😂❤the material from the skirt is to die for🥰
WOW! That's a LOT and sounds crazy for a thrift store! We are lucky to live where we do. PA has lots of antiques and old things with character, a ton of flea markets and thrift shops. I have a bunch of thrift shops in NJ but it's much more expensive there as it's a tourist town. Thanks for watching, I'll tell Brian you enjoyed our goofing around! 💜💜💜
How many times did you have to put the sweaters through a wash cycle ?? Or maybe you dried them on high with tennis balls for more agitation? Thin sweaters respond to needle felting, but that takes time. Nice haul!
Oh thanks for that tip on needle felting the thin sweaters! Im going to try that, I have the needles! More fun! So I start by washing a bunch in one load, I do let them sit in the hot soapy water for a while, then agitate. If when I take them out, any of them didn't felt enough, I'll run them through again. Then I put them all in the dryer. You can overfelt them too so be careful of that and pick through them before you wash them again. Hope this helps! 💜
I'm hideously jealous of your store - size and prices. Here in Oregon wool sweaters are priced $14.99 and up, so the only hope is to find what's left at 50 or 75% off.
Also I felt fiber batts that I card from a mix of raw fibers and as long as the majority of the fiber is wool, additions of silk, nylon (such as firestar), angelina (sparkly stuff), angora or alpaca are fine. Never had trouble felting quality cashmere, but in the last 10-15 years it seems like there is a lower grade of cashmere that doesn't behave as well. Acrylic and polyester fibers even in small percentages are generally to be avoided.
We did this time! The most I spent yet, but Brian and I did buy a few things that we will wear. We love shopping the thrift stores for our clothes too. 💜💜💜
Well I wont beat this to death, but this store is so crazy big and the girls are in and out bringing stuff and re-hanging stuff that people just leave all over the place so they look at me for the hangers. Otherwise, I do bring them up to the front. If the store wasnt' so far from my house, I'd be volunteering there, I love them and they have gotten to know me and we have a great rapport. I hope that puts your mind to rest. I'm very respectful of other people, their time and energy. 💜 Thanks for watching, have a great day!
Aren't you the sweetest thing! I wash my face with some generic gentle skin cleanser, I don't wear makeup and I use Trader Joes moisturizer in the morning and at night. My mom always had beautiful skin and lived to 98! Oh and I do yoga every day. Arm and leg strengthening too, I have a thing, EDS and have to if I want to keep walking and using my arms. I talked about it in one of my videos. sending you big welcoming hugs! Glad you're here! 💜💜💜
@@JeriBellini thank you so much for taking your time and sharing what you do! And so sad the closest TJ is about 4 hours away! Of course it is! Lol! I wish you the very best in all
Fair warning, felting at home in your washing machine can ruin your machine... Katwise, felted sweater goddess, talks about it and I follow her advice about using laundromat machines instead at home
I did have that thought and wondered. I feel like I should just be doing it in my own washer. I'll check her out and see what she says though, if there's something I can do differently. I think I'm done for a little while now though. Thanks for the heads up! 💜💜💜
Please be kind and take all the empty hangers to the checkout rather than putting them empty back on rack. It shows respect and gives help to the workers there. Thank you.
Oh no worries about that, I'm always careful to help by folding my clothiing, tags out, and I do return the hangers to the racks that the workers use to restock. Taking them up front just means they have further to go to retrieve them. That is all done off camera. Thanks for watching! 💜
No worries. So have you ever washed a wool sweater in hot water by accident? It shrinks, like A LOT. WEll I do that on purpose using the WOOL sweaters I get at the thrift store. And then I make stitched art with them. Check out my etsy shop (my how to video will be up soon!) shopatthelittlehouse.etsy.com/listing/1802777241
I have an obsession with cordorouy and a healthy stash of colours and thicknesses. It's not the ideal stitching fabric, but have you done any projects using it? P.S. I'm in the mood to go thrifting...go figure!
@@lorrainesept-drayer4390 I have a corduroy stash too with intentions of using it in a unique quilt. Found a large scrap in a thrift store that has a paisley pattern on it and it's probably my favorite. 🙂
@moonlightcrafter6299 I have to admit that I haven't done muchch of anything with it yet. I decided that although I like heavier fabrics, as a quilt, it might be just too heavy for both sewing and laundering. I've been thinking that one of Jeri's circle or square projects might be a better idea to perhaps be used as a wall hanging or pieced bag. It's such a tactile fabric, and some of the colour variety might make an interesting appliqué pattern/design. I'm still mulling it over though, but would love to see your quilt when it's in progress!
Jeri! Do you want/like video idea suggestions? I have a billion buttons that I'd love to find creative uses for. If this is not appreciated, feel free to ignore. :)
I love video requests and I would also love ideas for larger buttons. Brian bought out some new old stock of vintage italian buttons. We’re always looking for ideas for them. The smaller buttons are easy. I’ll add it to my list! Thanks for watching! 💜
@@JeriBellini oh interesting! I also have huge buttons. I ended up with someone's button collection accidentally (don't ask haha). And I have no idea how to even start tackling it. I think a bunch of them are collectibles when I was just looking for some crafting buttons. 😳
These pure wool garments are the most healthiest garments to wear on your body : Your body is warm in them, your body breathes, they are from a natural source: These garments are worth more than gold. If this lady knew what she has in her hand, that is good for her health. Today it's difficult to purchase any garments that's pure wool. Synthetic garments are the norm, they can have a bad effect on your health. I would be treasuring them and wearing them. Anything pure wool is gold. Merino wool comes from the Australian sheep.
Hi, Thanks for talking about this. It's so true, synthetics are awful for your body. But unfortunately, so many people are allergic to wool. I wonder why that is? I personally LOVE wearing linen. Meanwhile I don't wear wool myself it does make me a bit sneezy, stitching on it doesn't bother me though. I think it has something to do with the friction against my body while wearing it. I'm so happy to be able to recycle it though, it's not a hot seller where I live so at least I'm giving it a home other than the landfill. So glad you brought this up! 💛💛💛
Wow - you hit a jackpot! I love wool for felting and linen. Great video.❤
I've been super lucky this year, Brian found a bunch at the flea market too. It makes me happy to recycle! 💛
Love the idea of felting wool skirts and suits. I had not considered that. You could make wonderfully sturdy bags without the need for interfacing.
Yes! Do you make bags? 💜
@@JeriBellini I'm a knitter, so I need project bags. But I could make purses and totes too.
I was happy to find your channel. I’m 76 and finding someone older who still has a zest for life makes me happy.
Oh I totally get that! Glad you’re here! 💜
Score!! you and Brian found such great pieces on your thrifting adventure. thanks for the tutorial about felting. very helpful. i would have been tempted to wear that fabulous woodland sweater that Brian found. so happy to see you back today Jeri! linda from california
I did NOT felt that one Linda! I might wear it a bit before I do anything. Thank you so much for connecting here with me! 💜
Wow, you got quite a lot! Awesome! I love your green and purple shirt. I'll have to start looking for wool at second hand stores. I want some merino wool socks.
I hope you find some wonderful wool! 😊💛
You two are so sweet and funny. Great video!
Thank you!! 😊 I'm glad you enjoyed the video! 💛
I absolutely LOVE cashmere for winter!! Its so wonderfully warm!! Keeps you warm in the coldest weather when youre outside walking or youre out in the pasture with the horses! You got a great find when you found that cashmere! No idea what this "felting" is that you just mentioned (??) but cashmere is great at the thrift! A real score there!! Way better than regular wool! Only at the 2:57 mark of the video...
I love the way cashmere feels too. I felt the wool and use it in my stitching projects. Check out my next video. 💜💜💜
Awesome haul!
I really enjoy going to the thrift shops, I love recycling! 💛
@@JeriBellini I love thrift stores!
Before watching your videos - I binge watched these past ones - I did not know I wanted so badly to felt sweaters and slow stitch them!!! Thank you for your awesome content. I hope you feel better soon. Sometimes our bodies have to scream so our minds listen that we need a break.
That shop is huge! If I lived near there, my entire house would be thrift-store furnished. Why buy new? The tip about taking a needle or pin with you, checking if fabric would sew easily is a really good one. I'll definitely try felting if I can find any pure new wool in our local charity shop. The men's section is always worth more of a browse than the women's. Too many 'fashion' sweaters in the women's, made for looks not warmth, all nasty acrylic. Thanks for the video, and I think every gal needs a Brian when she's searching for bargains!
My entire house IS furnished with used of one sort or another. It's my go to and I love the character of old things. And for sure Brian is a bargain hunter, he loves a deal! 🤣 💜💜💜
You two are so cute!!
I have to comment again, I’m loving this exchange between you and Brian, and it’s great to see him too 😘
I'm glad you did comment again! People always tell us they can see a "thing" with us. We can be quite the pair! 💜
@@JeriBellini definitely, the sparkle in both your eyes when you were chatting together was lovely to see.
I can't get over how big that store is! Wow!
It was a Kmart that went out of business. 💜💜💜
@@JeriBellini oh wow!
Always bring the hangers up to the front with you. You should never leave the empty hangers on the racks because that alerts to the staff that something has been shoplifted and also makes it difficult to manage the store's hangers
Someone else mentioned this, I do bring them up, unless they are restocking right next to me and want the hangers. I know it looked like I left them, because when I was showing the sweaters I took them off the hangers. I do edit out a lot of things on my video. I always try to do the right thing. I appreciate everything the volunteers do at the thrift store. I live a little too far to do it but it would be so fun to be a volunteer! 💜
Love your videos, Jeri! I found your channel by accident and I’m so glad I did! I’m trying to age gracefully/gratefully, too. You are such a blessing and an inspiration to me.
❤❤❤❤❤
Oh thanks Nancy! I'm glad you found me! 💜💜💜
Hi Happy Eyes RUclips friend Jeri! Love your creepy doll on the scales 🙂 I was cracking up laughing as I watched you touch all that wool and I am Sew Hot in the SW and with my own personal summer going all year long. x's lj
Hello sweet friend, I wondered if anyone would see the creepy baby! 😂
We had a great time! And I’m still having a great time cutting them up!
It’s been raining here and finally starting to cool off a little bit, might need to wear one of the sweaters soon! 😂 💜💜💜
Cashmere is goat hair and doesn’t felt because of that. Just as angora from rabbits wouldn’t felt because it’s also a hair. ❤
OHMYGOSH, that is good to know! See I'm always learning! I did get the hot pink one to shrink though but as a rule not great. Thank you!!! 💜
Thank you! I didn't know that.
But wool is sheep hair. Does felting have anything to do with the lanolin in wool? I don't have many wool clothes (outerwear only and one crepe suit) - too itchy.
I respectfully disagree. Cashmere, angora, and mohair absolutely WILL felt (full). Three things are needed most times to felt fibers: friction, heat, and soap. Be aware that on some fibers only friction is needed ( ex. Long haired cats, fine haired dogs & angora bunnies will matt [that’s felting]). (Some fibers are treated not to felt. They’re called “superwash” or “washable wool”. ) Your “fine” cashmere possibly didn’t felt well because thin, tightly spun yarn fibers cannot move freely in the process and the needed friction is limited. Cashmere is a very short fiber and must be tightly spun for strength. Tightly spun fibers don’t rub up against each other as a softly spun fiber yarn would but unless it is treated it should still felt. When fabric is hot shocking it quickly in cold water may facilitate felting (fulling). While wool is technically not hair, hair WILL felt. Dreadlocks anyone?
@@dhurd4099 well my pink cashmere sweater did felt. So I’m leaning towards your explanation.
I generally do the hand test, if it feels “full” I’ll give it a go when the price is right.
I did purchase a wool sweater that didn’t felt, it was not labeled superwash and it did not have anything on the label to indicate it wouldn’t felt. However it said Woolrich, I suspect that meant super washed.
And it just didn’t feel right but it was cheap so I gave it a try.
You must be willing to experiment! 💜
Wonderful video thank you for sharing it with me. You have a beautiful smile and I can see your eyes shine when speak about your sweater your going to felt. I’ve been away for a bit and just seeing your happiness makes me feel good.❤❤❤
Hi Sandra, Welcome back, I'm glad you're here! Thank you, 💜💜💜
Hi Jeri, you’re going to be so busy, thank you so much for taking us along with you. It was informative and fun to watch. I cant wait to see how you are going to use all that felt. Bella xx
Hi Bella, we had so much fun! I've got pieces of sweaters all over my room! Loving every minute of it. I'll be showing what I'm making soon. 💜💜💜
Great to see you again Jeri
Hi Anne! Great to see you too! 💜💜💜
Inspired and slightly in awe of your skills and shopping ability - I went to 6 charity shops (thrift store) in a little village called Thame in Oxford England. I found a couple of 100% Wool jumpers and they were £25. about $33 - each!!! So, I got some buttons and have asked my workmates if they have any - I will not be beaten - thanks for everything - I love your videos x
I’m sure someone will have something for you! Keep looking! 💜💜💜
Hi Kelly, I was thinking the same. Here in Melbourne a pure wool jumper is now considered a collectible, vintage fashion item that costs way more than a few years ago. I used to buy them, cut them into strips and make hooked rugs out of them. Now I couldn't afford to do that.
Wow the size of that store! Mine is smaller than just the book section of yours and our prices are at least double. Sometimes we get 50%off days but nothing ever under a dollar.
I'm hearing this over and over, I guess we better count our blessings and I also guess it's why our Etsy shops do well and we ship a lot to the west coast! 💜 Enjoy your weekend Dawn!
That's what I was thinking! Thrift store envy!
what a great place wish we had something like that here in the UK
I am SO BLESSED! 💜
What a fun trip! That is the nicest thrift store I've ever seen. Sadly, some in my area are nothing like this one. You made quite the haul and it was fun to see how excited you are with each piece.
I got lucky! I’m usually never that lucky. 💜💜💜
You and Brian are adorable!! Hubby and I thrift weekly and I'm always looking for wool. Never thought of coats and skirts - thanks for that!! I've felted a lot but I'd love to see more ideas of what to do with the felt. Also, thanks for the tip about cashmere. Mine hasn't felted too well either and I never thought about the fact that the yarn is so thin. Makes sense! I figure I can use it for needle felting. Great job on all your videos and thanks!!
You are so welcome! And I'll be posting some ideas, so stay tuned. I've been stitching up a storm! 💜
Shopping is such fun, thanks for sharing your tips on felting wool. I’m heading to Northern MN next month and will have to shop a few thrift stores along the way. Have an amazing weekend. 🌻
That would be the place to find wool sweaters, it's colder up there! Thanks for watching! 💜💜💜
That was so fun, Jeri! Sure wish I lived near to that thrift store…it was huge! I am learning so much from your videos.
Oh I'm glad, and I wish you lived close to me too! 💜💜💜
That’s a great haul. I find it hard to find woollen jumpers here in Western Australia, maybe because it’s mostly hot and winter is mild. Love the colours you found too. Thank you for your video, I love watching what you are up to.
Yes, I imagine no one wears those in the hotter climates so it makes sense you won't see them. 😥 for you! 💜 I love being able to see what other people have in parts of the world that I know I'll never see. Thank you for hanging out with me! 💜
Thanks so much for all this information. Wish I could go that store!
Me too! We could meet up! 💜
I subscribed because I can hardly wait to see those felted wool projects. I bet they will be great! Brava to you for thrifting and NOT at Goodwill. (Lila was my mom's name!)
Welcome Lila, our Lilah is with an H... such a pretty name! I'll be sharing them soon! 💜
Am so happy your vid came up in my suggestions...new subscriber!🎉 You remind me of my Sis, so creative! She and I would love to come up with artful projects. She wouldve loved what you do, as well!
Welcome!! I'm so so glad you found me!!! Sending you hugs! 💜💜💜
@@JeriBellini thank you! Hugs back❤️
I wished we had stores where I live. I could get lost there😮. I used to do felting and I enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing your video. I hope you found lots of sweaters.
I totally DID! What a blast I"ve been having. I'll do some show and tells! 💜
Fabulous video! Good job! I went on the hunt for wool here in Arizona… not much luck, BUT I did find lots of linen! 😍
Thats great too, and think about dying it! 💜
@@JeriBelliniooohhhh hadn’t thought about that! We’ll see… I can be a bit of a mess with things like that. 🙃
Thank you for your inspiration and support. Sherry Conte from Central Florida.
Hi Sherry! Thanks for watching and I can't wait to see your videos when you start your channel! 💜💜💜
What a great thrifting trip! You found so many beautiful sweaters. What do you use the felted wool for?
I make wall art mostly but you can use it in so many sewing projects. Check out some of my videos. I’ll be making more in the new few weeks. 💜
Beautiful treasures and you know my attraction to Lady Bugs. Love your jeep!! Quote: “Kindness is the art of creating masterpieces in the hearts of others.” - Unknown. Huge HUGS and kind thoughts. Namaste 🐞🐞🐞
Thanks Lala! Good to see you! 💜💜💜
That thrift store is huge. I learned a lot from your shopping trip. Thank you. I’ve missed seeing you. So happy to see you back. Alex Anderson from The Quilt Show is doing circles now because she saw yours and with Sue Spargo’s stitching it’s an other rabbit hole 😂 Can’t tell you how much I enjoy you.
I saw that! Dots are addictive! 💜💜💜
oooooo, I love what you are doing with the recycled sweaters. Did I hear you say that you might be making and selling some of the wool in bundles? If so, I am interested. I didn't see any in your shop, so I may have mis-heard you. I'm in California and we don't have the cold winters that you have back east. Wool sweaters are few and far between. Thanks Jeri! KimE
Yes, I already made a few kits for a project. I'm working on a video to go along wiht it now. There's a link in the box below, that takes you to my shop. ShopAtTheLittleHouse on Etsy. 💜
@@JeriBellini Thank you Jeri. Rather than a kit, I was thinking more of a bundle of various wool pieces like a charm pack or layer cake. I’ll keep my eye on your shop in case you decide to put any of these together. Thank you again. I love what you are creating. Also, the video of you and Brian in that gigantic thrift store was hilarious! xxoo
Wow! That would take all day to go through!!!!
We never do the entire store at one visit, I couldn't walk around that long! 💜💜💜
Holey Moley! I have never seen such a big thrift store!!!
YES! I'm a lucky girl! 💜💜💜
That looked so much fun and the store was huge with so much stuff in it😳 The prices were really cheap compared with UK prices. In Uk you would pay £8 for a man’s shirt £15 for a jacket at least. A wool jacket would be more like £25.
Isn't it crazy how pices vary so much. I'm so glad I can pick things up for a reasonable price, otherwise I would never be able to make the kits for you guys and I love doing that! 💛
The size of that store blows me away. There really is very little reason to buy new. There is already so much stuff in this world. Came here to say that cashmere typically does not felt because it is hair not wool but I noticed others have already said that. You had some fantastic finds there. Thank you for sharing, you are such fun to watch.
I’ve had luck with thicker sweaters, the thin cashmere not so much. Thanks for watching! 💜
I got the most gorgeous lavender angora sweater one Christmas when I was in high school. Back then - late 50s, early 60s, it seemed that it did not matter how big you were, you wore a size 40. It was lovely even though it swam on me! One day, I had washed it and had it spread out to dry. My oh-so-have-to-have-things- nice mother had company and put all of the clothes in the family room in the washer just to get them out of the way and didn't pull my sweater out of the mix. A 3 year old might have been small enough for it. It had been so amazing to wear - soft and draped wonderfully, until it did not. I kept it for a while but it made me depressed to see it so I donated it. Back then, it seemed that shrinking was the norm, not the exception!
YES, and back in the day so much was shrinkable! I have memories of that happening to me too! 💜
Such a great haul! ❤
Seriously! Thanks for watching Steph! 💜💜💜
Wow just loved your video have nothing like that store in Australia we do have second hand shops but can be expensive, how do you felt the wool jumpers?
I did a video on that... ruclips.net/video/dVLRjYW8x8M/видео.html 💛
Great video x
Thank you!! 💜💜💜
Wow, that shop is enormous! We don't have anything that large in New Zealand. I found it interesting what you were saying about Merino wool. I have some jumpers (sweaters) that are thin now. I was going to ask you if they would be good to felt, but you answered my question at the beginning of the video ☺️ Thanks so much for sharing. I really enjoyed it
Hi Karen, I suppose if you were totally done wearing it, you could try but I don't think it would do too much. I have had a few sweaters that I just keep washing and tumbling dry and very slowly they get thicker. Thanks for commenting! 💜💜💜
You really hit the jackpot, Ive never been so lucky! Where are you in PA? I'm in south central. Felting thrift store sweaters is my favorite, I make upcycled bags and purses...
Near Pottstown. We went last Wednesday, not ONE SINGLE sweater to be found! 💛
@@JeriBelliniit pays to go often, but I dont often get to! I just realized I turned 55 LAST year and therefore missed out on the sr discount for a who year! (I thought I as turning 55 this year 12/26)
Omg. What a big shop. We don't have this size shops in the Netherlands. 👍🧡💐
Most of the thrift shops here aren't this big, this one was a department store that went out of business and it's our favorite. I'll have to bring you along to some of the others that we go to. 💜
This got me thinking,i wonder if crochet would felt, i was gifted yarn thats pure wool but quite rough so i dont want to work it up into clothing or blankets ,but wondering if i worked it up and felted it,if it would work, hmmmmm i feel a experiment coming on lol ive never felted so will be interesting.
It SURE would! I made all these ear warmers with a "Lambs Pride" wool yarn years ago. They are now amazing felted bits of wonderfulness! I did have to wash them a few times... Look for wool scarves too at the thrift store. I'll post a pic on my community page, do you know how to get to that? Go to my Home Page and look for the word "Community". I've already cut some into circles for the next project! 💜💜💜
Love the idea of satiating my love of wool with making felting wool items - can't wear it easily, sadly.
I can’t wear it either, but love stitching with it! 💜
Wow! Your prices at the thrift store are so much better than ours! I live in Eastern Canada and a wool sweater here at our thrift stores range from $12-$15 each! I’m so jealous!
oh my gosh, how do they consider that thrifting!??! That's just crazy! 💛
I love how Brian and you have a laugh about things - Ian and I do that too. I told him once that one of the reasons I married him was his sense of humour! And what a great haul of knitwear!! 💕😊
Brian and I always have fun when we're out and we seem to make people smile, like that guy in the blue shirt if you saw him... I only noticed him when I was editing and it made me laugh! We had all the check-out ladies laughing too! We're lucky girls. And YES! I got some amazing sweaters! 💜💜💜
Hi Jeri, I’m also in PA. Where is this thrift store? I would love to visit it. Your videos are always so enjoyable and informative. It was nice to see Brian. You always mention him but I’ve never been able to put a face to the name.
There's a link below, Liberty Thrift. The one I go to is in Sanatoga, PA Do you think you are anywhere near there?
@@JeriBellini , I know where Sanatoga is. I live in Southern Chester County.
You and Brian are so cute together. Loved your trip to the thrift store. You should consider checking out Catbird Quilts (if you haven’t already). She shops at thrift stores for men’s shirts and makes quilts from them. Can’t wait to start felting. Thanks, as always!
I’ll check her out now! Thank you, and I’ll pass that complicating to Brian!
💜💜💜
Sounds like you had a crazy good time felting sweaters.
I did! And still having at it now, cutting them all up! 💜💜💜
Great video. Would like to see more about how you choose sweaters with no labels. Also, is there any thinking around using up perfectly good sweaters to cut up? I try and find sweaters I don't think will be worn again... they have holes/stains, etc. Just wondering, not a judgment at all. Finally, I always bring reusable bags with me to carry out of the store instead of plastic. I guess that's maybe not an American thing? I'm in Canada. We don't have plastic bags much anymore.
After a while you get a "feel" for what will felt. If I'm not sure, and it's inexpensive, I'll take a chance. I just purchased something that didn't felt well, I washed and cut it up anyway and will use it in some other sewing project.
In the US each state decides on providing bags or bring your own. In NJ, where I am for the summer you have to, in PA you do not have to. I leave bags in the car and usually forget to bring them in! But I try. I recycle bags too!
Regarding the sweaters and the idea of cutting or not. I personally don't wear wool, but I know some people still do. I think of a thrift shop as a recycling center, for me I'm turning one thing into another, in my case a piece of art or some other usable item. So, although it's not a sweater to wear it is still being used and kept out of the landfill and definitely bringing joy to someone.
I am grateful for your questions and the very nice way you asked them! 💛💛💛
@@JeriBellini thank you for responding. I really enjoy watching your videos.
I went to two thrift stores last week and the only wool sweater I found was a cable knit cashmere blend, so I left it behind. Luckily I found cotton and denim for other projects, so not a wasted trip by a long shot. 🙂
And what a massive thrift store! I think all of the thrift stores in central WV would fit in there with plenty of room to spare. 😂
Ha!
I’m glad you found something even if it wasn’t wool. 💜💜💜
Help me out here because I’m genuinely interested… why do we want to felt the sweaters?
I have some knowledge of wool, crocheting, knitting, and am genuinely interested in why one would want to change a sweater to be felted?
I’ll watch the video and see what you are doing. Thanks!!
Basically the felting process tightens up the cloth so that when you cut it up the edges don’t fray.
Thanks for asking, I’m sure someone else is wondering the same thing!
💜
What an incredible thrift store. 🇨🇦
I KNOW! 💜💜💜
what a great thrift store!
Right?!?!?! 🥰
Not only do we not have a store like that in Denver, but the cost for a sweater like that aqua one would have been 15 -20 bucks. Our small swift stores have increased their prices tremendously since the minimum wage went to 18 bucks/hr. Love the camaraderie and sense of humor between you 2.😂❤the material from the skirt is to die for🥰
WOW! That's a LOT and sounds crazy for a thrift store! We are lucky to live where we do. PA has lots of antiques and old things with character, a ton of flea markets and thrift shops. I have a bunch of thrift shops in NJ but it's much more expensive there as it's a tourist town. Thanks for watching, I'll tell Brian you enjoyed our goofing around! 💜💜💜
You have amazing charity shop. There is nothing like this in the UK 😮
I know! And now hearing it from everyone, I feel extremely fortunate! 💜💜🥰
Some cashmere is made with plant material 🧠🤯 keep Rocking 🤙 the good creative & thrift stuff 👍 Beautiful People 🤗 been knowledgeable & fun 🏵️🌳🍂🗽🇺🇲🦅🌧️
I found one that said Cotton cashmere! I did not get that one. Thanks for watching! 💜
Wow what a haul. Nothing like that here though, I’m lucky if I find one jumper per season, what ya get for living in Sunny Queensland I spose.
Yes! it's all about where you live! Thanks for watching! 💜
Oh my goodness the size of that place!!
i KNOW! It's the best place I've ever been to! 💜💜💜
My goodness me the thrift shop is huge, you could take packed lunch and spend the day there. The one I go to is the size of grandmas parlour 😂😂
Hi Susan, Yes, it is in an old KMart Store that went under. That would be fun to picnic in it! 🤣 💜
Where is the thrift store where you were shopping? I live in NJ. Also, those tin boxes you showed were for storing film slides.
It’s called Liberty Thrift, there’s a link below. This one is in Sanatoga, PA.
How many times did you have to put the sweaters through a wash cycle ?? Or maybe you dried them on high with tennis balls for more agitation? Thin sweaters respond to needle felting, but that takes time. Nice haul!
Oh thanks for that tip on needle felting the thin sweaters! Im going to try that, I have the needles! More fun!
So I start by washing a bunch in one load, I do let them sit in the hot soapy water for a while, then agitate. If when I take them out, any of them didn't felt enough, I'll run them through again. Then I put them all in the dryer. You can overfelt them too so be careful of that and pick through them before you wash them again. Hope this helps! 💜
Wool sweaters (Jumpers) are hard to find in the NE of England, no one seems to wear them, or discard them 🙁
Oh too bad! Keep your eye out for wool hats and scarves too. 💜💜💜 I just felted some wool ear warmers and they came out GREAT!
The metal boxes were used to store photo slides.
Yes, someone else mentioned that. I love boxes of any kind! 💜
I'm hideously jealous of your store - size and prices. Here in Oregon wool sweaters are priced $14.99 and up, so the only hope is to find what's left at 50 or 75% off.
Also I felt fiber batts that I card from a mix of raw fibers and as long as the majority of the fiber is wool, additions of silk, nylon (such as firestar), angelina (sparkly stuff), angora or alpaca are fine. Never had trouble felting quality cashmere, but in the last 10-15 years it seems like there is a lower grade of cashmere that doesn't behave as well. Acrylic and polyester fibers even in small percentages are generally to be avoided.
Keep looking! I find you have to go regularly to score those deals. 💜💜💜
How do you make sure items are pest free?
I wash them in HOT HOT water, and then dry in the hot dryer, if there was anything in there, it would be gone! 💜💜💜
Your thrift store is HUGE! They’re talking about making charity megastores here in the UK and I think that they’ll look something like that….😮
OH I hope they do that for you! They are a great way to recycle, and the prices are so good compared to buying new. 💜
😊This video was so informative and fun. You must have a big bill at checkout. Thanks.
We did this time! The most I spent yet, but Brian and I did buy a few things that we will wear. We love shopping the thrift stores for our clothes too. 💜💜💜
I always take my hangers to the counter I never leave it for the employees to remove them from the racks SMH 😮
Well I wont beat this to death, but this store is so crazy big and the girls are in and out bringing stuff and re-hanging stuff that people just leave all over the place so they look at me for the hangers. Otherwise, I do bring them up to the front. If the store wasnt' so far from my house, I'd be volunteering there, I love them and they have gotten to know me and we have a great rapport. I hope that puts your mind to rest. I'm very respectful of other people, their time and energy. 💜 Thanks for watching, have a great day!
I hope you house in Florida is ok
My tiny house is in Cape May in NJ so we’re fine up north, just having lots of rain lately. I hope all my FL friends are ok.
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I need to book a holiday at that thrift store, it is H.U.G.E !
Hahahahhaaa, YES it would be a great trip, there's a few right in that area, that's the biggest one. 💜
Your skin is beautiful, your face and arms. What is your skin care and makeup you use?(No joke!) Would love to know!
Aren't you the sweetest thing! I wash my face with some generic gentle skin cleanser, I don't wear makeup and I use Trader Joes moisturizer in the morning and at night. My mom always had beautiful skin and lived to 98! Oh and I do yoga every day. Arm and leg strengthening too, I have a thing, EDS and have to if I want to keep walking and using my arms. I talked about it in one of my videos. sending you big welcoming hugs! Glad you're here! 💜💜💜
@@JeriBellini thank you so much for taking your time and sharing what you do! And so sad the closest TJ is about 4 hours away! Of course it is! Lol! I wish you the very best in all
Fair warning, felting at home in your washing machine can ruin your machine... Katwise, felted sweater goddess, talks about it and I follow her advice about using laundromat machines instead at home
I did have that thought and wondered. I feel like I should just be doing it in my own washer. I'll check her out and see what she says though, if there's something I can do differently. I think I'm done for a little while now though. Thanks for the heads up! 💜💜💜
Oh my GOODNESS that place is bigger than my Sam's Club
Hey Ruthie, it was an old Kmart! 💜💜💜
@@JeriBellini It is an awesome place. Lucky You
Please be kind and take all the empty hangers to the checkout rather than putting them empty back on rack. It shows respect and gives help to the workers there. Thank you.
Oh no worries about that, I'm always careful to help by folding my clothiing, tags out, and I do return the hangers to the racks that the workers use to restock. Taking them up front just means they have further to go to retrieve them. That is all done off camera. Thanks for watching! 💜
pls excuse my ignorance but what does felt mean
No worries. So have you ever washed a wool sweater in hot water by accident? It shrinks, like A LOT. WEll I do that on purpose using the WOOL sweaters I get at the thrift store. And then I make stitched art with them. Check out my etsy shop (my how to video will be up soon!) shopatthelittlehouse.etsy.com/listing/1802777241
I have an obsession with cordorouy and a healthy stash of colours and thicknesses. It's not the ideal stitching fabric, but have you done any projects using it? P.S. I'm in the mood to go thrifting...go figure!
Oh NO! Send me pics of what you’ve done… my email is below. Another obsession! Yikes! 💜
@@lorrainesept-drayer4390 I have a corduroy stash too with intentions of using it in a unique quilt. Found a large scrap in a thrift store that has a paisley pattern on it and it's probably my favorite. 🙂
@moonlightcrafter6299 I have to admit that I haven't done muchch of anything with it yet. I decided that although I like heavier fabrics, as a quilt, it might be just too heavy for both sewing and laundering. I've been thinking that one of Jeri's circle or square projects might be a better idea to perhaps be used as a wall hanging or pieced bag. It's such a tactile fabric, and some of the colour variety might make an interesting appliqué pattern/design. I'm still mulling it over though, but would love to see your quilt when it's in progress!
Jeri! Do you want/like video idea suggestions? I have a billion buttons that I'd love to find creative uses for. If this is not appreciated, feel free to ignore. :)
I love video requests and I would also love ideas for larger buttons. Brian bought out some new old stock of vintage italian buttons. We’re always looking for ideas for them. The smaller buttons are easy. I’ll add it to my list!
Thanks for watching! 💜
@@JeriBellini oh interesting! I also have huge buttons. I ended up with someone's button collection accidentally (don't ask haha). And I have no idea how to even start tackling it. I think a bunch of them are collectibles when I was just looking for some crafting buttons. 😳
These pure wool garments are the most healthiest garments to wear on your body :
Your body is warm in them, your body breathes, they are from a natural source:
These garments are worth more than gold. If this lady knew what she has in her hand, that is good for her health.
Today it's difficult to purchase any garments that's pure wool. Synthetic garments are the norm, they can have a bad effect on your health.
I would be treasuring them and wearing them.
Anything pure wool is gold.
Merino wool comes from the Australian sheep.
Hi, Thanks for talking about this. It's so true, synthetics are awful for your body. But unfortunately, so many people are allergic to wool. I wonder why that is? I personally LOVE wearing linen. Meanwhile I don't wear wool myself it does make me a bit sneezy, stitching on it doesn't bother me though. I think it has something to do with the friction against my body while wearing it.
I'm so happy to be able to recycle it though, it's not a hot seller where I live so at least I'm giving it a home other than the landfill. So glad you brought this up! 💛💛💛