Introduction: Felted Shoelaces
I saw some cool knit shoelaces online and thought it was a cool idea. However, most of them were all curly and twisty. I wanted some that were straighter and smoother, so I opted to felt some instead.
Step 1: Chain Stitch
Crochet a chain long enough for your shoes. I used this site to determine an appropriate length, though you could also measure the laces that you're replacing.
If you don't know how to chain stitch, I have an instructable for that. It's super easy and quick once you get the hang of it.
Step 2: Felting Part 1
Fill your sink with a few inches of the hottest water that will come from your tap. I recommend using gloves to protect your hands from the heat.
Wet the chain and apply some dish soap.
Step 3: Agitate
Roll the chain around in your hands with plenty of soap and water. Occasionally re-wet the lace and apply more soap as needed. Continue to do this until you can't see the stitches in the laces.
Step 4: Rinse
Rinse and squeeze until there is no more soap in the lace.
Step 5: Roll
Roll the lace a bit at a time like you're rolling out a clay snake. This will make stray fibers cling to the lace and make it more smooth and uniform.
Step 6: Clip
You'll see the thickness taper off at the ends to where there was only one strand of yarn. Cut off the excess at the end of the laces about a half inch from where the stitches start. Leaving a half inch of single strand will allow you to easily thread the laces into your shoes eyelets.
Step 7: Stroll
Lace up and take your new refashioned shoes out for a stroll!

Runner Up in the
Feet Challenge

Participated in the
Outside Contest

Participated in the
Summer Fun Contest
9 Comments
6 years ago on Introduction
I just posted your photo and this write-up on my blog - thanks for the brilliant solution to the need for funky shoelaces! -
http://simpleshoemaking.com/wp/felted-shoelaces-by-brooklyntonia/
I've seen a lot of felt shoelaces,
they're always made from wool roving that is wet with soapy water, then
rolled like you're making a snake out of play-dough until they get long
and skinny. They're usually lumpy and irregular, at least when I've
tried to make them. So the brilliance of chain-stitching, then felting
wool yarn - with the same soapy water - No lumps! And so many color
possibilities - they could even be multi-colored..make some for your
shoes in need of a creative touch!
Reply 6 years ago on Introduction
Great! Thanks!
6 years ago
I've never heard of this before. I'm glad I ran across it. Very good 'ible. Good way to transform simple yarn into usable cord.
6 years ago on Introduction
I love the black boot with golden shoestrings! Looks great!
6 years ago
Cool got my vote
6 years ago on Introduction
Very cool!
Some clear heat shrink tubing would be perfect to finish off those lace ends. I've repaired many fraying shoelaces with it - works great!
Reply 6 years ago on Introduction
That's a fantastic idea! They really didn't need a finished end because the felting makes it easy to lace them up, but it would definitely work and add a bit of detail if you used a colored piece.
6 years ago on Introduction
Sort of like dreadlocks for your boots.
Reply 6 years ago on Introduction
Absolutely!