Wool dreads have rapidly gained popularity in recent years as a fabulous alternative to traditional dreadlocks. Made from soft, natural fibers, wool dreads are comfortable, lightweight, and versatile. They can be easily installed and removed without damaging your hair or requiring much maintenance. In this article, we’ll guide you through some simple ways to make your very own wool dreads.

1. Gather Your Supplies:

To make wool dreads, you’ll need the following supplies:

– 100% wool roving (available in various colors at craft stores or online)

– A felting needle

– A foam felting pad

– Scissors

– A measuring tape

– A spray bottle filled with warm water, a bit of natural soap or fabric softener

2. Prepare the Wool Roving:

Start by cutting the wool roving into lengths that correspond to your desired dreadlock length. You may want to measure your hair and add a couple of inches for any possible shrinkage during the felting process.

3. Start Wet Felting:

Wet felting is the first technique we’ll explore for making wool dreads.
Lay a strand of wool onto the foam pad and spray it with your warm soapy water mixture until it’s thoroughly damp. Make sure not to oversaturate it. Gently begin rolling the damp wool between your palms in a back-and-forth motion while applying even pressure.

As you roll, you will notice that the fibers start to fuse together, creating a matted appearance and forming a dreadlock-like shape. Keep rolling until you’re satisfied with the thickness and shape of the dread.
Rinse the dread under cold water to remove any residual soap, gently squeeze out excess water, and allow it to air-dry on a clean towel.

4. Needle Felting Technique:

For those who prefer dry felting over wet felting, needle felting presents another option for making wool dreads.
Place a length of wool roving on the foam pad and start piercing it with the felting needle in an up-and-down motion. The barbs on the needle tangling the wool fibers together, forming a more compact dread-like shape.

Focus on one area at a time to ensure even thickness across the entire length of the dread. Once you’re satisfied with the texture and shape, trim any stray fibers to give it a neat appearance.

5. Attach the Wool Dreads:

You can install your newly-made wool dreads using various methods like braiding, crochet hooking, or thread wrapping. Choose the attachment method that feels most comfortable and secure for you.

And there you have it—simple ways to make your own wool dreads! With practice and creativity, you can create an array of eye-catching and stylish dreads to express yourself. Happy felting!