Wool Felted Purse / Tote – Handmade, Unique, and Thoughtfully Designed

This handmade wool felted purse or tote is a distinctive and durable accessory, carefully crafted through a detailed felting and shaping process. Each bag was originally designed by artisan Jackie Hansen and is entirely one-of-a-kind. Every piece is hand-knitted using 100% wool yarn, then machine-felted in very hot water to create a thick, structured textile. Once felted, the bag is shaped and blocked, resulting in a durable form that maintains its shape with continued use.

Due to the nature of felted wool, the purse becomes water-sensitive after drying. While it should not be immersed in water, it can be maintained with gentle care. A lint roller is ideal for removing dust, fibers, or debris from the surface. For minor spot cleaning, the surface may be lightly wiped with a slightly damp cloth—always taking care not to over-moisten the material.

Each purse is fully lined with pre-washed cotton or silk, providing a clean and smooth interior. Inside the base of the purse is a removable foam core panel, reinforced with Plexiglas to add structure and prevent sagging. Magnetic snap closures ensure secure opening and closing, and purse feet are attached to protect the bottom from wear when placed on surfaces.

When storing the bag, reposition the internal base by shifting it sideways and lay the purse on its side to preserve its structure. Before reuse, simply push the base flat again, adjust the interior lining, and gently fluff any exterior embellishments such as ribbons or eyelash yarns. The wool used is labeled as moth-proofed, but it is advisable to store the purse with a few mothballs in a sealed pouch or container for additional protection.

Handle styles vary by design. Some hand-carry models use classic wooden or polyester handles, while more recent designs feature metal handles adorned with a variety of decorative beads. Certain beads may be glass-like in appearance, though they are placed in such a way that non-breakable beads come into contact with surfaces first. Should any bead need replacement, the metal handles can be detached from their rings to allow for adjustments or repairs.

Shoulder bags are equipped with leather straps for comfort and durability. Some include a decorative section of solid stone beads that are highly resistant to breakage, providing both visual interest and long-term resilience.

Each wool felted purse or tote is individually made with careful attention to quality, function, and aesthetics. The result is a thoughtfully designed, artistically inspired piece that combines traditional textile craftsmanship with practical modern use.