Here are some tips on how to felt your knit projects on the stovetop instead of using a washing machine. This is especially helpful if you have a front-load washer since they often do not create enough agitation.

In this example I am felting a knitting project called Gnome Home by Tiny Owl Knits. These are cute felted point protectors for your double-point needles or circular needles. They also make great stocking stuffers! 

How I made my Gnome Home pattern:

1. I used #8s and cast on 14 stitches, knit 3 rounds in ribbing, decreased 2 stitches and knit 12 rounds of stockinette in my dark color, 10 rounds in white (for my face). Knit 1 round in dark brown, 3 purl rounds in dark brown (for my hat brim), knit 1 round using back purl bump 3 rounds below in order to make a nice brim for my hat. Knit 4 rounds in stockinette then began decreases by (K1, SSK, K2tog, K1). Repeat one more time on back side of hat. This made them too loose for my double pointed needles.
2. Start bottom of circular Gnome sock as described: Using US #8s, cast on 8 stitches and decreased 2 stitches on the first round. I knit 12 rounds with my dark color then changed to my white face color for 10 rounds. I changed to my brown color and knit 1 round then purled 3 rounds. Then I knit 1 round connecting the purl round 3 rounds below. Knit 6 rounds even. Then (K1, K2tog) repeat once more. Knit 4 rounds even. K2tog 2 times. Pull tail through remaining stitches and weave in ends. Decorate face as desired and felt on stove top lightly as desired.
3. I have a front loading washing machine so I used my stove top with hot water and soap in a medium sized pan and used my fingers to rub the fibers and cause felting to occur. Once my little gnomes were felted to my liking, I rinsed the soap out and put them on my needles to dry.

Supplies needed for project

Pattern:  Gnome Homes by Tiny Owl Knits

Yarn:  Ultra Alpaca Light  in your choice of colors (I used colors in my stash)

Knitting Needles:  Knitters Pride Dreamz US #8s  or in size needed to maintain a loose fabric for felting. You can use DPNs or circulars with the Magic Loop method.

Tapestry needle:  Chibi darning needles for weaving in ends

How to Felt on the Stovetop