History
Fur felt is a noble material made from fine animal hair, primarily rabbit—formerly beaver. It is not a woven fabric, but a pressed cloth, created by the natural interlacing of the fibers under the effect of humidity, heat, and friction. Before shaping, the hair is carefully cleaned, combed, sometimes dyed, and then subjected to a fulling process. It is during this stage that the microscopic scales of the fibers interlock and form a surface that is both supple and dense.
Depending on the treatments applied, fur felt can offer supple, soft, or firm, structured finishes—a versatility that makes it a must-have for exceptional headwear. Entirely biodegradable, this precious material is part of an eco-responsible approach without compromising on elegance.
The Origins
Felt is one of humanity's oldest textiles and is a millennia-old art. Traces of pressed felt have been found in the Bayingolin Autonomous Region of China, dating back to 1800 BC, and also in Northern Europe, in megalithic tombs in Denmark and Germany. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans already used felt to protect themselves from the cold.
The true masters of this craft, however, were the nomadic peoples of Mongolia and Tibet, who used felt for their clothing and also to build the famous yurts. Although the tools have evolved, the ancestral technique remains unchanged—a reflection of timeless know-how passed down from generation to generation.
Properties
A textile with remarkable qualities
Fur felt has exceptional thermal performance: it insulates against both cold and heat, dampens noise, absorbs moisture, protects against dirt, and resists deformation. It has a soft feel, a naturally stretchy structure, and returns to its original shape after pressure—a major advantage for travel headwear.
Superior quality & exceptional craftsmanship
Finer and silkier than wool felt, fur felt is an exceptional material. Its smooth surface, subtle sheen, incomparable suppleness, and natural strength make it a preferred material for high-end creations. Easy to cut, dye, or sculpt, it lends itself to the most daring pieces—hats, sun hats, jewelry, but also interior accessories or artistic pieces.
Compared to wool felt, which is often used for more accessible creations, fur felt stands out for the finesse of its fibers and the complexity of its craftsmanship. An elegance that must be earned—and felt.
Care instructions
A simple, gentle brushing or a slightly damp cloth is enough to remove dust. For a deeper clean, hand wash with a mild shampoo, followed by a thorough rinse. After drying flat, you can reshape the felt with a light burst of steam.
Conclusion
Both refined and functional, fur felt embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Its unparalleled quality, durability, and versatility place it at the heart of the most demanding contemporary creations.
From prestigious hats to collector's items, fur felt is not just a material: it's a signature.
