A Simple Quantitative Test for the Felting of Wool Top

A simple, rapid procedure for evaluating the feltability of wool in the form of top is pre sented. The method consists of subjecting a sliver to controlled wet mechanical action, and measuring its change in length. It yields results which correlate well with the shrinkage during laundering of garments made from the top; the method thus provides a useful tool for con trolling the application of some chemical shrink-resistant treatments in the mill. In addition, this method shows promise of usefulness as a tool for investigating the nature of felting.