What a horrible experience you had and I am so glad you shared it with all of us. I just ordered 100% wool yarn to make a felted shawl. The author of the book says to wash it in the washer after first basting all the edges together and then put it in the dryer. She tells us to check the wool several times as we need to check the degree of felting. I have never done this before but I am wanting to try. One of the quilt guild members took a blazer a client had and she wanted it made it into a purse. It turned out absolutely beautiful, she also added some beading to the front of the purse. I am going to crochet a shawl, deep purple, and I will remember what happened to you. Thanks again.