A small kit using 100% felted wool should be affordable, or they are at the shop where I work. This way you are only paying for the wools used in the kit. As a wool dyer, both for myself and the shop mentioned, I completely understand your feelings about the wool felt. It's just not the same in looks or feel when using. Try a kit to see if you like working with wools. If you do, then just remember: you are worth a little extra to make yourself happy. Enjoy!!