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Design and Product Development

Dryer Balls As A Sustainable Product Option For Coarse Wool

Authors
  • Jennifer Harmon (University of Wyoming)
  • MD Imranul Islam (University of Wyoming)
  • Solaiman Bin Ali

Abstract

This study investigates the repurposing of waste wool, a byproduct of sheep farming typically unsuitable for textile applications, into dryer ball prototypes. Wool, a keratin-based protein fiber with unique structural properties, has declined to 1.1% of the global fiber market due to competition from synthetic fibers. Using wet felting techniques, the researchers developed four dryer ball prototypes—natural, single-color, multicolor, and sheep-icon designs—which were marketed via Etsy.com through a junior level Visual Merchandising and Promotion course at a large Western University. The multicolor variety demonstrated the highest consumer demand, selling out of inventory first. However, challenges such as inconsistent dyeing, difficulties in applying heat-transferred designs, and the labor-intensive production process, requiring 45 minutes per unit, constrained scalability. Despite these limitations, the project underscores the potential of waste wool as a sustainable resource for niche products and highlights the need for further research to improve efficiency in production processes.

Keywords: Wool, Felting, Sustainability, Dryer Balls, Experiential Learning

How to Cite:

Harmon, J., Islam, M. & Ali, S. B., (2025) “Dryer Balls As A Sustainable Product Option For Coarse Wool”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18649

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Published on
2025-01-15

Peer Reviewed