Inspired by Nature - The Teasel Gig
4 August 2020
,Many industrial processes are inspired by nature, and can be seen as a mechanised extension of a traditional hand process using tools from the natural world. The Teasel Gig is one such invention. Here's a little about this extraordinary machine which is a mixture of the natural and man made.
Teasels were traditionally used to ‘comb’ the surface of damp woollen cloth by hand to

Teasel Gig
make it soft and fluffy. This process is called ‘raising the nap’.
The Teasel Gig machine was invented to make this process faster and more efficient. The teasel gig contains 3000 prickly teasels in an iron frame and is powered by electricity. The cloth is passed over the teasels, giving it a more even, fluffy finish.
The Teasel Gig is a curious mix of the natural and man-made. It combined the hand processes of the past with precision engineering – the future of the textile industry
Teasel Gig with Teasels at The National Wool Museum, Drefach Felindre
Comments - (2)
Dear Valerie Belsey,
Thank you for getting in touch with us. I have passed your enquiry to my colleagues at the National Wool Museum, they will hopefully be able to advise further.
Many thanks,
Nia
(Digital Team)