Fuller

About the Fuller Profession

The role of a fuller was integral to the textile industry, particularly in the processing of woolen fabrics. Fullers were responsible for a crucial step in the cloth-making process known as 'fulling,' which involved cleaning and thickening the fabric. This was achieved through a combination of water, heat, and mechanical action, often using a foot-powered or water-powered mill. The fulling process not only removed impurities such as grease and dirt but also helped to mat the fibers together, resulting in a denser and more durable fabric. Fullers worked closely with weavers and dyers, ensuring that the cloth was ready for the final stages of production. The fulling process was labor-intensive and required a keen understanding of the materials and techniques involved, making the fuller a respected figure in the textile trade.

Day in the Life of a Fuller

Early Morning: Preparing the Workshop

As dawn breaks, the fuller arrives at the workshop, often located near a river or stream to take advantage of the water source needed for fulling. The first task of the day involves gathering the freshly woven cloth from the weavers, inspecting it for quality and ensuring it is ready for the fulling process. The fuller prepares the fulling troughs, filling them with water and heating it over a fire to create the ideal conditions for fulling.

Mid-Morning: The Fulling Process

Once the water reaches the right temperature, the fuller begins the laborious task of fulling the cloth. This involves submerging the fabric in the heated water and then trampling it with their feet or using a wooden mallet to agitate the fibers. This process can take several hours, as the fuller must ensure that the cloth is thoroughly cleaned and the fibers are properly matted together. The rhythmic sound of water splashing and the fuller’s feet working the fabric create a unique atmosphere in the workshop.

Afternoon: Rinsing and Drying

After the fulling is complete, the cloth is removed from the trough and rinsed in clean water to remove any remaining impurities. The fuller then hangs the fabric on lines to dry, often in the sun, which also helps to bleach the cloth naturally. During this time, the fuller may take a moment to inspect the fabric for any defects that may need to be addressed before it is sent to the dyers.

Late Afternoon: Quality Control and Record Keeping

As the day winds down, the fuller conducts a final inspection of the dried cloth, ensuring it meets the quality standards required by the weavers and dyers. They may also keep records of the quantities processed and any issues encountered during the fulling process. This attention to detail is crucial for maintaining good relationships with other tradespeople in the textile industry.

Evening: Closing the Workshop

As the sun sets, the fuller cleans the workshop, ensuring that tools and equipment are stored properly for the next day. The work is physically demanding, but the fuller takes pride in the transformation of raw fabric into a finished product, ready for the market.