Success!!!!

It turned out just PERFECT!  Well, except that I forgot to put an I-cord loop on it for hanging. 

It is SUPER thick - right where it needs to be.  And it shrank down to the perfect size.  It's 5" across - just perfect, and the length is great too.  I'm quite happy with it.  I am grateful for a warm sunny day.  Even at that, I think it will take a good long while to dry. 

I ran it thru the washing cycle twice.  Both on Hot/Cold - with normal detergent and two large bath towels.  I have a front loader.  I put it in a lingerie bag, but there was really no shedding or fiber or mess at all!!!  Needless to say, I have started the mate.  I may keep this one for myself and make two others as the gift.....with hanging loops.  I have plenty of yarn in my stash......

Thanks to everyone who sent their good felting fibes my way!  It worked!