Join me in this immersive introduction to wet felting. Starting from fluffy merino wool roving, participants will be guided through the process of composing their own design from a variety of dyed wool colours, and binding the loose fibres together into a flat felted piece.
Working by hand, students will be shown how to create a sturdy and pliable piece of felt that is resistant to fraying; manipulating the natural characteristics of the fine wool fibres to reinforce connections between each layer. Participants will complete the workshop with their own finished felt artwork, as well as the knowledge and skills required to continue working from home to experiment with more complex designs and incorporate other materials.
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners. All tools and materials will be supplied including fine merino wool roving in a range of colours. Please note that the final part of the felting process does require some physical work in order to compress and bind the piece together.
Felting
Sustainable and versatile, felt, in its simplest form, is a non-woven fabric made by matting or compressing fibres together. Typically crafted from wool, this textile showcases a remarkable ability to adapt to various designs. The production process of felt involves minimal energy usage and relies on techniques handed down through generations; traditional methods such as hand-felting eliminate the need for harmful chemicals or excessive machinery.
Beyond its admirable environmental qualities, felt also offers an array of practical advantages. This textile possesses exceptional insulating properties, providing warmth during chilly winters and maintaining a cool ambience on hot summer days. Its natural elasticity and insulating qualities make it an excellent choice for clothing and accessories.