This is a great introductory class for first time felters or a next steps class for more experienced felters. Either way, you will get to explore this fascinating medium, in a choose-your-own- adventure format. We will take time at the beginning of the first day to discuss projects, different animal fibres, fibre properties, the structure/building blocks of this textile, and different decorative techniques and materials that can be used. You will then either choose a specific project or work in a more unstructured way, letting the fibres take the lead.

Project options include:

• Piece of fabric or Small wall hanging (play, design, choose your fibre palette – the options are endless)
• Small cowl (integrates one joining felted “seam”)
• Bag/Purse (integrates felted “seams” to make a 3-dimensional shape)
• Large bowl (touches on more 3-dimensional sculptural manipulation)
• Two small bowls (there are two different methods that you can explore)
• A custom piece (present your own idea prior to that class!)

The process of wet felting is simple in its setup, materials and resources required. However, the understanding and nuance of the felting practice is not so simple. It takes time to learn and understand the laying out of fibres, feel the tactile clues the fabric is giving you, see the changes in texture and density of fibres as you work through the process, and learn how to incorporate decorative elements into the design of your textile. 

When loose, single, animal fibres get pressed and matted together through physical agitation, a fabric mat is formed. It is a seemingly magical process, where the scales of each individual fibre bump and lock together. It is a satisfying process and really does make one realize the endless possibilities within this craft, limited only by your imagination. 

Felt is considered the world’s oldest cloth textile, predating woven fabric. The process has remained relatively unchanged since its origins, before the 6th century B.C. Felt has played, and still does play an important role in making shelters, clothing, rugs, saddles, hats, decorative art and ceremonial pieces.

I like to keep my class sizes small, at 5 students. This allows for intimate, hands-on instruction. Having different project options amongst participants also lets you gain insight into the process involved in working through different projects. 

This course is suitable for beginner and experienced felters, ages 12+. Larger and more complex projects would be best suited to the two-day format.  

Please note: wet felting is physical, where each step takes time and a certain amount of excursion to get to the next stage. You will be on your feet for the better part of the day.