About felt-making
Felt is probably one of the oldest known textiles, having been used for centuries to make clothing, footwear, tents and carpets in many parts of the world.
In recent years it has also become a popular medium with textile artists and is often used in textile crafts. Felt is a wonderful fabric to stitch into and is incredibly versatile. Depending on the type of felt, it can be used to make fine draping scarves, jewellery, hats, bags, or thick water-resistant boots.
The basic principles of making felt have remained unchanged since ancient times – the essential ingredient is wool, which is made into felt by adding water, friction and heat.
The most popular type of wool for wet felt-making is merino, a fine wool that felts easily and is widely available in many different colours. The wool is purchased as carded fleece (or tops).
Other wools can be used in felt-making to give different textures, and other fibres, synthetic yarns and even scraps of fabric can be added during the felting process for decoration.
In recent years it has also become a popular medium with textile artists and is often used in textile crafts. Felt is a wonderful fabric to stitch into and is incredibly versatile. Depending on the type of felt, it can be used to make fine draping scarves, jewellery, hats, bags, or thick water-resistant boots.
The basic principles of making felt have remained unchanged since ancient times – the essential ingredient is wool, which is made into felt by adding water, friction and heat.
The most popular type of wool for wet felt-making is merino, a fine wool that felts easily and is widely available in many different colours. The wool is purchased as carded fleece (or tops).
Other wools can be used in felt-making to give different textures, and other fibres, synthetic yarns and even scraps of fabric can be added during the felting process for decoration.
Introduction to traditional felt-making - one day small-group workshops
The equipment needed for traditional or wet felt-making is inexpensive and simple:
- a bamboo mat
- bubble wrap
- a piece of netting
- wool tops
- olive oil soap
- a spray bottle (and water!)
All equipment and materials are provided but feel free to bring along any bits and pieces you already have. Please also bring a couple of old towels (to mop up any excess water), a hand-towel and some thin rubber gloves if you prefer to wear them.
The day will include an introduction to the materials, equipment and the basic felt-making process, after which you will be able to create your own felt pieces. You will be encouraged to experiment with different wools and fibres to discover how they behave when felted. There will also be an opportunity, if time allows, for you to try either seamless felting, needle felting or nuno felting (where wool fibres are felted onto fine fabric). Printed notes will be provided and there will be a selection of books, magazines and felt samples to look at for inspiration.
Workshops run from 10am to 3pm with a one hour break for lunch. Tea/coffee and biscuits are included. I also offer half-day follow-on classes by arrangement. Please contact me for available dates and prices.
NEW! Workshop in a box
You can now purchase a 'takeaway' version of my felt-making workshop.
'Introduction to Felt-making: Workshop in a Box' is now available to buy online and at craft fairs. The box includes clear, printed instructions and all the materials and equipment you need to start making felt (just add water!). A great gift idea at just £19.50 plus postage. Available to buy online and at craft fairs. Contact me to order one.
'Introduction to Felt-making: Workshop in a Box' is now available to buy online and at craft fairs. The box includes clear, printed instructions and all the materials and equipment you need to start making felt (just add water!). A great gift idea at just £19.50 plus postage. Available to buy online and at craft fairs. Contact me to order one.
