Feltmaking in the 21st Century - 5 week course

Come and discover the ancient craft of feltmaking- a magical transformation of fluff to a solid useable fabric– using wool fibres, water, soap, and some friction….and your enthusiasm!

There are many possibilities to discover; wool from different breeds and countries has different characteristics- which we can utilise. In the 21st century we are not restricted using wool from our own flock of sheep to make felt to keep us clothed or to warm our homes, but have access to the processed wool of many different breeds, in natural colours, or we can go wild with the myriad of colours of dyed wool!

You will be guided to use wool with characteristics suitable for purpose, and learn how to make felt with readily available and minimal equipment --as has been done since 6000BC!

All materials will be provided. Of course you are welcome to bring “stuff” and any favourite tools suitable for the technique if you should have any to hand. There is no need to go out and buy anything especially. A camera (or phone), a notebook and pen would be useful.

In these sessions we will explore various techniques which will give you a basis to explore further, with some examples in finished pieces. We will use different wool breeds, different ways of arranging the fibres for different results, and how to blend colours. We will make flat (2D) pieces and explore surface decoration possibilities, and go on to some of the techniques to make seamless 3D felt pieces …how is this possible?,… how to calculate shrinkage to achieve an accurate finished size….incorporating fabric – or even paper- in to the felt… traditional designs…contemporary ideas ….and lots more!

The workshop course is suitable for beginners and more experienced feltmakers. Each week you will build on your experience and add more new techniques.

I hope you will come and explore many of the wonderful possibilities!

Please note these sessions will run each Thursday from 9th October to 6th November, 10am -4pm.

Artist bio:

Starting with my dollies’ clothes, I have always been a “maker”, and love working with all sorts of yarns, textiles and threads – knitting, hand and machine stitching, dressmaking, pattern drafting, and simple tailoring. I was introduced to the ancient technique of (wet) felting on an HND textiles course at Craven College, Skipton, and was completely blown away! As a result, I have been a feltmaker now for about 15 years, and it never ceases to amaze me how woolly “fluff” can be transformed into such different outcomes by adding only water, agitation and some patience. I love teaching this ancient technique, and seeing others delight in this amazing alchemy!

When attending a workshop you can receive 10% off within the Gallery Shop on the day of your session.

About the venue

Sunny Bank Mills is an inspirational cultural destination in the heart of the local community of Farsley, Leeds. Founded in 1829, these glorious Mills are being regenerated by the sixth generation of the family owners, creating a wonderful blend of work, leisure and culture.

Course terms and booking conditions

Workshop and course bookings can be cancelled and refunded up until 7 days before the scheduled start date. As materials and equipment are ordered in advance, we regret that refunds cannot be offered less than 7 days before the workshop date. Please note that Eventbrite’s booking fee is non-refundable.

If we need to cancel the course for any reason your ticket will be fully refunded.

Host or Publisher Sunny Bank Mills Gallery