Needle Felting - Frosty in Fall: A Beginner's Guide, at Swan Island Dahlias

Needle Felting Class - Finley the Frog: Big Day Out

Who says you have to wait for the first frost to build a snowman? Join us in September to needle felt your very own 3-inch "all-season" friend! This cheery little guy features classic coal buttons, a bright orange nose, and charming brown twig arms that give him a hand-crafted, rustic personality.

In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn the art of "painting with wool" and sculpting 3D shapes. We will focus on building a solid wool base and mastering the delicate needlework needed for his arms and nose. A highlight of the class will be learning how to create a realistic, scarf entirely out of wool!

Your snowman is designed to sit perfectly on a shelf or desk, but I’ll also show you how to add a hanger if you'd like to turn him into a year-round ornament.
What You Will Learn
*Tool Kit 101: A general overview of needle felting needles, mats, and different types of wool.
*Foundations: How to build and stabilize a 3D wool base.
Sculpting & Attachment: Techniques for joining wool shapes securely (like noses, and body).
*The Details: Create a cozy wool scarf and fine needlework for the coal buttons, face, and arms.
All supplies are provided. Whether you’re a total novice or a pro, you'll master my special "no-wobble" head attachment trick. Join us to sculpt a Frosty that will stay perfectly frozen all year long!

To ensure the best environment for your wool creations, please refrain from bringing open food into the class.

Closed-container drinks are welcome!

We also ask that you avoid applying lotion to your hands immediately before class.

About the Artist/Instructor: Joy, a needle felting artist native to the beautiful state of Oregon, has been captivated by the transformative power of wool for over 16 years. With a special needle and a vibrant palette of colored wool, Joy sculpts unique and whimsical creations that have found homes across the United States. Instantly drawn to the tactile and expressive nature of needle felting, Joy is passionate about sharing this relaxing and rewarding craft. For the past several years, she has been teaching individuals and groups, making needle felting accessible to everyone. This summer, Joy looks forward to introducing you to, or re-engaging you with, the wonderful world of needle felting, where creativity and wool come together.

Each Participant will leave with Frosty

All supplies are included in the class fee of $46.00

Length of Class: approximately 3.5 hours

Minimum Age: 15+ years old

*No guests are allowed. Each person in the class will need to purchase a ticket.

*The class is held indoors in a barn with a sawdust/dirt floor. Please dress accordingly.

*No food allowed in classroom (per instructor request) - please ask Instructor.

*Closed lid drinks only allowed in the classroom (per Instructor request). Food and Drink are available for purchase from the on-site food truck(s). Please arrive well in advance to allow time to purchase your drinks, as the instructor will not be able to wait to start the class if you are late.

*Please check in near the Cut Flower Stand 10-15 minutes prior to your class time.

-Please check your email the day of class for any updates.

@theessenceofnonsense

Join us for a class during the festival -

Annual Dahlia Festival - Centennial Celebration

A Century of Blooms - A Future Rooted in Beauty

Celebrate the dazzling Season of DAHLIAS with us at the Annual Dahlia Festival, blooming brightly August through September! Our festival grounds are open Wednesday–Sunday & Labor Day, 9 am–5:30 pm, ready to welcome you into a world bursting with color.

Step into a rainbow of over 500,000 dahlia plants spread across nearly 50 acres, plus a stunning display garden showcasing 375+ unique varieties. Wander, explore, and fall in love with your favorites—then order them online for joyful spring planting. Treat yourself (or someone special) to a fresh-cut bouquet to take home.

Discover treasures at THE MERCANTILE, filled with unique gifts, charming finds, self‑care favorites, and handcrafted creations from local artists—open year‑round. Savor yummy treats from our Food Trucks, unwind with Live Music on weekends, or dive into creativity with one of our festival Classes. Check the events calendar for all the fun happening throughout the season.

Free Parking. Free Admission. Endless beauty. And don’t forget your camera—this is where memories bloom.

(classroom photo: credit Angela Hawes)