Sun, 02 Jul
|Westbury Arts Centre
Feltmaking with natural wools from the British Isles.
Time & Location
02 Jul 2023, 10:00 – 16:00
Westbury Arts Centre, Foxcovert Road, Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes MK5 6AA
About the Event
WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP FOR?
Complete beginners as well as more experienced felt makers.
ABOUT THE WORKSHOP:
Did you know that there are over 60 different breeds of sheep in Britain, more than in any country in the world! Wool is biodegradable, sustainable and has some amazing properties, one of which is that it can be made into a non-woven fabric, felt, which ranges from soft and silky, strong and waterproof, sculptural, 3D or flat, depending on the variety and techniques used. Enjoy a relaxing day and make a few small items using naturally-coloured British wools. Learn about the very diverse sheep which are native to these islands, and their different kinds of wools. You'll learn some of the techniques of the ancient craft of wet felt-making, which goes back thousands of years to before other fibre arts such as spinning, weaving and knitting. You can choose to make a set of coasters or table mats, small bowls, woolly pebbles, a purse or a book cover.
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT INCLUDED;
A choice of clean, prepared wools, both carded and curly, in beautiful shades of greys, creams, oatmeal and browns. Use of felting equipment.
Books about sheep and felt making for reference.
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU:
2 or 3 small old towels.
Carrier bag.
COST:
£65, which included all the wools and embellishments and use of the equipment you'll need. Hot drinks and biscuits are included.
HOW TO BOOK OR IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE WORKSHOP:
Contact Hilly, the tutor, on hilly@hillyedwards.com