Explore Feltmaking (TE01 Summer)

An introduction to traditional and contemporary felt making with an opportunity to experiment with a range of fibres, fabric, and wool to create functional and decorative pieces.

What will you learn on this course?

This course is an introduction to traditional and contemporary felt making. You will be taught the skills to create tactile surfaces for stitch and dye, plus more advanced techniques including resists and Nuno felting to develop functional and decorative pieces. You’ll also learn about the properties of wool and appreciate how and why it felts.

On this course you will learn to:

• Create 2D felt using traditional wet rolling technique
• Layout wool and calculate shrinkage for wet rolling felt
• Identify and work with a range of animal, plant, and man-made fibres
• Use colour, create pattern, and ‘paint’ with wool
• Create and use pre-felt
• Incorporate threads, fibres and fabric into the felt to creative decorative surfaces
• Make and use resists to create seamless felt

The course is delivered through a mix of demonstrations and practical exercises. Students will be provided with handouts for each technique and will build a personal portfolio of samples to refer to for future felting projects.

The course content is guided by the ability and prior experience of the students attending. Students wishing to re-enrol are welcomed and assisted to develop their skills further and work on individual projects with guided support from the tutor.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults 18+ years at all levels. You don’t need any previous experience of Feltmaking as full instruction and guidance is given. Those with experience will be able to improve their skills, technique and develop new designs.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. The room is wheelchair accessible. A support worker or carer may assist; carers must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

Do you need to bring anything?

Please wear old clothes and bring a waterproof apron. All materials and equipment are provided.

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs.

Who teaches this course?

Penny Dixon

During the summer term, April 2025, this course may be affected by building work taking place at MAC. Participants will be notified in advance of any updates.