FELTMAKING FOR BEGINNERS

Working with fleece, layering colours and blending the fibres together to create felt Tuition will be given in all the skills needed to produce felt - cutting the fleece and joining pieces together to create felt fabric. Making flat pieces and working with wet and dry felt to achieve different effects. It will also include tuition in the correct and safe use of the appropriate tools, materials, etc; guidance on the health and safety issues involved, styles and finishing techniques.

The content and outcomes of the course will be discussed with you and may be adapted to meet your needs and those of the group. As a guide by the end of the workshop you should be able to:
blend colours and fibres together
use the wet feltmaking method and make a sample cloth
use the needlefelt/dry method to create a 2d or 3d sample
identify fibres suitable for feltmaking
join felt pieces together(needlefelt method)
compare the two feltmaking techniques
add finishing touches/hand stitching/trimmings and e

Who is the course for?

The aim of this course is to give the inexperienced learner the opportunity to explore the basic techniques of feltmaking required to create a textile sample working fleece from fibre to fabric.
Who is the course for and what level is it?
This course is designed for those looking to develop their creativity alongside others in the community. The course level will encompass both beginner and the more experienced student. For the beginner, they will learn a new skill; the more experienced will apply the techniques they have already learnt, and expand their knowledge by tackling a bigger project.

What is your approach?

Teaching is practical with personal and group instruction as required by students’ projects. There will be samples and examples of feltmaking projects and accompanying books/visual references.

What can I do next?

If you would like more information about progression opportunities, please speak to your tutor or other member of staff.
Further information about career opportunities can be found by visiting https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

What will I need?

You will have an opportunity to maintain an Individual Learning Plan and your tutor will discuss your progress and achievement with you throughout the course.
What will I need for the workshop?
An apron
Rubber gloves
A sharp pair of scissors
Additional materials/equipment will be available to use on the day.
Please bring all cold drinks, snacks and lunch for the day. Hot drinks are available.
Are there any other costs?
Yes; a small fee of £2 to cover fleece used for feltmaking.
Felting needles will be available to buy at £1 each.

Additional information

Aspire Sussex welcomes students from all sections of our diverse community. If you feel you have additional learning needs, please ask about the support which is available.