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Stitch Therapy is running two sessions of this workshop w/ BECKY WALKER, Felt maker. |
WOOL + HOT WATER + SOAP + “ELBOW GREASE” = FELT
Wool is an unique fiber – different from all other fur or hair – because, under the right conditions, it can “stick” together to form a fabric, without having been woven or sewn. Under a microscope, we can see the tiny, overlapping scales that cover each strand. With the addition of hot water and soap, those scales open, the core of the fiber swells, the fibers catch onto each other. With repeated pressure* and agitation* the air is forced from between the fibers, and they can lock together more securely. Wool also shrinks when it exposed to temperature changes, so this factor also contributes to the felting process.
Felt is the oldest known fabric, predating spinning and weaving. No one knows exactly when or how it was discovered, but it has been used for centuries for clothing, housing, and other practical purposes. Several different cultures have embraced its usefulness through the ages. Recently, this ancient product has found its way into the art/craft world. Although still being made for traditional purposes, it is now used to produce artwork for purely aesthetic reasons.
Felt making is an art form that is accessible to everyone. It requires very little in the way of equipment. Once the principles are understood, there are very few rules! Patience and effort are rewarded… the only mistake is not working hard enough!
Felt Making is an art form
that is accessible to everyone.
· No knit
or crochet involved
· Express yourself with colorful wool roving
· 3 hour workshop
· Workshop fee: $55.00
Class materials Fee: $25.00
Class materials Fee: $25.00
DATE: Saturday, September 14th
TIME: 10:00 am or 2:00
pm
Register
now with Paypal or call 718/398-2020
BECKY WALKER - Felt Maker
Learning to
knit was my first experience in the fiber arts, and many sweaters and pairs of
sock later, it is still a passion. The
desire to keep sheep encouraged me to learn to spin, and because of my active
nature, to make felt.
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| Becky Walker with her flock. |
A felt
making class in the early 1990’s began my exploration of wool and its
possibilities. Although quite ancient,
felt has recently found its way into fine arts and crafts circles. Since I live in the South, felt clothing is
impractical, so I began thinking of useful items for the home. Throughout history, the artist has found ways
to make utilitarian items beautiful, and this urge has become my focus.
Some further study and a lot of
experimentation have brought me to a level of instructional expertise and
artistic production that has allowed me to teach classes and workshops for
adults and children.My formula for felt making is: Wool + Hot Water +Soap + “Elbow Grease” = FELT! It is my goal to make this activity accessible to anyone and to help each student be successful in producing a piece of art that can be used.
