World of Felting with Louise Omoto Kessel

Ever put a wool sweater in the washing machine on hot by accident? And it shrank and got really thick and tough? That is felting! Except we will do it on purpose using colorful wool to make wonderful things. Felting is the art of harnessing those same scientific principles that made your sweater shrink (with a little more technique and artistic control) for making whimsical or functional objects from wool or vegan fibers.

Each week Louise will demonstrate a specific technique or project. Campers will develop skills in both needle felting and wet felting. A little bit of felting experience opens the door to a huge variety of projects. . . . fun felted animals, beads, jewelry, backpack charms, patches, decorations on clothing, wall hangings, pillows, pouches and bags, felted soap — and for more advanced felters, hats, mittens and slippers. This semester long course will give a structured tour of what’s possible; and campers will have a lot of room to follow their muse when choosing and designing projects.

Felt is the first cloth that people made; it is an ancient art form. Louise will share stories and images of felting traditions from all over the world, introduce the fiber plants and animals that provide our materials, and explain the science behind why it works!

This workshop is appropriate for people who are brand new to felting. This workshop is also recommended for experienced felters who are younger than 12, who want a structured workshop that will expand their skills, who want to learn more about the history and traditions of felting around the world or who find the 1-3 time slot fits well into their schedule!

Register online at:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSel5mzmdSC7CfDUQLpLr5piMPHh-D1UHVw_Han_sXP6XS3QLA/viewform