Become a better wet felter in this class by sculpting two very different items with the same resist. A durable bowl/vessel and a thin luminary vessel have a similar beginning, wool carefully laid out over a round, flat resist and then wet felted to create a three dimensional item. How heavy the wool is laid out, the type of wool, how you finish it by fully felting it, will determine whether it is something sturdy enough to hold things or light enough to be illuminated. Students will make a durable bowl using a coarse wool mixed with merino. For a luminary, a finer wool roving mixed with a layer of silk fabric will be used for a smooth transparent surface. A stiffener may be added if necessary. Curly locks will be available for those interested in learning how to incorporate natural unprocessed fibers. Each student will practice laying out wool for a very even, thin, and consistent surface, choose their colors, consider their design, and then felt, felt, felt. Students will learn how to shape a 3D object, add a silk layer for strength and luminosity, stretch, shrink, sculpt and avoid visible seams.
There will be time to make a number of vessels. After learning both techniques students may choose their preferred method to continue practicing the techniques, play with designs, unique shapes and surface textures.
Some 3D wet felting experience is helpful, but not required.
Students ages 15+ may register for this course independently. Youth ages 10+ may register if accompanied by an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full paying adult; call to register.
Required Tools
- Two large towels
- A bag to carry home wet supplies
- Comfortable shoes for standing
Optional Tools
- If you'd like to use your own wool, you may bring it and we will test its suitability for the project. If you have any silk scarves, old chiffon scarves or interesting fibers you would like to add to the project, please bring them.
