Learn the magic of wet felting and create artistic and useful items of your choice, such as wall art, coasters, place mats, hats, slippers, wrist warmers, collars, pouches, or bags.
Wet felting is a wonderful art medium, even for a beginner. Experience the excitement of discovery and the beauty which the medium brings so easily. The wool contributes its own energy to the process. Felt encourages color mixing and graduated color and it provides a unique texture that invites touching. Depending on your prior level of experience and on your current sense of adventure, the possibilities range from smooth, two-dimensional pieces to three-dimensional pieces with intricate textures. This workshop will introduce you to wool from local sheep. The instructor will also share her experience processing raw wool for felting, blending colors, and making eco prints on felt using local plants.
This class is excellent for a beginner as an introduction to felting and also for the experienced felter who wants to learn more about making good felt. The artistic possibilities of the felt medium will be a central focus of the workshop.
Additional Supply Fee: Combed and carded wool fibers are available for purchase; or bring your own if you like. Expect to use approximately 6 – 12 ounces of fiber, or even more, if you are exceptionally energetic or adventurous. The price of fiber is between $2 and $5 per ounce. All equipment and supplies are included and available at the workshop.
Workshop Reviews
“Ursula is a gifted teacher as she helps support her students’ experience with creating felted pieces. She offers clear instructions and demonstrates those processes. Then, she infuses her teaching with trust for each of our creative experiences; whether working with skilled artists or happy beginners, her patience and encouragement offer an energetic delight. I recommend her course to anyone who loves the alchemy of creativity with wool, gifted teaching in a beautifully inspiring natural setting.” – Paula Fugman, Covelo
“Ursula is an inspiration to all who know her. I’ve enjoyed having her as a guest artist in my visual arts classes at Willits High School. The students enjoyed the entire process of making art. Ursula captured their imagination and encouraged them along the way. She has a wonderful, relaxed presence in the classroom and a witty sense of humor. She is a gifted teacher.” – Carolyn Bakewell, Willits
About the Instructor
I am constantly moved and inspired by the patterns, textures, colors, and moods of the natural environment and how they transform themselves throughout the day and the year, as seen in water, fire, clouds, animals, plants, and rocks.
My goal is to foster strong connections between humans and their environment and therefore, I have chosen plant and animal fibers as my main artistic medium. I am especially drawn to local art materials.
My art work has been part of various juried exhibits throughout Mendocino County and it is in private collections in California, Oregon, New York, England, Scotland, Germany, and Austria.
I have been teaching fiber arts courses at Willits High School, Willits Kids Club, Mendocino College Community Extension Program and in my private studio. For more information, please visit my website www.ursulafibers.com
About the Instructor