What can you make with felt?

Why you can make anything you can dream up!
Felting through history has seen it be incarnated as everything from housing to battle armor and is still made by traditional peoples around the world to fashion into many useful items.

This website has a great summary of felt's impressive history:
http://www.straw.com/tan/felt.html

Here are a few of the many things made from felt around my house!

Comfy, insulating whimsical slippers:



Pirate treasure maps, of course!


The "Mendelssohn" scarf. Merino and Silk on Cotton. I describe this one as a love child born from Aurora Borealis and Joyce's description of the sea:


A happy handbag:

A stocking fit for stuffing!


A wall-hanging that lives in my mermaidy under-sea bathroom:



Matching Vests for Elfin brothers:



A gauzy silk scarf perfect for gifting this holiday season:




The list goes on...another day.

A Note on Attending Workshops!

Just few things to keep in mind on the day of your workshop:

1. Wear comfortable shoes (or bring your house shoes or some socks or go barefoot!) Whatever is most comfortable for you over an extended period of standing. There are chairs, but you really won't want to use them as you're creating your piece of art.

2. Bring a lunch and water bottle. I will have coffee, tea, etc but you may want a packed lunch and also your water bottle to keep near you while you're working.

3. Children's workshops - They are best suited for the 3 and over crowd but any age is welcome to attend. The adult accompanying the child can always finish the piece off. They will be situated on the floor on mats and very accessible for young children. Felt beads is the easiest workshop and even the very youngest helpers will have fun rolling the wool in their little hands.

4. Most Importantly: Don't worry about it! Even if you don't fancy yourself as artistic or creative YOU CAN DO IT! You will still walk away with a gorgeous, unique piece of art that you made all by yourself. It is amazing the inspiration that flows in a room full of beautiful wool and happy people! All these classes can be taken by the absolute beginner.

Schedule of 2009 Workshops

August :
Saturday 29th - Nuno wool-on-silk scarves 9am-2pm $50 - This workshop is FULL

September:
Saturday 19th - Nuno wool-on-silk scarves 9am-2pm $50

October:
Sunday 4th - Child-friendly felt bead jewelry 9am-Noon $20
Saturday 10th - Table runner or hanging piece. 9am-2pm $50
Saturday 24th - Nuno wool-on-silk scarves 9am-2pm $50

November:
Saturday 7th - Child-friendly fall themed felt pictures. 9am-Noon $20
Saturday 14th - Felted purse/handbag. 9am-2pm $50 - This workshop is full!

December:
Saturday 5th - Felt Christmas stocking. 9am-2pm $50
Saturday 12th - Child-friendly Christmas Decorations. 9am-Noon $20

Introduction

Hello all!
I am proud to introduce my newest venture open for business!

I will be opening my home as a studio to teach the art of felt making.

I have been making wool felt for about 15 years now. A really long time! My mother taught me when I was young and I have taught several people over the years. My mum is still a teacher and is known quite well (in Australia) for her felt designs and creativity.

With wool felt, the sky is the limit.
You can make flat pieces to display on the wall, framed, as table runners or place mats, felt cushions or pillow covers, bags, hats, scarves, mittens, slippers, toys, balls, bowls, dolls, blankets, door mats, poncho's, brooches, etc etc etc.

I will provide all the high quality supplies, the instruction and cheerleading, light refreshments and the space in which to create something gorgeous and truly one-of-a-kind.

The items you give life to would make wonderful presents for the upcoming gifting season. Everyone loves a homemade, heartfelt offering.

You will also walk away with a new found skill that you are able to put to use for the rest of your life.

My first workshop will be Nuno felted scarves. These are gorgeous wool-on-silk scarves.

Price is $50 per person. Most workshops last between 3 and 5 hours (when you are done you're welcome to stay or leave). I ask for a $10 deposit to reserve your spot. I am able to take 4 people for this particular workshop due to the space needed for a scarf.

Children are unfortunately unable to attend this particular workshop but there will be child-centered workshops offered in the near future!

Date is Saturday August 29th 9am-2pm (or until finished).

Comment on this blog, email me at amba.whatley AT gmail.com or call 214.552.8285 for more info or to reserve your spot!

More workshops in the very near future!
Please feel free to spread the word and tell anyone you might think would be interested!

Here are some recent pictures of felt scarves to whet your appetite!