Fantasy Masks Workshop with Sharon Costello

Had a great workshop with Sharon Costello -- Fantasy Masks. Ten felters from Tucson Handweaavers and Spinners Guild let their imaginations run wild. 2 Days of FUN!

Bird Nestles!

Our latest fun...wet felting charming retreats for our friends, the birds! Looks sweet and move in ready. We'll keep you posted once spring returns and nesting begins in earnest (ha-ha). Birds and squirrels have been eyeing them but no tenants yet. Maybe fairies will move in first? Easily entertained? Yes indeed.

felting fun in the desert

This most recent workshop sang with the felting talents of Sharon and Linda while they made vests. The fitting and finishing is always exciting...more so with these two good friends. Thanks be for two days of felting comraderie in the Sonoran Desert.

No Seams! No Sewing!

We continue to explore seamless garment contruction using a resist pattern. Taking advantage of the selvedge edges of the silk at hemlines and necklines makes for a clean finish. It is fun to try and construct the garment at the same time you are doing the feltmaking process rather than making yardage and then sewing the piece in a more conventional manner. I enjoy the many levels of planning involved and the fun of trying new approaches to accomplish the desired effect. Allows my inner scientist to marry with my artist!

Honey Gold HAt

Sculpting Wool!

I am really enjoying the finishing of the wet-felted wool hat. I have found that doing the layout and initial felting of the piece on the first day, then saving the finishing for another day works great for me. Being patient and fresh improves my chance of responding to the the inclinations of the wool itself. I'm more apt to follow the fibers lead...and execise my sculpting desires accordingly. Once again, thank you sheep!

How much fun can you have making a hat?

LOTS! It just amazes me how much fun I have making a hat. Every time I do it I still get that giddy tickle of contentment. I guess that's one of the most alluring aspects of feltmaking for me. It stiil feels like opening a present...fun with Lois and Dawn at our studio workshop yesterday. Pictures to follow.