Felting

Felting creates fabric without weaving or knitting. Instead, wool fibers are matted together through moisture, heat, and agitation (wet felting) or by repeatedly poking them with barbed needles (needle felting). The result is dense, durable cloth that can be flat or sculptural.

Felt is perhaps humanity's oldest fabric, predating woven textiles. Working with wool this directly feels primal—you're manipulating raw material with your hands, watching it transform into something entirely different.

Feltmaking originated with Central Asian nomads at least 3,000 years ago. The Mongolian yurt, covered in felt, remains the iconic use of the material. These cultures developed felt for clothing, rugs, and shelter without ever needing looms or spinning wheels.

Needle felting emerged in the 1980s when artists adapted industrial needle-punching for hand use. This opened new possibilities, especially for three-dimensional sculpture. Today, felt artists work across traditions, from functional items to fine art.

Felting classes typically focus on either wet or needle techniques. Wet felting is physical—you'll agitate wool with your hands or tools until it mats together. Needle felting is quieter, using repetitive poking to build form.

Studios provide wool, needles, and other materials. Wet felting can get messy; wear clothes that can handle soap and water. Needle felting risks poked fingers; foam pads protect your work surface.

Classes run 2-3 hours. Both techniques are accessible to beginners, though needle felting's sculptural possibilities may take longer to master.