Felt is a non-woven fabric that utilizes the ability of microscopic scales on wool fiber to attach and hold together firmly. Cobweb felting is an advanced form of felting that is made with a single layer of wool – sheer, but sturdy enough to hold together well. Cobweb felt is particularly beautiful when backlit and it is well suited for home décor like curtains and lampshades. In this course, students will create a floor lampshade using resist wet-felting techniques and longwool roving. These lampshades celebrate the structure of the wool fibers when illuminated. Students will leave with an understanding of how they can use this technique to retrofit lampshades they have at home and a handmade floor lamp that creates a soft, warm light to enhance any room. Prior wet-felting experience and familiarity with laying out wool will be helpful.

You will need the following tools for this class:

• Ice cream bucket
• 2 old bath towels
• ball brauser (or plastic water bottle with holes punched in the cap)
• plastic bag to carry wet items home.

All other required tools/materials are provided by your instructor and North House and will be available once the course begins.

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course. For example, your favorite felting tool (i.e. Palm washboard, felting stone, ribbed Tupperware lid, etc.), favorite bar
soap, lightweight novelty yarns, silks, lace, and/or locks for embellishment. An apron can be nice.