Felt Matters

Join Heather Potten as she dips into the archives of the journal of the International Feltmakers Association. From the journal's origins in 1986 as 'Echoes' to its current form, 'Felt Matters,' the archive features a rich history of global feltmaking innovation. Heather shares inspiring stories, including the revival of feltmaking in Armenia and international collaborations. The episode also covers the creation of the association's first online feltmaking courses and the ongoing influence of the journal, offering a treasure trove of resources and inspiration for felt enthusiasts.

In another feature of the podcast, Vivienne Morpeth continues to explore The British Wool for Feltmaking book published by Crowood Press. It highlights the different wool structures, from fine to coarse, and the practical applications for feltmakers. The book includes both wet and needle felting techniques, emphasizing local and natural fleeces. Listeners are invited to visit this fascinating world of wool types, their uses, and creative projects, ensuring a comprehensive resource for both new and seasoned feltmakers.

In this episode of Felt Matters, hosts Vivienne Morpeth and Heather Potten welcome Louise Curnin, a key figure behind the International Feltmakers Association's Discovering Feltmaking courses. Louise explains the rationale behind focusing on foundational skills instead of solely project-based learning. She highlights the critical aspects of fibre variability, shrinkage rates, and the importance of sampling. This episode offers valuable advice for both novice and experienced felt makers, emphasizing how structured sampling and warm-up exercises can significantly improve one's felting technique and overall artistic output.

For more information on our online courses, Discovering Feltmaking, go to https://www.feltmakers.com/discovering-feltmaking-course/

Heather and Vivienne return to the studio, sharing their reflections on the completion of the first season of their podcast, 'Felt Matters.' The episode centres around Vivienne's honest and heartfelt account of her health journey, giving listeners a glimpse into the emotional and physical challenges she faces. Their conversation navigates the complexities of living with cancer while remaining passionate about creative pursuits. As they look forward to Season Two, both hosts are inspired by the feedback and support from their listeners. The episode underscores the duo's dedication to creating authentic content and fostering community connections through their shared love of feltmaking.

It's no secret to us that feltmaking helps promote a sense of wellbeing and connection. Vivienne and Heather talk about the benefits of making (and teaching) feltmaking with examples from their lives and those of their three guests. Louise Curnin talks to Tasmanian feltmaker Mary Brake, about a felting project she and her family did for the arrival of a new baby. Heather talks to Niamh Britton about her autistic mind and what feltmaking means to her. Rounding up the episode, Louise talks to US feltmaker, Ellen Silberlicht about the volunteering she does with local prisoners.

Join Heather and Vivienne in their virtual studio for a peek into the creative process of felting. Listen to their three guests, Liz Riley, Wendy Bailye and Ellen Silberlicht as each offers an insight into their process. Be inspired by tips on three-dimensional sampling with Liz, sampling, mixed media and the creative process with Wendy and the joy Ellen found through working with clay and felt.

Ellen was the cover star of Issue 130 of our journal, Felt Matters and was interviewed by Louise Curnin in Hungary. Members of the International Feltmakers Association have full access to all our journals here: https://www.feltmakers.com/journal-archive/

Members can also watch Wendy's talk, commissioned for our 2022 online AGM, (along with all our other commissioned videos and talks) here: https://www.feltmakers.com/talks/