Felt Matters

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/

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 engaging podcast episode, hosts Vivienne Morpeth and Heather Potten of the International Feltmakers Association share their passion for felt making. They discuss the significance of their felting tables as Vivienne recounts her serendipitous acquisition of a perfect felting table, adding a personal touch to her crafting space. The discussion moves onto sourcing and dyeing silk and the joy of felting with raw fleece.

Vivienne introduces her Felt on the Shelf section before looking more closely at the British Wool for Feltmaking book published by Crowood Press. This book provides listeners with a wealth of inspiration and practical tips. And finally, Vivienne shares her Top Tip for dyeing wool fibres.

Heather Potten and Vivienne Morpeth take listeners on a journey through the vibrant world of feltmaking. They talk about their inspiration for starting the podcast and how their love for felting drives their creative processes. Heather shares her experiences from attending the felt school in Wales and the joy of interacting with other feltmakers. The episode also delves into practical tips for feltmakers, such as Heather’s technique for upcycling old felting projects into beautiful new creations, ensuring a blend of practical advice and personal anecdotes.

Hosted by Vivienne Morpeth and Heather Potten, the Felt Matters podcast is a new and exciting addition to the felting world. The podcast aims to provide a platform for conversations about all things felting. Both avid felt makers themselves, our hosts share their experiences, tips, and inspiration, while also featuring conversations with other feltmakers. Listeners can expect to explore the art of felting from different perspectives, learn new techniques, and find resources and inspiration to fuel their own felting journey. Whether you're a seasoned feltmaker or just starting out, Felt Matters is a must-listen podcast for any felting enthusiast.