NEEDLE FELTING: A SCULPTURAL APPROACH

4-day workshop with Stephanie Metz, August 15-18, 2025. Cost is $1,014, which includes lunch daily and a materials fee of $85. The workshop is limited to 12 attendees. Applications close on July 15, 2025, or when maximum capacity is reached.

This intermediate/advanced workshop explores multiple ways to advance three-dimensional needle felting by incorporating techniques from other sculpture traditions including clay, stone carving, and metal joining. Stephanie Metz teaches her tactile process of "wool drawings" and fiber sculptures involving hand stitching thick industrial felt and repetitive needle felting of wool fibers into solid masses. Class time includes daily demonstrations and one-on-one instruction with hands-on work time. Topics covered include variations on basic form-building, smoothing, fine detailing, adding color, incorporating mixed media, and working with armatures. The focus is on trying techniques for creative problem-solving rather than completing specific projects, though students may bring in-progress work for feedback.

Prior experience in needle felting is requested but expertise is not required. The materials kit includes 1lb of natural white Corriedale wool roving, 1.5 oz of colorful Corriedale roving, ten felting needles, and a foam work surface. Students are welcome to bring their own needle felting tools, materials, and supplies. Multi-needle tool holders can be purchased in class. Note that needle felting involves repetitive, physical hand and arm exercise. Willow Pond SLO is a 14-acre artist retreat on the Central Coast with farm-to-table meals catered by a local chef.