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Expressive fibres – fine art textile feltwork

For artists and makers with an interest in textiles, wishing to explore material behaviours and the wet felting technique. This course is based at West Dean College.

  • Booking essential

On the first morning, we will take inspiration from our beautiful surroundings gathering visual information and exploring mark-making using simple rubbings and lines. Back in the studio, you will develop your sketches further using colour, collage and mixed media to create a unique series of drawings.

Through discerning observation, you will identify sections of your drawings you wish to translate into felt work, considering how best to interpret and execute composition, form, texture, tone, and colour.

You will first work on small experimental pieces to familiarise yourself with the process, technique, and materials, gaining deeper understanding of their properties and behaviours.

Working from your library of marks and samples, you will then work on a larger piece, gradually building your composition as you apply fibres, threads and inserts in fine layers. You will manipulate materials and textiles to develop expressive textures and tonal moods.

You will work individually but will be supported throughout by tutor demonstrations and handouts, one-to-one tutorial advice, as well as informal group discussion.

The course will include a visit to the nearby Petworth House special exhibition on Turner and Landscape on Monday morning to collect inspiration to inform your work back in the studio.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All £570.00

The basics

Booking details

Call 01243 818300

Suitability

Not suitable for children

Meeting point

West Dean College

What to bring and wear

Please see Course Materials section on the West Dean course information page.

Other

This course runs over several days. Please see the Timetable section on the West Dean course information page for more information about the daily timings. In the event of an extreme weather forecast, such as high winds, there may be changes to the course content as necessary. The College will provide transport for the visit to Petworth House.

Upcoming events

Event

Little Antlers: Wild Wednesdays 

Join us for some hands-on fun! Roll up your sleeves and dive into our crafts and activities, specially designed for our littlest visitors. These activities include make and take crafts, and may take place outdoors, so come prepared!

Event summary

on
7 May to 4 Jun 2025
at
10:30 to 11:30
+ 1 other date or time
Event

Little Antlers: Story Time 

Join us for a special story time at Petworth Park, designed specifically for toddlers aged 2 to 4 and their caregivers. Learn new stories or enjoy some classics, and afterwards take part in a ‘make and take’ crafting activity based on the book!

Event summary

on
9 May to 6 Jun 2025
at
10:30 to 11:30
+ 1 other date or time
Event

'Ben Plants a Butterfly Garden' family trail 

Ben returns to Petworth with fun games and activities throughout May half term, from Saturday 24th May until Sunday 1st June.

Event summary

on
24 May to 1 Jun 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 8 other dates or times
Event

Outdoor Theatre: Much Ado About Nothing 

Join the Handlebards for a bicycle-powered production of Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing' in the Pleasure Garden.

Event summary

on
30 May 2025
at
19:00 to 21:00