Nottingham: Felting Workshop

Imagine spending an afternoon exploring touch, color, and texture in a way that challenges the notion that art is only to be seen. This Nottingham Felting Workshop offers exactly that, blending creativity with heart in a cozy home studio run by a talented artist with a visual impairment. For about 2.5 hours, you’ll craft your own felted item—be it a bowl, a bag, or a felted heart—using 100% wool and natural oils, all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guidance by a visually impaired artist who emphasizes feeling and intuition over sight, which truly transforms how we think about creating art. Second, the small group size (limited to 6 participants) means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a warm atmosphere—perfect for couples or small groups looking for something a bit different.

A potential consideration is the accessibility of the studio. While the workshop is held in a tranquil garden studio, it involves a few steps and uneven surfaces, so those with mobility concerns might need to evaluate if this experience suits them.

This workshop is ideal for creative souls eager to try something tactile and meaningful, or anyone interested in sensory art and new ways to connect with their environment. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate authentic, handcrafted works and enjoy engaging in artistic processes that emphasize personal expression over technical perfection.

Key Points

• Unique Sensory Approach: Led by a visually impaired artist, focusing on touch and intuition.
• All Materials Included: You’ll craft a personal felted piece using organic wool, essential oils, and storytelling.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.
• Location: Held in a warm home studio with a garden in Nottingham, with free street parking nearby.
• Duration & Flexibility: About 2.5 hours, with start times varying based on availability.
• Ideal For: Couples, small groups, art lovers interested in tactile creativity and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of Connecting Through Touch in Nottingham

The Nottingham Felting Workshop is more than just a craft class; it’s an invitation to see art through a different lens—literally. Led by a talented artist who lives with visual impairment, this experience is designed to broaden your perspective on what art can be. We loved how the workshop promotes sensory engagement, encouraging you to explore wool fibers, textures, and colors without relying on sight.

Upon arriving at the private garden studio in Giltbrook, you immediately sense the warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is cozy, decorated with colorful felting works and natural elements that inspire creativity. The setup is intimate, which allows for personal interaction with the artist—an essential feature since storytelling and sharing her journey living with visual impairment are part of the experience.

What’s truly compelling is the focus on feeling and intuition. Instead of traditional painting or drawing, you’ll be guided on how to craft organic shapes and forms by touch. The artist encourages you to experiment freely, which often results in surprisingly beautiful pieces. One participant remarked, “It’s so different from other workshops because it’s not about perfect technique; it’s about feeling your way and making something meaningful.”

The process involves choosing your preferred item—be it a bowl, a bag, or a felted heart—and then assembling wool fibers into your desired shape. The addition of essential oils not only enhances the sensory experience through scent but also leaves your creation smelling lovely long after you leave. The use of storytelling by the artist adds depth, sharing how she navigates her artistic journey and challenges our assumptions about visual impairment and art.

Throughout the session, you’ll find the pace relaxed and encouraging. The facilitator creates a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable exploring textures, experimenting with colors, and simply enjoying the act of making. As one review put it, “You don’t need experience, just a willingness to touch and feel.”

In terms of value, paying for a 2.5-hour session that includes all materials, a personal handmade item, refreshments, and the chance to hear an artist’s story makes this a truly meaningful experience. It offers more than just a craft; it’s an exploration of sensory perception and personal creativity.

Detailed Breakdown of the Workshop Experience

The Location and Setting

Held in a cosy home studio with a garden in Nottingham, the environment instantly feels welcoming. The studio is accessible by free street parking and is reachable by local bus. While there are some steps and uneven surfaces, the space’s intimate nature fosters a sense of community and focus—ideal for those who enjoy small, private gatherings.

The Artistic Process

The workshop begins with a brief introduction from the artist, who shares her story and explains how art can be felt, not just seen. She emphasizes that no prior experience is necessary, which reassures newcomers. You’ll then be guided through the process step-by-step—selecting your base form, then adding wool fibers while exploring its textures and colors.

Participants especially enjoy the hands-on aspect, feeling the wool’s softness and experimenting with different textures. The addition of essential oils adds a multisensory layer, making the act of creating truly immersive. The workshop fosters a sense of discovery as well as creation, encouraging spontaneous expression.

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What You Make

Your final product will be a personal, organic felted item—a bowl, a bag, or a felted heart—each one unique. These items are not only artistic keepsakes but also functional objects with a story behind them. Many participants find it satisfying to craft something meaningful and tangible, which they can take home as a reminder of the experience.

The Artistic Guidance and Storytelling

The artist’s personal story adds a compelling dimension. Her approach challenges the idea that art is only for the eyes, highlighting how touch, scent, and storytelling can be powerful tools of expression. Participants often comment on how inspiring it is to see her turn her visual impairment into a creative strength.

The Atmosphere

The overall ambiance is relaxed and friendly—perfect for small groups or couples wanting a quiet, creative escape. The provision of tea and biscuits keeps the mood light and sociable, encouraging conversations and shared laughter as everyone works on their projects.

The Value and Who Will Love It

While the price may seem modest for a 2.5-hour, all-inclusive art session, the real value lies in the unique sensory approach and personal connection. You’re not just making a felted object; you’re gaining insights into a different way of experiencing art.

This workshop is especially appealing to those who value authentic, handcrafted work, or anyone curious about how art can be experienced with all senses. It’s suitable for couples seeking a memorable shared activity, small groups wanting something creative and different, or solo travelers eager for a meaningful encounter with local culture.

However, if you have mobility issues or require full wheelchair access, it’s worth noting the studio involves some steps and uneven surfaces. It’s best to contact the experience provider beforehand to confirm accessibility options.

The Sum Up

The Nottingham Felting Workshop offers an authentic, heartfelt experience that expands your understanding of art. Guided by a talented artist who turns her visual impairment into a source of inspiration, you’ll create a personal felted piece in a warm, inviting space. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to explore tactile art, enjoy a cozy atmosphere, and learn from a story that challenges perceptions.

This experience is perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers seeking something meaningful and different from typical sightseeing. You’ll leave with a handcrafted keepsake and a new appreciation for how art can be felt, smelled, and experienced beyond sight.

If you’re curious about sensory creativity or want to support an artist with a powerful story, this workshop will not disappoint. It’s an honest, engaging, and genuinely enriching activity—one that makes you think twice about how we experience and create art.

FAQs

How long is the workshop?
The session lasts approximately 2.5 hours, but this can vary slightly depending on which item you choose to felt.

Where does the workshop take place?
It’s held at a private home studio in the Giltbrook area of Nottingham. The full address is provided after booking.

Are materials included?
Yes, all art materials and tools needed are provided, along with natural oils for scenting your creation.

Can I bring a group?
Yes, the workshop is designed for small groups with a maximum of six participants, making it ideal for intimate gatherings.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old, mainly due to the nature of materials and space.

What about accessibility?
The studio includes some steps and uneven surfaces, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for crafting and potentially getting a bit of wool or oil on your hands is recommended.

This Nottingham felting workshop combines creativity, storytelling, and sensory exploration into a memorable experience. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast or simply looking for something authentic and different, it promises a meaningful connection to art—and to yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: