Felted Story Mat Workshop
Visiting Artist-Textiles | Available
Storytelling and play have a special relationship - each supports the other. Retelling stories in play or creating new ones, allows children to become "storymakers" - making stories come to life. As children practice their stories, their oral language skills develop and literacy is enhanced. Story mats are inspired by nature, as well as the Waldorf, Reggio Emilia and Montessori traditions, and created for open-ended play.
In this workshop, you will create a rounded or square playmat (12-14 inches) as a foundation for story telling and imaginative play. Using wool and other fibers we will create a landscape with features like forests, beaches, paths, ponds or rivers, caves and more. We will use wet felting techniques to create a sturdy playmat that will stand up to many years of creative play.
Perfect holiday gift. All materials included. Ages 14+.
Alice Shupe
I have been felting with wool and other natural fibers for ten years. I love the tactile quality of felting, the many textures and effects that can be achieved with different fibers, and the surprise with each project as the fibers entangle and shrink. I primarily use wet felting techniques but will often embellish my work with needle felting and stitching. As with any artistic endeavor, mine continues to be a journey of experimenting and learning. I am thankful for the generous spirits of other fiber artists who share their talents and enable me to keep growing as an artist and teacher. Please visit www.sheepinatree.com for more information about what I do!