Custom Workshops

Learn the art of feltmaking with fiber artist, Sharon Costello of Black Sheep Designs. Make beautiful wearables, from sturdy boots to shear “nuno” scarves. Or create sculpted figures, masks, toys and other three dimensional fiber art. The possibilities are endless, once you master the basic techniques of feltmaking.

Here is a listing of a few of the course offerings available through Black Sheep Designs. Choose one of these, or design your own to suit your special interests. Private instruction, group instruction and pre-scheduled workshops are available.

Private Instruction
Individuals (or small groups of up to three people) can receive private instruction at Black Sheep Design’s Studio in Rensselaerville, New York. One-on-one instruction will focus on exactly what you want to learn in an environment ready-made for feltmaking.

Group Classes
One to three day workshops can be arranged, at a location of your choice, for groups of up to ten people. This is an economical and convenient way for fiber guilds and other groups to learn feltmaking.

Pre-scheduled Workshops
Each year, Black Sheep Designs hosts a number of workshops by internationally known felt artists. Check here for current offerings: Calendar of Events

Basic Class Offerings

Felting “FUN”damentals – A two day workshop covering all the basic techniques you need to create felt masterpieces back home. Learn flat feltmaking, surface design and relief, pattern making, and 3-D felt made with a resist. Bring home several samples and at least one finished project.
Bouncing Bonnets – A one day workshop covering Beth Beede’s famous and fun method for making hats on a ball. Create a beret, pill box, cloche, cap or invent your own style. Make a fashion statement in felt!
Felt Fantasies – In the one day workshop learn to make three dimensional characters using needle felting techniques. Make a gnome, mermaid, fairy, dragon... let your imagination run wild and create your own mythical creatures!
“NUNO” for the novice – This one day workshop teaches Polly Stirling’s method for creating beautifully light, drapable felt fabric. Make a “nuno” scarf or collar using silk, wool, fabric and designer yarns.
The Art of Disguise – This one day workshop teaches felt mask making. Start by felting around a ball, then stretch and shape your piece (and your imagination) into a fanciful mask. Become whomever, or whatever you want!
Footloose Felt – Make toasty warm footwear in this one day workshop. You’ll learn the 3-D resist technique that can be used to make boots, bags and broad brimmed hats at home.
Mad Hatters – This one day workshop teaches the centuries old method for making brimmed hats, but that's where the similarities end! Our creations will be thoroughly modern and unique! (Please note: this is not a beginner’s class).
“Vested” Interest – Design and felt a beautiful vest with no seams in this two day workshop. Learn how to adapt a pattern, create surface design, pockets and embellishments and full your vest to a perfect fit. This workshop can be adapted to teach either traditional or nuno felt techniques. (Please note: this is not a beginner’s class).
Rollin’ a Rug – This one or two day workshop teaches rug making techniques used for centuries in Central Asia. Because of the scope of the project participants will work in groups of three to five people per rug.
Child’s Play – Turn your kids on to this wonderfully tactile art form. They can make a felt ball, jewelry, doll hats, a bag, a puppet and more. Great for 4-H and other kids clubs. (Can be designed as a full or a half day workshop)

*You can mix and match various classes to schedule a two or three day workshop series to suit your needs. Or you can design your own workshop. Call and let me know your needs.

Workshop Fees and Facilities
There is an instruction fee plus travel, meals and lodging where applicable. Materials fees vary depending on the workshop content, but usually run about $20.00 per person. Please e-mail Sharon for current rates. The most economical method is to host a group workshop. A maximum of ten students can be accommodated per class. Those wishing to host a workshop must arrange for a suitable workshop location with large tables, running hot water, electricity and, preferably, no carpeting. If you wish to hold your group workshop in Rensselaerville, a facility rental fee will be added. There is no facility fee for private instruction at Black Sheep Designs Studio.