Skinnfell – Block Printed Sheepskin Mittens

Join Becky Utecht and Sue Flanders for a day of creating a pair of cozy wool sheepskin mittens using skinnfell techniques. Skinnfell is the Norwegian art of embellishing a tanned sheepskin into a beautiful decorative or wearable object through stitched and finished edges, printed with wooden block stamps. Students will learn about the history of this traditional craft while using a pattern to cut the sheepskin and printing it with patterned stamps. Special attention will be given to the use of the instructors’ Norwegian print blocks and the symbolism of different patterns intended to bring goodwill to the user. Then, students will stitch the sheepskin and apply a decorative seam covering to finish their mittens. Though there will be time in class to finish, students are also welcome to complete the final stitching at home.

Students may also be interested in an additional day-long course to print and sew a skinnfell hat on Sunday, February 1. For students registering for both classes, the materials fee is discounted by 25% ($30).

Prerequisites:

Physical ability: To complete this project students need some hand strength and flexibility, as sewing leather is more difficult than cloth.

Skill level: Open to all skill levels.

Ages: Suitable for ages 18+.

Tools & Materials:

A $60 materials fee covers tanned sheepskin for one pair of mittens, pattern instructions, thread, needles, clips, and use of wood blocks and paint. Students are encouraged to bring a leather thimble and small jewelry pliers, if possible, as these are helpful for sewing leather.

For students registered for both the Skinnfell hat and Skinnfell mittens class, there is a 25% discount ($30) off the total materials fee, as students can use the same piece of sheepskin for both projects. If you take both classes, the materials fee is $90 for both days.