(SOLD OUT) Skinnfell – Block Printed Sheepskin Hat

Join Becky and Sue for a day of creating a warm and woolly sheepskin hat 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 cutting and printing the sheepskin with the provided 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, cover the seams, and finish the hem to create a unique and personally meaningful hat. Although there will be time in class to complete it, students may want to finish the final stitching at home. This class provides a comprehensive overview of this craft, offering many decorative and practical applications for future projects.

Students may also be interested in an additional day-long course to print and sew skinnfell mittens on Saturday, January 31. For students registering for both classes, there is a 25% discount on the materials fee for both. 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+. A $60 materials fee covers tanned sheepskin for one hat, leather cutter’s needle, thread, hat pattern, instructional handout, use of wood blocks and paint, and other necessary supplies. Students are also encouraged to bring a leather thimble and 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.