November held family responsibilities, so other than a weekend low-key craft show here in Tampa, I haven't done much since then... til this week. The studio is all set up for my Christmas Open Studio sessions (if you're in Tampa, come by! come by!) and even better, you can just drop in for one or several 4 hour sessions. (Thurs nights, 5-9, Saturdays Noon to 4. see the website for more info.) Music! Munchies! Making things! For me, Christmas has always been about making things, ornaments, decorations, gifts. We made sequin balls for the tree, still have some. Didn't everyone grow up like that?
To continue that tradition, I have some prefelts and patterns that will make 8-10 tree ornaments (also great as pins or strung on ribbon as garland) that are really cute and fast to do, and especially great for complete beginners. I've also developed some "ready to roll" projects, based on Chad's seamless techniques. I've got 4 patterns ( see three of them below) with the fleece already laid out and they are ready to decorate and wet down and roll! All you felters know that laying out the fleece takes most the time, so I am keeping your busy holiday schedules in mind. These are good for experienced felters and beginners who want to try more than small items. And of course, hats, purses, and a variety of other patterns and wools await those who like to start from scratch.
I met several new Tampa folks at the show in November (Made by Hand, put on by the City of Tampa) that didn't give me email addresses but expressed interest in classes next year. I might be able to schedule a weekend workshop for beginners at Taylor Art Studio in Seminole Heights in February, or I might schedule one at my studio in South Tampa. Please get in touch if you are interested, or keep an eye on this blog or my website for class announcements.
