Learn the art of needle felting with Ingrid van der Molen. Wool felt may be the oldest textile in the world. It has been made by hand for thousands of years. Needle felting or needle punching came about in the 1800s using machines to mass produce products during the industrial revolution. This workshop explores the innovative artform of needle felting by hand which allows makers to produce textiles, accessories or artworks without the use of machines. In this introductory workshop, you will gain an understanding and appreciation of the creative possibilities of this fibre art form. Discover the basic techniques involved in needle felting with an emphasis on the safe use of felting needles. You will use different gauges and types of needles throughout the process. The workshop will cover how to identify which natural fibres are most suitable for your project, how to choose, prepare and blend fibres and how to manipulate and shape fibre into a work of art. Held at Ballarat's Australian Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, a world-class facility dedicated to learning and preserving Australia’s rare arts and trades through a series of workshops, masterclasses, events, and residencies.