Workshop: Make a Needle Felted Animal

In this introductory workshop, you are encouraged to move away from ready-made kits to design and make your own animal character using wire, wool and scrap fabrics.

You’ll start by sketching your favourite animals inspired by Wes Anderson's films such as 'Isle of Dogs' and 'Fantastic Mr Fox', or by drawing your pets or imagined characters. With basic technical drawing skills and guidance provided by the facilitator, you will then translate your design into a three-dimensional form.

You will learn how to build a wire structure for your figure, and cover it with thin layers of natural wool and colourful scrap fabrics using needle felting techniques to bring your character to life.

Throughout the session, you’ll work at your own pace in a relaxed environment, receiving feedback and support as you work on your design. By the end of the workshop you will have a unique felted creation to take home.

A visit to our 5-star exhibition, Wes Anderson: The Archives is included in your ticket price so you can visit at your own time before or after the workshop.

Learning outcomes:

• Shaping 2D drawings into 3D forms using basic technical drawings and scale

• Making a small wire armature to support and pose your creation

• Explore needle felting techniques

Please note:

• Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment

• All equipment, materials and light refreshments will be provided

• This workshop is suitable for adults 18+

• This workshop is for participants aged 18 and over, and the content has been designed with adult learners in mind. 

• If there’s anything we can do to help you take part, whether it’s around mobility, sensory access, mental health, communication preferences, or anything else, you’re welcome to share this with us at ticket checkout. This is entirely optional, and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. 

• You're also welcome to bring a companion if you'd benefit from 1:1 support during the workshop. Companion places are free; please email DMAcademy@designmuseum.org with your booking information so we can reserve your spot. 

• This session is led by up to two facilitators and has a capacity of 20 participants.

• If you have any questions, or would prefer to chat to someone directly, get in touch with us at DMAcademy@designmuseum.org. We’ll do our best to support you.

Background image by Madeleine Famurewa.