As part of Somerset Art Works’ ongoing project Spinning a Yarn which explores the rich heritage of Wool within Somerset, artist Gary Mills has treated members of the Online Art Group to two very special sessions introducing us to the wonderful world of felting. Using nature once again as our inspiration, we’ve had a go at needle-felting a Common Blue Damselfly and wet felting a Large Blue Butterfly, guided every step of the way by Gary and his easy to follow demonstrations. 

Wool is not only natural, renewable, biodegradable, and sustainable, but it is also an adaptable craft material. It’s been so much fun to begin to explore the exciting world of textiles and learn how some of the traditional craft techniques can be easy to access at home. If you’d like to find nature-inspired wool craft templates, along with video guides and blog posts, have a look at: www.spinning-a-yarn.org

Arts and Crafts have really been capturing public imagination in recent times, as seen with Tom Daley’s Olympic knitting and backed up by a recent survey revealing that people engaging with creating art and craft have greater ratings for happiness, life satisfaction and feeling that life was worthwhile than those who did not. This applies even after taking into account other factors known to have an impact – including age, gender, deprivation, poor health, and employment status.
We love to see our Online Art Group members sharing their creativity over on our Facebook group, however if you’d like to share your experiences of how taking part in art and crafts helps to improve your life, a wider audience can be found – The Guardian is asking for your stories! More info here

We’re back with Gary at the beginning of September, continuing his run of textiles sessions as we learn to stencil and print!

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Somerset Art Works – Online Art Group
Running throughout the year, first and third Wednesdays 6.30 – 7.30pm on Facebook Live.
Plus recordings to revisit at any time via the Facebook group page – take part at a time that suits you.
For Somerset residents – free places available (donations welcome).
New members welcome.

Remaining sessions with artist Gary Mills:
September: 04, 18
October: 2, 16
New artist from November…

Contact Emily for more information and bookings
admin@somersetartworks.org.uk