Helen Coxan : feltmaker

I have been making felt for about 3 years, after seeing some fantastic work created by children in Scotland. I love the feel of the wool, the glorious colours that it can be dyed, and the magical way in which a feltwork develops.

I enjoy making bags and abstract wallhangings as well as using the flexibility and strength of handmade felt to explore sculptural form. I embellish much of my work with beads and stitch and also use needle felting techniques to further develop the texture and surface appearance.

I originally trained as a primary school teacher, and now spend my time looking after my kids, working in the family business in Slaithwaite, West Yorkshire, and feltmaking whenever possible.

If you like my work why not come along to a feltmaking workshop and learn how to do it yourself?

Each of my felt pieces is unique and is made by hand from natural materials, giving the finished products strength and beauty.

I use sheep's wool as the main fibre in my felt. It is naturally soft,very strong and longlasting. There are numerous varieties of wool, each with a unique set of characteristics that bring something different to the finished felt.

In addition I use silk and other fibres to add colour, richness and variation.