[Dublin, IRELAND, 5th of September, 2023]

Feltmakers Ireland, an organisation dedicated to promoting and fostering the art of felting, proudly announces its 20th anniversary. Founded by President Elizabeth Bonnar in response to the growing interest in felting wool fibre in Ireland, the organisation has become a vibrant community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and skill levels.

Since its inception, Feltmakers Ireland has played a pivotal role in bringing together wet felters, needle felters, professional feltmakers, hobbyists, and anyone interested in wool, fleece, or felt. The organisation serves as a hub for education, collaboration, and the celebration of this ancient craft.

Elizabeth Bonnar, the visionary behind Feltmakers Ireland, recognised the need to establish a platform for Irish felting enthusiasts inspired by similar organisations in countries like the UK. With a deep appreciation for the rich tradition of felting, she created a space where individuals could unite, share their knowledge, and preserve this remarkable heritage.

Over the past two decades, Feltmakers Ireland has grown into a thriving community of passionate enthusiasts, artisans, and artists. The organisation offers workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions, and social events that foster creativity, skill development, and meaningful connections among members. Through its diverse range of activities, Feltmakers Ireland encourages the exploration of various felting techniques and pushes the boundaries of this versatile art form.

To mark this significant milestone, Feltmakers Ireland has planned an exciting calendar of events throughout the year. At the beginning of the year, we had our annual ‘Basics & Beyond Class’ for members to learn a new felting technique. Recently, we published a book project spearheaded by member Annika Berglund. Titled ‘Exploring Irish Wool for Feltmaking’, the book sheds light on the underutilised resource of Irish wool, and how one can create with it. On the 10th of September, members will join our monthly Sunday Session to create flowers for a Collaborative Floral Tapestry. This hanging will form a centrepiece for our celebratory 20th anniversary exhibition in October 2023. Here, members and the public alike can look forward to an engaging exhibition, ‘Bountiful’ in the Phoenix Park Visitor’s Centre, showcasing the remarkable talent within the felting community. For many years we have offered workshops and masterclasses led by renowned artists to provide valuable learning opportunities, inspiring beginners and experienced feltmakers to expand their skills and knowledge.

Feltmakers Ireland invites everyone interested in felting to join in celebrating its 20th anniversary. Whether you are a seasoned feltmaker or someone new to the craft, the organisation welcomes you to explore the world of felting and discover the joys of working with wool, fleece, and felt.

Please visit our website for more information about Feltmakers Ireland and its 20th-anniversary events. https://feltmakersireland.com

About Feltmakers Ireland: Feltmakers Ireland is a vibrant organisation dedicated to promoting the art of felting in Ireland. Established in 2003 by Elizabeth Bonnar, the organisation brings together wet felters, needle felters, professional feltmakers, hobbyists, and anyone interested in wool, fleece, or felt. Feltmakers Ireland fosters creativity, education, and community among its members through workshops, exhibitions, and social events.