In light of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, Fabric of Life has made the difficult decision to cancel all in-person events for the remainder of 2020. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to being together with you all again very soon, virtually for now, hopefully in person in the near future.

Instructor: Angela Robins

Angela Robins is an educator and woodworker, inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese traditions. From axe carving to woodturning on the lathe, she works primarily with freshly cut wood, or green wood. She has studied woodworking in Japan, Norway, Sweden, and for two years as a resident in the artisan development program at North House Folk School in Grand Marais, Minnesota. In 2015 she received a Minnesota State Arts Board Folk & Traditional Crafts grant to study Scandinavian wooden bowl turning. She also teaches the ancient fabric construction technique known as nålbinding to fiber artists and traditional crafts enthusiasts alike. To see images of her work and learn more about her process, please visit www.angelarobins.com.

Program Description

Nålbinding is an ancient form of fabric construction that dates back to the Iron and Bronze Ages and was used in many regions of the world. For hundreds of years, Scandinavians have used nålbinding techniques to make hats, socks, milk strainers and mittens. The tools are simple: a single needle with an eye, and yarn that can be felted. In this class, students will learn the Oslo and Korgen stitches and how to nålbind in the round while crafting a custom cowl. We will discuss yarn selection for future projects and fulling methods for finishing. Yarn is not included in the materials fee; students should supply their own.

Students can purchase yarn from the instructor or purchase it ahead of time. Yarn should be 100% wool, bulky, and single-ply. Great options include: Lamb’s Pride Bulky (100g/125yds) and Alafoss Lopi (100g/109yds).

Materials fee includes handmade nålbinding needle, practice yarn and handouts

If you have any questions, please contact us at office@fabric-of-life.org.