Learn the art of Norwegian skinnfell from experienced fiber artist and shepherd Becky Utecht. Norwegian skinnfell involves stitching and wood block printing on tanned sheepskins. Traditionally used as an entire family's warm bedding on cold winter nights, skinnfell traps (blankets) were made from multiple hides that were carefully stitched together and then decorated with motifs meant to convey good wishes to the receiver.
In this introductory class, you will turn a single sheepskin into a bench cover or a throw for a chair/couch. After measuring and cutting the skin, participants will decorate the skin with authentic Norwegian wood blocks, then learn how to apply traditional decorative edgings. Students have the option of skipping the cutting and the hand stitching if desired.
Students can bring a tanned sheepskin with smooth leather for crisp prints to class, or can purchase one directly from the instructor during class for $60-$75. This class requires some hand strength to stitch through layers of sheepskin (a small jewelry pliers can help with this). You may finish stitching at home.
About the Instructor: Becky Utecht
Instructor will provide the following:
- leather glover’s needle
- thread
- handout
- use of wood blocks from instructor's Norwegian wood block collection, rollers, trays, skewers, paper towels
- binder clips
Students are asked to bring:
- A soft, flexible tanned sheepskin with smooth leather for crisp prints. Students may purchase a skin from the instructor at the beginning of class for $60-$75 (cash, check, PayPal or credit card accepted). Or, students are welcome to bring their own tanned sheepskin which will be evaluated for use in class.
- small sharp scissors
- eyeglasses, if needed
- clear acrylic quilting ruler or square
- recommended: leather thimble
- optional: small jewelry pliers, favorite stamps from home, apron to protect clothing
*Instructor will bring equipment to share in class for participants unable to find all the listed items
Since your class runs over the lunch hour, we recommend you bring a lunch or click here to learn about local eating opportunities.
Skill Level
No experience required.
Age Recommendation
Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Students ages 16 and 17 may attend without a parent/guardian in attendance as long as MMFS is provided with written parental permission by email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org.
Location Details
Marine Mills Folk School
550 Pine Street
Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047
Cost Details
Tuition: $120
Materials Fee: $45(does not include sheepskin: students will pay $60-$75 in class for sheepskin if purchasing from instructor; cash, check, PayPal or credit card accepted)
Total Cost: $165
NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy HERE.
