Our third Quantock Nature Calling session took place in July, with artist Luan MacDonald leading a bird-inspired needle felting workshop.

We kicked off the morning at National Trust Coleridge Cottage with an icebreaker to get everyone energised and connected ahead of the creative session. We had a go at acting out our favourite activities and shared cultural traditions for when we meet people for the first time.

We then came together to start the needle felting session, with Luan taking us through the design process, the use of tools and materials and top tips for success. We started by drawing out our individual designs onto squares of repurposed wool blanket, taking inspiration from our previous Sankofa session and continuing discussions around birds that migrate to the Quantocks from Africa. 

Using carded wool, a barbed needle needle and a gentle stabbing motion, the fibres of the carded wool fuse with the wool blanket. Luan also showed us how to create 3D elements, blend colours and add individuality to our designs. 

In the afternoon, some of the group continued to work on their designs while others opted to go with Jon to explore some of the nature in the local area. It was a relaxing and joyful way to spend a Wednesday – thank you to everyone who came along to join us.

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Photography: Jon Barrett and Kaylee Winchcombe