Introduction to Nalbinding

Nålbinding is a fiber looping technique that is widely seen across the continents, centuries, and ages of technological development. The earliest nålbinding piece discovered thus far dates back 10,000 years predating knitting and crocheting by 7,000 years. The technique was widely used during the Viking era to create warm, dense garments and accessories that would withstand hard, prolonged use on the open seas, and provide warmth when wet, as well as to create more delicate wearables. The craft is alive and well in Scandinavia and other areas today, and there are artists and historical re-enactment enthusiasts worldwide who are passionate about preserving this ancient technique. If you are looking for a new challenge and are passionate about preserving and nurturing ancient fiber art techniques, nålbinding may open a whole new world of creativity for you. Skål! This workshop is capped at seven students for individualized instruction and one-on-one initial orientation to the technique. Material covered will include a brief history; yarn and needle choices; yarn joining; starting and ending; step-by-step guided instructions for mastering up to 5 basic stitches, and more. Prior needle art experience/understanding of any needle art technique is required.