Prairie Pouches: Wet-Felted Snack Bags Inspired by Nature

In this hands-on fiber arts class, students will explore the fundamentals of wet felting while creating a functional wool snack pouch or lunch bag. Using warm water, soap, and steady pressure, we’ll transform loose fibers into dense felt, learning how to layer wool, use flat resists to build structure with pockets, and shape the piece into a soft yet sturdy container. We’ll pay close attention to how wool shrinks, how colors blend, and how to create clean, intentional forms.

Because this class takes place in June, we’ll draw inspiration from Minnesota’s early-summer landscape — berry hues, fresh greens, florals, and warm earth tones. A wide range of wool and silk fibers reflecting these seasonal colors will be provided.

The class is beginner-friendly and rooted in a calm, nature-connected atmosphere, with room for personal experimentation in palette, size, and the shape of pockets or compartments. Participants will leave with a finished felted pouch or lunch bag ready for picnics, trail snacks, farmers’ market mornings, or everyday use, along with a solid understanding of wet-felting techniques they can continue exploring at home.

About the Instructor: Jules Bunch

Instructor will provide the following:

wool and silk fibers, resists, olive oil soap, scissors, sprinklers, felting tools

Students are asked to bring:

• Two towels: a bath or beach towel plus a hand towel (or larger).

• You are encouraged to bring a snack, both for a short break during class and as inspiration for the pouch or lunch bag you’ll be designing!

Skill Level 

No experience required. 

Age Requirement 

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 St.

Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Cost Details

Tuition: $65

Materials Fee: $25

Total Cost: $90

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.