Felting rooted in nature
- Beatrice's artistic felting process is inspired by nature and animals
- She uses wool from heritage sheep breeds and other animals for eco-friendly textiles
- Since 2025, she has been exploring natural plant dyes in a botanical garden lab
Beatrice Waanders is a recognised Dutch feltmaking artist who works with heritage sheep and repurposed wool. Originally trained in interior architecture and material design at the Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam, her passion for textiles emerged while working on embassy interiors. Beatrice is drawn to the organic nature of wool, and she developed her own felting techniques, mainly using wool from Dutch heritage sheep and old European breeds. Her pieces, known for their purity and softness, are commissioned by interior decorators, architects and prestigious brands. She has worked on large-scale public art and in collaboration projects with designers, including John Galliano for Maison Margiela, and for Rihanna, for whom she created a cape. Beatrice's art embodies slow design and a deep respect for the environment. Her felting involves working with ethically-processed wool, which, since 2008, she has not dyed to produce her works.
Interview
- What natural materials do you work with?
- I source wool directly from heritage sheep flocks that promote biodiversity. All my pieces are handmade, chemical-free, undyed and animal-friendly. I also repurpose wool and hair from alpacas, goats and angora rabbits kept as pets, preventing waste while respecting animals and the environment.
- What has been the most memorable project you worked on?
- The 70-metre long Sheep in the City installation at The Hague’s city hall, suspended 50 metres high in a modern glass atrium. Made from a local sheep flock’s wool, it echoed the building’s transparency while contrasting its hard materials with soft, natural textures. The piece aimed to bring nature into the city and inspire people to explore the nearby dunes.
- What is the nicest compliment you received about your work?
- The best compliments come from those who feel the calming softness of my work. A family once told me that their teenage children were initially hesitant about lying on their wool rug, but will now always find them on it. Many say my masterclasses feel like yoga for the mind. I love hearing that my pieces bring warmth and a sense of nature into people’s lives.
- What do you hope the future has in store for you?
- I look forward to continuing my work in nature. I am building a sustainable home and studio in Drenthe, near the sheep flocks, and currently exploring natural plant dyes and running tests in a botanical garden. Moving to the countryside feels like coming home, bringing peace and inspiration for my work.
Beatrice Waanders is a master artisan: she began her career in 2008 and she started teaching in 2010
Works
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Beatrice Waanders
