Melanie Knowles - Feltmaker - Bbohe

I’m the maker behind Bbohe, an Australian artisan brand inspired by the landscape of the Southern Tablelands and a deep appreciation for natural fibres. From my studio on our 160-hectare farm, I create felted slippers, hats and wearable art using fleece from my herd of sixty huacaya alpacas.

I fell in love with wet felting because it sits somewhere between sculpture and textiles—a wonderfully tactile medium that allows natural fibres to be shaped into objects that are both beautiful and practical. Even after many years, I still find myself discovering new possibilities.

I’m also an avid eco printer and enjoy incorporating botanical prints into my felt work and upcycled clothing. Using leaves gathered from our farm and the surrounding landscape, I create patterns that reflect the subtle beauty of Australian flora.

The Australian landscape is at the heart of everything I make. The changing seasons, native eucalyptus, rolling paddocks and the quiet rhythm of country life all influence my work. I believe handmade objects should be both beautiful and useful—pieces that bring warmth, comfort and a sense of connection to everyday life.

Many people are surprised to learn that felt is created using little more than natural fibres, warm water, olive oil soap and hours of careful handwork. Every piece is shaped, strengthened and finished entirely by hand, making each one unique.

When I’m not in the studio, you’ll usually find me in my garden, caring for our herd of alpacas, working on the farm or learning more about regenerative farming and soil health.

My hope is that when someone takes one of my pieces home, they’re taking home more than a handmade object. I hope they’re taking home a little of the warmth, beauty and quiet rhythm of life in the Southern Tablelands.