Seven days of hands-on needle-felting instruction with Teresa Perleberg, creating your own realistic lion sculpture.

All wool and felting supplies needed to complete your Safari lion are provided.

Delicious meals prepared by Chef Libbie throughout the retreat.

A visit to our sheep farm, opportunities to explore the Sheyenne River Valley, and time to connect with fellow felters.

Seven nights at Rockstad River Inn are included with designated all-inclusive packages. Guests choosing the workshop-and-meals package arrange their own lodging.

Group transportation for planned Safari activities. Airport transfers are available separately.

The 2027 Lion Safari is designed for people who already have some needle-felting experience. You don't need to be an expert, but you should be comfortable creating basic three-dimensional shapes and joining pieces together.

If you're newer to needle felting, I recommend completing a few of my kits or following projects in the Bear Creek Needle Felting Academy before attending.

I'll guide you through creating your lion step by step, so don't let the complexity of the finished sculpture intimidate you. This is an opportunity to challenge yourself, learn new techniques, and grow your skills!

Don't let the lion intimidate you! One of my favorite parts of Safari is watching participants surprise themselves with what they can accomplish.

We'll work through the project together, step by step, and I'll be there to demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and help whenever you need it.

You don't need to know how to sculpt a lion before you arrive. That's what we're here to learn! As long as you have some needle-felting experience and are comfortable with the basics, you'll have a wonderful opportunity to build your skills and confidence.

We'll spend several hours each day working on our lions, with plenty of time for demonstrations, individual guidance, and questions.

But Safari is about more than needle felting! We'll also enjoy delicious meals together, visit my sheep farm, explore the beautiful Sheyenne River Valley, and make time for a little relaxation and fun.

I like to keep our schedule flexible so everyone can work at a comfortable pace. Some participants enjoy felting during their free time, too!

Absolutely! One of the reasons I keep my Safari retreats small is so I can give everyone plenty of personal attention.

I'll demonstrate each step of creating our lions, and then you'll have time to work on your own sculpture while I move around the room, offering guidance, answering questions, and helping you with any challenges along the way.

Everyone works at a slightly different pace, and that's perfectly fine! My goal is for you to leave with not only a lion you're proud of, but also new skills and the confidence to tackle future projects on your own.

Absolutely! In fact, many of my Safari guests arrive without knowing anyone else, and by the end of the week, they leave with wonderful new friends.

One of my favorite things about hosting these retreats is watching friendships develop over our shared love of needle felting. Between working on our projects, enjoying meals together, and exploring the beautiful Sheyenne River Valley, there are plenty of opportunities to get to know one another.

Our small group makes it easy to feel included, and you'll quickly discover that you have something in common with everyone in the room.

Don't hesitate to come on your own. You'll be among friends!

Just bring yourself, your enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn! I'll provide all the wool, needles, and other supplies you'll need to create your Safari lion.

I recommend packing comfortable clothing, including layers for North Dakota's changing weather, and sturdy walking shoes for our farm visit and outdoor activities.

You're welcome to bring your favorite felting tools if you have them, but it's certainly not necessary.

If you're staying in one of the yurts or cabins at Fort Ransom State Park, be sure to check what your accommodations provide. Some require you to bring your own bedding and towels.

I'll send additional information before the retreat so you'll know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies whenever possible!

My daughter Libbie prepares our Safari meals, and she puts a lot of thought and care into creating delicious, homemade food for everyone to enjoy.

If you have food allergies, sensitivities, or special dietary needs, please let us know well before the retreat so we can discuss your requirements and plan accordingly.

We want everyone to feel comfortable, well-fed, and ready for another wonderful day of felting!

A deposit is required at registration to reserve your place at the 2027 Lion Safari. The deposit amount depends on the package you select.

The remaining balance is due 30 days before your retreat begins.

For the August 4–11 Safari, your final payment is due July 5, 2027.

For the September 1–8 Safari, your final payment is due August 2, 2027.

We'll send you a reminder with payment instructions before your balance is due.

I understand that sometimes plans change! Here's how our cancellation policy works:

• Your deposit is non-refundable because it reserves your place at Safari.
• 30 days or more before the retreat: You'll receive a refund of any payments made beyond your deposit.
• Less than 30 days before the retreat: Unfortunately, refunds are not available.
• If Bear Creek Felting cancels the retreat: You'll receive a full refund of all payments made, including your deposit.

If you're unable to attend, you may transfer your registration to another person by contacting me at teresa@bearcreekfelting.com.

Because travel plans can sometimes be interrupted by illness or unexpected circumstances, I strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

Don't give up hope! If your preferred Safari session is full, I encourage you to join our waitlist.

Occasionally, plans change and a spot becomes available. When that happens, I'll contact people on the waitlist to offer the opportunity to register.

You can also check availability for our other Safari week. Both sessions feature the same lion project, instruction, and wonderful Safari experience.

I'd love to have you join us!

There's always something new to learn, no matter how long you've been needle felting!

Throughout the week, I'll share the techniques I've developed over years of sculpting animals, including how I approach proportions, facial expressions, shaping, and adding realistic details.

You'll have the opportunity to ask questions, refine your skills, and explore techniques you may not have tried before.

I also find that we learn so much from one another. Having a room full of creative people sharing ideas, solving challenges, and encouraging each other is one of the things I love most about Safari.

And of course, there's something wonderful about setting aside an entire week to immerse yourself in a craft you love, without all the distractions of everyday life!