Livestock
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Exploring Aberfield Sheep and Their Wool
Our Aberfield Gilly! Hiding here behind Sybil! Aberfield sheep, a relatively new breed in the world of sheep farming, have quickly gained a reputation for their excellent qualities, both in terms of meat production and wool. Developed through selective breeding, the Aberfield is a cross between Bluefaced Leicester and Texel sheep, combining the best traits…
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Brecknockshire Cheviot Sheep:
Guardians of Wales’ Wool Heritage Nestled in the heart of Wales, the Brecknockshire Cheviot sheep stand as a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage. These hardy sheep, with their distinctive appearance and resilient nature, are more than just a picturesque addition to the landscape—they are the producers of some of the finest wool in…
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Discovering Glamorgan Sheep and Their Exceptional Wool
Introduction Warburton is our Glamorgan! She is NOT named after the bread! She is named for the rugby player and this is very apt!!! If she does not want her hooves trimmed she WILL take you out!!! In the verdant landscapes of Wales, a unique breed of sheep quietly thrives, contributing to the rich tapestry…
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Exploring Kerry Hill Sheep and Their Wool
The Other half of Rambo’s breeding! Kerry Hill sheep, an iconic breed originating from the border region of England and Wales, are renowned not just for their striking appearance but also for the quality of their wool. This blog post delves into the history, characteristics, and unique attributes of Kerry Hill sheep and their wool,…
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The Valais Blacknose Sheep:
A Unique Treasure of the Swiss Alps Whilst our Rambo isnt a full Valais he has LOTS of their fabulous characteristics!! Can you spot them? The Valais Blacknose sheep, often referred to as the “world’s cutest sheep,” are a distinct breed originating from the Valais region of Switzerland. Their charming appearance, characterized by their black…
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Celebrating Native Breeds: The Rich Diversity of British Wool
Britain has a rich and varied wool heritage, with over 60 distinct sheep breeds producing an incredible range of fibre. Each breed brings something unique to the table, from the fine, soft fleece of Shetlands to the hard-wearing resilience of Welsh Mountain sheep. As a small wool producer, I’ve worked with many of these breeds…
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The Myth of the “Stupid Sheep”: Debunking a Persistent Misconception
Sheep have long been saddled with the unfortunate reputation of being dim-witted animals. They’re often caricatured as docile, thoughtless followers, blindly herding together without a shred of individual intelligence. However as someone who works closely with these gentle creatures every day, I can confidently say: this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Let’s explore…
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Wool’s Journey: From Fleece to Finished Yarn
The story of wool is one of transformation, creativity, and tradition. Every skein of yarn tells a tale, beginning with a flock of sheep grazing on the hills and fields. In this post, we’ll explore the fascinating journey that wool takes from fleece to finished yarn, with a special focus on the sustainable practices we…
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An Open Letter to British Wool: The Disenfranchisement of Small Wool Producers
Yesterday, I stepped away from the usual grind for a much-needed day of woolly shenanigans at the Wool Museum in Drefach Felindre. It was fabulous to catch up with many familiar faces, including Sascha, Jane, Michelle, Sara and Debby. The event we attended marked the launch of the Welsh Wool label and traceability scheme—a monumental…
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The Charm of Shetland Sheep and Their Remarkable Wool
Nestled in the remote Shetland Islands of Scotland, a unique breed of sheep thrives in the harsh, yet breath taking landscape. Shetland sheep, with their hardy nature and captivating history, are renowned not only for their resilience but also for their exceptional wool. This blog post delves into the allure of Shetland sheep and the…