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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From Craft Table to Sheepfold: The Evolution of My Yarn Business
What began in 2007 as a creative outlet for my out-of-control making habits—selling handmades under the name Elliefants Delights at markets in Abergavenny, Cardiff, and Newport—has grown into a full-time, slow-living, wool-growing life. From writing my first knitting patterns in 2009 to dyeing yarn over a wood fire, buying a Welsh hill farm in 2014,…
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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 Balwen Sheep and Their Unique Wool
Nestled in the rolling hills of Wales, the Balwen Welsh Mountain sheep is a breed that captivates both shepherds and fibre enthusiasts alike. Known for their distinctive markings and hardy nature, these sheep are not just a delight to the eye but also a source of unique and versatile wool. A Brief History of the…
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Discovering Torddu Sheep and Their Remarkable Wool
Sybil and Angua in my flock are two of the most friendly little girls and they are utter mischief makers! BUT why do I have them in my fibre flock?? Let’s have a look at the Torddu breed today! In the heart of Wales, a breed of sheep known as Torddu is quietly making a…
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The Charm of Beulah Sheep: A Closer Look at Their Wool
As my first ever sheep was a beautiful Beulah called Wanda and the Beulah genes are still in the flock thanks to Faith. I wanted to write a little about the Beulah wool qualities we love! Nestled in the verdant landscapes of the Welsh hills, the Beulah Speckled Face sheep are a sight to behold…
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The Versatile Llanwenog Sheep: A Heritage Breed with Exceptional Wool
The Llanwenog sheep, a charming and versatile breed hailing from the lush landscapes locally here in West Wales, is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional farming practices. Known for their hardiness, docile nature, and exceptional wool, Llanwenog sheep have become a cherished breed among farmers and wool enthusiasts alike. In this blog post,…