The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Holleth on June 17, 2015, 09:23:55 pm

Title: Where can I get my wool processed?
Post by: Holleth on June 17, 2015, 09:23:55 pm
Hi folks,

We sheared our sheep last week and as a bit of a project I'd like to follow the process of the wool, off my 3 zwartble ewes, and turn it into something.

Local people have said that it isn't worth doing it as its black but they are seeing it from a commercial point of view.

Is there anywhere I can send the fleeces to get them processed?

We are in Lancaster and I don't mind travelling (not too far) to see it being done.

Any help greatfully appreciated
Title: Re: Where can I get my wool processed?
Post by: SallyintNorth on June 17, 2015, 10:44:34 pm
Quote from: SallyintNorth on June 16, 2015, 09:31:07 am
Griffiths Mill (http://www.griffithsfarming.com/processing.html) - I've been here and seen the operation.  Karen is a spinner herself, and takes great care (and pride) in setting up the equipment just so for the fleece she is processing at the time.  If you have more fleece than you need batts, rovings or yarn for yourself, she may be prepared to market some of it through their shop - it's worth discussing with her. 

The Natural Fibre Company (http://www.thenaturalfibre.co.uk/advice-and-information).  Have a minimum quantity of 20kgs incoming per breed/type, but do have a 'matchmaking' service where they can put two similar batches together.  Output quality seems to be very good indeed, from all those I have seen and heard of.

Halifax Spinning Mill (http://www.halifaxspinningcompany.co.uk/).  Many happy customers, but I do hear the occasional grumble.
Title: Re: Where can I get my wool processed?
Post by: Bionic on June 18, 2015, 10:27:51 am
Quote from: Holleth on June 17, 2015, 09:23:55 pm
Hi folks,

We sheared our sheep last week and as a bit of a project I'd like to follow the process of the wool, off my 3 zwartble ewes, and turn it into something.

Local people have said that it isn't worth doing it as its black but they are seeing it from a commercial point of view.

Is there anywhere I can send the fleeces to get them processed?

We are in Lancaster and I don't mind travelling (not too far) to see it being done.

Any help greatfully appreciated
Holleth you could always try spinning it yourself  :spin:  Lots of TAS'ers do and its great fun
Title: Re: Where can I get my wool processed?
Post by: princesslayer on June 18, 2015, 10:42:46 am
We have a drum carder and card our wool into thick rovings that we then make a mat out of. Done on a homemade peg loom, very easy and rewarding, the kids even do it. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Where can I get my wool processed?
Post by: ewesaidit on June 18, 2015, 07:38:35 pm
Not that I can add any detail, but I have heard it's good for felting, and you can make purses/bags etc