Around 6 years ago I was horrified by the waste and destruction of fleece from commercial flocks. We have a few acres of land and have always produced our own vegetables and love this place where we have lived for over 40 years. I now have a small flock of mixed heritage sheep and I grow plants for natural dyes.
Culrossyarn.co.uk has become a small family enterprise with the main aim of promoting pure, naturally dyed wool and knitted items.
Having been involved with the Fibreshed core group for over a year I get huge support from knowing there are many people who value the same things as I do. They are also very interesting people with a vast range of skills.
There have been several opportunities where, with the support of the group, I have been able to participate in activities that I would not otherwise have done. One example is Go Falkland where the FSS group is actively positioning textiles within the regen farming discussion.
The Fibreshed values serve as a good reminder that I need to do more than simply produce. That looking after the soil and thinking about inclusivity is vital. Some aspects are challenging but this is where having a group that has regular discussions is very helpful in generating a better and a common understanding.