Words and photos generously provided by Sheep to Shawl organizer Heather McLeod.
“Over four Sundays in June, we hosted a series of workshops that brought our community together in a unique and creative way. We learned how to turn a sheep’s poopy fleece into beautiful wool for spinning and felting, a process that not only taught us new skills but also connected us to the land and each other. Together, we discovered new words and techniques: skirt, scour, mordant, dye, tease, card, spin, and felt. Sometimes we had an experienced volunteer to guide us, while other times, we relied on our own research and experimentation. Every workshop was filled with fun, inspiration, and a sense of accomplishment.
Our 49 attendees, ranging in age from 13 to 80-something, found joy in connecting with “like- minded fibre folk.” The workshops did more than just teach a craft; they fostered a sense of community and well-being. Neighbours who may not have known each other before came together over a shared love of fiber arts, and the bonds they created were truly woven into the fabric of our neighbourhood—much like the threads in a weaving class.
After the workshops ended, many participants continued to attend weekly drop-in meet-ups to practice their spinning, felting, and weaving skills. These ongoing gatherings have become an important space for people to collaborate, share ideas, and support each other in their creative journeys. Thanks to these workshops, we now have plenty of fleece, wool, and supplies to keep us busy through the winter—and even more fibre-loving friends to visit with!
The workshops were not just a creative outlet; they were a catalyst for deeper connections and a renewed sense of community. By coming together to learn and create, we strengthened the bonds that make our neighbourhood feel like home.”
The Sheep to Shawl project received funding through the Neighbourhood Small Grants program in 2024.
