Fiber College of Maine Touchstone Workshop: September 4-8

Wool is a very versatile, warm, and comforting natural fiber. It grows like hair on sheep and is periodically harvested for the health of the sheep as well as the by-product of its insulating fiber. Throughout history, sheep have been bred to demonstrate desirable characteristics. Wool resulting from this selective breeding can vary from fine and soft to coarse and durable. In this retreat, we will conduct a hands-on breed study comparing fibers from 16 different sheep breeds, and then take the wool through different processes to create a luxurious garment.

Working with wool engages our senses in a visual and tactile adventure. We will embark on a learning journey that will take us from meeting the sheep, learning about breed and wool qualities; and on to the sorting, cleaning, and spinning processes; followed by dying and weaving with wool yarns to reflect the colors and textures of September.

While learning technical skills, we will create elegant weavings with unique color ways and textures. Our work will be inspired by the animals themselves, the abundant gardens of surrounding the studio, and the natural beauty of Mid-Coast Maine. During the retreat, each participant will create a woven shawl on a floor loom using their own hand painted yarn and one of the twill draft designs offered. The resulting creations will celebrate your unique sense of color, texture, design and inspiration.

Class and Retreat Fee: $980.00

Materials fee: $175

the materials fee includes: 1-lb of fleece - $24 (1-oz each: 16 breeds), Dyes: $6,  Workbook: $15,  Warp: $50; Weft: $40 + $30 labor for winding warp