Spinning With Natural Fibres

We are very excited to welcome shepherd and weaver Bec Briar, aka The Woven Briar, to share some of her considerable skills and knowledge with us. The choices we make around textiles and clothing can have more of an environmental impact than we sometimes realise, so we are looking forward to learning a different way of doing things from a local smallholder and maker. You can choose between high quality, high welfare fleeces from Bec's small local flock of native breed sheep, or plant fibres such as nettle. We will use home made wooden drop spindles, crafted at Bec's smallholding on the edge of Exmoor. Using drop spindles is one of the oldest and simplest forms of spinning yarns and they are simple to master. While we are spinning we can talk about the benefits of using wool and other natural fibres, for the environment as well as for our health. Bec can share details about her flock and how they are blade shorn for welfare and fleece quality. You will finish the day with your own ball of home made, hand spun yarn to take home with you. Learn more about the sheep on facebook and instagram at @thewovenbriar. Funds raised will go towards paying our spinning expert fairly for her time and materials, and supporting the work of The Earth Repair Shop so we can spinning a greener future for Ilfracombe! All materials provided on the day, and we will take a short refreshment break midway with the option of pre-ordering hot drinks and delicious vegan cakes from the lovely hand:plant cafe and gallery across the road should you choose. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks and flasks.