Meet the sheep!
Behind each of my wool creations lies a long history shaped by sheep, landscape, and tradition.
For thousands of years, sheep have been bred and cared for in response to their surroundings—adapting to local climates, terrain, and ways of life. Their wool has provided warmth and protection, but also played a role in shaping everyday textiles and cultural traditions.
Working with wool is therefore more than a material choice. It is a connection to generations of knowledge—from shepherding and shearing to spinning and weaving. Each fleece carries something of the land it comes from, and of the people who have learned how to work with it over time.
In that sense, wool remains a living link between nature, tradition, and human creativity.
Shetland
Shetland sheep are one of Britain’s oldest native breeds, shaped over centuries by the rugged landscape of the Shetland Islands.
Small, hardy, and remarkably adaptable, they produce a fine, soft fleece in a wide range of natural colours. Their wool reflects the conditions they live in—light, warm, and resilient.
I am particularly drawn to Shetland wool for its softness and versatility. It brings a gentle warmth and subtle texture to my woven pieces.
Gotland
Gotland sheep originate from the Swedish island of Gotland and are known for their distinctive curly fleece.
Their wool has a soft sheen and a beautiful drape, making it especially suited to textiles that combine structure with fluidity.
I often use Gotland wool to introduce depth and contrast, both visually and in texture.
whitefaced woodland
The Whitefaced Woodland is a traditional upland breed from northern England, closely tied to the landscapes of the Pennines.
Its wool is strong and characterful, with a slightly coarser texture that adds structure and durability.
I value this fibre for the balance it brings—grounding softer wools and adding strength to the overall weave.
Faroe Island
Faroe Island sheep are among the oldest and most distinctive sheep populations in Europe, shaped by the windswept landscapes of the North Atlantic.
Their wool is slightly denser and full of character, with a natural variation that adds depth to woven textiles.
Although not strictly British, they feel closely connected—sharing a similar northern environment and heritage.
I am particularly fond of this wool for the texture and individuality it brings to each piece.
Teesdale
Teesdale sheep are a distinctive longwool breed from the north of England, known for their strength and character.
Their fleece has a beautiful structure and presence, with a slightly coarser texture that adds depth and definition to a woven piece.
I value Teesdale wool for the way it brings contrast and texture, helping to create textiles with a more sculptural feel.
Wensleydale
Wensleydale sheep are easily recognised by their long, lustrous fleece, with soft ringlets and a natural sheen.
Their wool has a gentle drape and a silky quality that catches the light, making it particularly striking in woven textiles.
I often use Wensleydale to introduce texture adding a distinctive character to the fabric.
Bluefaced Leicester
Bluefaced Leicester is one of Britain’s most refined longwool breeds, prized for its exceptional softness and smooth, even fibres.
Its wool creates a clean, soft base within a weave, bringing warmth without heaviness.
I am particularly drawn to it for its softness and its warm, creamy tones, which work beautifully with undyed natural palettes.
Suffolk
Suffolk sheep are one of Britain’s best-known breeds, valued for their strength and adaptability.
Their wool is more robust and textured, offering a solid, grounding quality within a woven piece.
I use Suffolk wool where I want to introduce structure and durability, balancing softer fibres and adding substance to the overall fabric.