It’s that time of year! Fleece is in the air and we’re so excited to have our 2025 Icelandic fall shearing scheduled! We’re able to share this experience with you if you’re interested.
If you'd like to join us, PLEASE review the details below first so you know what to expect and what the expectations are of you, as this isn't just an open farm day. Please email us here so we can send you additional important information.
Shearing is work. There is a level of efficiency that we strive for so that the animals go through the least amount of stress, along with the shearer. We try to get through it as quickly as possible, and it feels very production-line-esque. We have 27 animals to shear this time around (woohoo!) including lambs, and they'll be shorn by the amazing Pony Jacobson of @sugarfieldfarm. You may recognize him from the @laine_magazine Issue 19 - we're so lucky to be able to have him take care of our flock in this way.
What you get:
- A real-life shearing experience! Pony will be providing a mini demonstration, explaining what he's doing and answering some questions.
- First pick of raw fleeces for hand-spinning. The lamb fleeces are particularly stunning this year.
- Q&A from the shepherd during the entire process
What you give:
This experience is essentially a work-trade. Participants will be expected to help skirt fleece (which we will lead) or help with a step of the shearing process. This may include cleaning, sweeping, etc. You're welcome to come and just watch, but we request that you bring a $10 donation to the farm. This helps us pay our shearer for the demo.
Additional info:
- You must wear pants and close-toed shoes, as a matter of safety. There will be a bleach pan if you have worn your shoes on other farms, for biosecurity.
- You'll be on your feet a bunch.
- You do not have to come for the whole day!
- There will be NO animal handling, other than the occasional petting, before or after the shearing. Participants will get to handle raw fleece, however!
- Shearing will take place in our barn.