Dive into the fascinating world of wool processing in this hands-on, action-packed class! From fleece to fiber, you’ll learn the secrets of assessing raw wool like a pro, skirting, picking, and sorting with precision, and mastering the perfect washing techniques for different wool types and uses. Discover expert tips for storing wool to keep it at its best. This class is a rare opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge not easily found online, all in one place! Whether you’re a producer or buyer, get ready to unlock the full potential of wool processing in an engaging, informative experience.

Michelle Field comes from a long line of Appalachian fiber artists and was taught to do needlework before she was old enough to read. Over the past 50 years, there are few fiber arts she hasn’t become passionate about at some point. She worked her way through college as a shepherd, and since moving to Georgia nine years ago, she has returned to her love of shepherding full-time. Michelle raises a flock of endangered heritage sheep (Gulf Coast Native and Shetland) on her small hill farm. Her fiber arts specialty is sheep-to-garment processing, including spinning, dyeing, knitting, and machine knitting. A former Anthropology professor, Michelle once chased monkeys through jungles worldwide, which means she’s skilled at teaching a wide variety of subjects and remarkably hard to kill.

$0 – $30

Cost & Payment: This class is free for Georgia Sheep and Wool Growers Association (GSWGA) members and $30 for non-members. Please pay the instructor (cash, check, or PayPal) at the beginning of class.
Additional Supply Fee: None!

Registration: This class is offered by the Georgia Sheep and Wool Growers Association (GSWGA). Please email theorneryshepherd@gmail.com to sign up for the class.

Level: Open to all skill levels.

Minimum Number of Students: 1 by January 31, 2025
Maximum Number of Students: 10

Required Supplies: Pen and paper for taking notes. Additional handouts will be provided.

Class Schedule: Class will be in-person at the SEFAA Center from 10 am to 1 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025.