Across the UK there are thousands of small flocks of sheep, happily grazing on plots of land up and down the country, from the highlands and islands of Scotland to the lowlands of southern England. These flocks are looked after by smallholders, farmers and shepherds who often have flocks of native or rare breeds of sheep, conserving breeds that are at risk of extinction. These breeds are often specifically adapted to the environment they are bred for and can have less impact on the environment compared to commercial modern sheep breeds. Shepherds of small flocks intimately know their sheep, their needs and quirks of the breed. They also know the personalities of their flock, from the confident sheep that will follow them around for treats, to the skittish, unsure sheep who hangs back when there is a new person in their field. Some fleeces even come with the name of the sheep it was shorn from and their unique character. Fantastic!
Commercially fleeces still do not command high prices with an average price of £1.60 per fleece (£2.37 if cleaned) when sold via auction. With an average shearing cost of up to £2 per sheep, it’s not economically viable to sell the fleeces commercially for many small producers who don’t have the economies of scale of larger flocks. However, there is some upturn in the market with wool prices rising in the last year, although it is unclear how this will impact small scale producers who don’t have the economies of scale of larger scale farmers.
This is where we can support small producers of these beautiful fleeces by processing small batches of yarn and celebrating those who know their flocks so well to continue to conserve native and heritage breeds. By buying a Little Sheepie Yarns skein you can support the unique native sheep, shepherds and mills in the UK, keeping the small scale British wool industry going.
Unprocessed Soay fleeces ready to be sent for spinning
