Three books about sheep and fibre
Are you looking to deepen your knowledge of fleeces and fibres? In this blog post, we introduce three books we carry that contain a wealth of information about different fibre-producing animals and sheep breeds, and the best ways to use their fleeces. We hope this selection will support you as you explore different ways to work with a wide array of animal fibres.
1) The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook: More than 200 Fibers from Animal to Spun Yarn
by Deborah Robson & Carol Ekarius
This book is a comprehensive, richly illustrated encyclopedia (hardcover, 438 pages, published in 2011) that takes a deep dive into the world of animal fibres. It catalogs over 200 animals; mostly sheep, but also goats, llamas, alpacas, bison, rabbits, camels, and even dogs! The layout and design is very tactile, with lots of photos showing fleece in different stages; washed, spun, swatched. It’s designed for spinners, knitters, weavers, and fibre artists who want to understand what makes each type of animal fibre unique, and how best to work with it.
The introductory chapter offers a thorough overview of what fibre is and how it grows, how types of fibre are classified; the differences between wool, hair, and down; useful terms, and the basics of spinning and processing. (NB: It doesn’t include step-by-step spinning instructions.) The bulk of the book covers various animal groups, including their history, geographic origin, conservation status, fleece characteristics including behaviour during processing, and best uses. There’s a glossary and resource list at the back, as well as an extensive index.
Who is it for?
The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook is a serious reference book. It’s ideal for textile educators and fibre enthusiasts interested in sourcing specific fleece types for unique projects. It’s informative rather than instructional.
2) The Field Guide to Fleece: 100 Sheep Breeds and How to Use their Fibers
by Deborah Robson & Carol Ekarius
This portable, pleasantly-designed quick-reference guide (paperback, 231 pages, published in 2013) is a companion to The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook mentioned above. It starts with a few pages on fleece types and how to use the book, and goes on to cover 100 sheep breeds with a photo and corresponding data: fleece weight, staple length, fibre diameter, natural colours, and ideal uses. It also mentions their conservation status where applicable.
At the back of the book, there’s some background information and a brief glossary. The Field Guide to Fleece is small enough to fit in your bag, perfect for bringing to fleece markets, fibre festivals, or the farm.
Who is it for?
Although this book is beginner-friendly, there’s no narrative, fibre theory, or in-depth discussion of spinning, fibre preparation or project planning as it’s more of an informative tool for decision-making. But if you’re holding some raw fleece and want to identify its likely breed or the best way to use it, this is the guide for you!
3) The Spinner’s Book of Fleece: A Breed-by-breed Guide to Choosing and Spinning the Perfect Fiber for Every Purpose
by Beth Smith
This book is enjoyable to read for a practical manual (hardcover, 245 pages, published in 2014). The author is a teacher, and her writing is relatable, warm and reassuring. Beth Smith groups 21 sheep breeds into categories (fine wools, longwools, downs, etc.) and offers detailed, step-by-step guidance for working with their fibres, from scouring raw fleece to finishing yarns, to project planning. She helps readers make purchasing and processing decisions to create functional, intentional yarn.
The book also includes many photos of Beth's sample swatches and spinning results, as well of the sheep, including some historical context. Although some completed projects are featured, the book doesn’t include actual patterns. At the back, there’s a brief glossary, reading list and references.
Who is it for?
The Spinner’s Book of Fleece is ideal for those who are already familiar with hand-spinning and are looking to fine-tune their craft to achieve specific results.
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+About Sweet Paprika
Sweet Paprika Designs offers high-quality materials for knitters and crocheters, with a focus on locally-sourced and sustainable products. Co-owners (and sisters) Debbie and Elizabeth create their own hand-dyed yarns, knitting kits and patterns in their Montreal dye studio and organize knitting and dyeing events in the community.
Ivy Oldford
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