Why Icelandic Sheep?

I started out as a knitter. I loved the variety of yarns to choose from, but wanted more natural fiber options. Out interest in traditional arts led me to a spinning wheel. A friend of ours, who was already a spinner, graciously offered to teach me how. I was immediately hooked and another addiction was started!

The more I spun, though, the more wool I wanted. We had a small farm and I began to wonder about adding sheep. I grew up in the city, though, and had little experience with farm animals. As I researched, it became apparent that Icelandic sheep were a good match for me!

Icelandic Sheep are a small primitive sheep breed. Their smallness makes them somewhat easier to handle. Because they are a primitive breed, their natural instinct means lower maintenance. They can lamb unassisted; they are primarily pasture or hay fed.

(Check out the adorable lamb pictures here: Lambs 2008)

My primary purpose for raising sheep was their wool. Icelandic sheep have very soft, long stapled wool, which is easy to spin and felt. We shear twice a year - twice as much wool. I also love the fact that they come in a variety of colors and patterns which leads to a wide variety wools to knit!

(Check out the variety of wool rovings here: Wool and Yarn)