I found some more Texas grown spinning fiber! I was connected to another spinner through our local coffee shop, and she sent me many resources, including the name of a Texas rancher that raises Shetland Sheep (https://baizeshetlands.weebly.com/). Shetland sheep were developed in Scotland to be competition for Italian Merino wool. These sheep are also thriving in the Davis mountains of Texas! I ordered a prepared batt, since I wanted to see how the fiber is supposed to handle before I delve into the raw fleece. In the box with the wool was a passport stamp for the Shave ‘Em to Save ‘Em initiative by the Livestock conservancy. So of course I ordered a passport for my new sticker. There are many breeds of endangered sheep in the passport, and so many opportunities to learn about different wool!

The Shetland knitters are known for “wedding ring” shawls; large lacy knitted fabric that is so fine, it can be passed through a wedding ring. I am awed by their skill. I read more and found out that the lace uses only knit stitches, no purl stitches so it is double sided. I am not fond of purl stitches, so this might be a way for me to enjoy knitting. I don’t intend on embarking on a wedding ring shawl, but maybe trying some of this lace on a small project. It seems only fitting to try Shetland knitting with Shetland wool. Oh, and knitters in Scotland historically used a knitting belt, which allowed them to walk and knit. I have my work cut out for me.