Spinning a yarn on the farm (From Western Telegraph)

Spinning a yarn on the farm

12:05pm Monday 26th May 2008 in

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Folly Farm is welcoming Pembrokeshire weavers today (Monday), as part of a of a workshop on spinning alpaca fibres.

The Pembrokeshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers visited the farm to meet the alpaca who donate their coats to the guild once a year. Members then spin the fibres, which come in more than 20 natural colours ranging from a non-fading black to cream white, into yarn.

The guild, which meets at the Bloomfield Centre in Narberth, holds workshops and attends shows to demonstrate spinning, weaving and dyeing.

As well as meeting Marilyn, Lynsey and the rest of the alpacas today, they will also have a talk on the animals, which are part of the camel family.

"It's great to have the opportunity to come along and meet the alpacas in person," said Joan Church, Chairman of the guild. "Like Folly Farm, the guild's mission is to educate and entertain so learning about the source of the fibres we spin is a vital part of what we try to achieve through our workshops.

"The alpaca fibres are excellent to work with and the range and depth of their natural colours are beautiful."

Tim Morphew, Folly Farm's Zoo Manager is giving today's talk on the alpaca.

"I'm delighted by the partnership we have formed with the guild," he said.

"It's tremendously satisfying to see our alpaca fleeces being put to such good use and to work with organisations that share our passion to educate children and adults alike about different animals, natural fibres and where indeed the clothes they wear come from."

For more information on Pembrokeshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, and the workshops they are running this year, contact Bettina Becker on 01437 563657 or visit www.pembsguildwsd.org.uk.