This November release is available for pre-order now. It's been a long time since I've been excited about a new book release. As knitters and spinners we often become stuck in a fibre rut and this book may be the incentive you need to explore other fibres and sheep breeds.
Written by Justine Lee and Jess Morency this 144 page book features endangered breeds from the UK (and also endangered here in Australia). The book explores the history, habitat, appearance and, fleece and the resulting yarn. Historically, British sheep originated from three main sources: longwools and a few shortwools from the Romans; ancients from the island of Soay in Scotland; and mountain breeds from the Vikings. Today, sheep breeds used for knitting are categorised slightly differently: there are the primitives, longwools, downs and shortwools. Knitwear designer and author Justine Lee, set out on a search for the British 'cashmere' and knitted with yarn from each of the 62 pure breeds in order to find the ones that produce the best yarn for hand knitting. She has designed 10 knitting patterns for garments and accessories made using yarn from 10 different pure breed sheep, focusing on the ones that provide the softest and most beautiful wool for hand knitted projects.
The UK has a long history of sheep farming and has contributed significantly to the development and preservation of many sheep breeds. Although the sheep are native British breeds all of the sheep featured in this collection can be found in the USA and Australia which also have a strong tradition of sheep farming and conservation. Beautiful black and white photography captures the unique look and characteristics of these wonderful animals that mean so much to fibre lovers around the world.
