Fiber

Jacobs sheep are spotted sheep with colored patches on a white or cream background. The colored patches display a range of shades from very light gray to deep gray, dark chocolate and black.  The tips are sometimes sun bleached brown which adds to the warmth of many colors.  Dark and light fibers can be blended together for a very wide variety of tones and effects which makes for so much potential for creativity and patterns in gorgeous, natural colors. 

 

Jacobs sheep fiber is described by fiber enthusiasts as "soft soft". It is medium grade, which means it has a slightly greater fiber diameter than fine wools.  Breed standard ranges from 26.4 to 36.2 microns with an average staple length of 4-7 inches.  It is soft, springy, open, has good loft and is low in lanolin.  Fabric made using Jacobs fiber are next-to-the-skin comfortable, lightweight, warm and drapey. It is beautiful for hand spinning and weaving.   Additionally, the fibers take natural and acid dyes very well if you enjoy color work. It is also very good for felting projects, felting quickly and easily.

 

Because Jacobs are a rare breed, their fleeces, roving and yarn can be difficult to find locally sourced.  Our flock is registered with the Livestock Conservancy and we participate in the ShaveEmtoSaveEm program.  You can participate in the conservation of this beautiful breed by your patronage of our fiber shop.