I have been volunteering to help with the 2017 Iowa Sheep and Wool Festival quite a lot this year. I’m really excited to be working on the line-up of classes. We have a bunch of new ideas that we are implementing this year. Our Shepherding 101 classes are designed for the beginning shepherd (or anyone who just wants to go over the basics!) and feature things like fecal test counts, FAMACHA scoring, and marketing fleeces. We have an entire Children’s Corner with classes of fibery fun just for kids. There is a whole series of in-depth producer education on Saturday. And of course, we have a wide selection of fiber artistry classes for all skill levels!
I am also going to be taking a few of my Shetland flock to represent in the Hall of Breeds. We’re really excited about how many breeds are going to be represented this year. I haven’t decided which of the monsters I am going to be taking, but I’m sure that Herbert will be in the mix!
In a twist, I am going to be one of the instructors at the IS&WF this year. I’m going to be teaching an introductory lace course. I’m really looking forward to getting a new crop of lace knitters excited about my favorite form of knitting! I’m planning on doing a brief “tour” of lace knitting around the world for inspiration.
Sarah Jane Humke 