"Turkeyfoot group tackles woolly work" Read the article by Rick Kazmer
Wool PATH can also be found in the March 2009 issue of Somerset Magazine!
Mission Statement
The Wool PATH is a spin-off of the PATH Artists' Group. It is our endeavor to preserve an important
aspect
of the Laurel Highlands and surrounding areas' agricultural heritage by
taking an otherwise cast off by-product - raw wool - and turn it into a
valuable asset. Through a multi-step, 'Pygmalion' process, which
includes cleaning, rinsing, combing, carding, and possibly, dyeing,
spinning and weaving, we will take a dirty fleece covered with dirt,
dung and burrs and make it a thing of beauty whether it is a ball of
yarn or a hand knit sweater.This
will be a hands-on group endeavor resulting in a product suitable for
use in many artistic mediums; knitting, crocheting, felting, weaving,
etc.. While one goal is to provide low cost (though work intensive)
fiber for co-op members, we also wish to generate some income back to
the farmers providing the raw wool by designating a percentage of the
sale of the yarn to them.
In addition, because we encourage
participation by all ages, we would be willing to share our experience
and the process through a series of classes and demonstrations to
schools and civic organizations. In this vein, we hope to be eligible
for grant opportunities to provide funding for equipment and other
costs involved.
A sure sign of the success of this endeavor
would be the creation of a viable cottage industry with its roots here
in Somerset County and the neighboring regions of the Laurel Highlands.
This page is under construction...More info soon! :)