Fat Lamb Fiber Festival:
Bringing wool back to the Lamb & Wool Fair!
by LaVonne Murray
New to this year's Linn County Lamb & Wool Fair was the Fat Lamb Fiber Festival and Fat Lamb Spin-in.
|
The title "Fat Lamb" was chosen not only because it is catchy and easily remembered, but also because of its historical connection to the Linn County Lamb & Wool Fair. When the Fair was started in 1935 it was called the Fat Lamb Show.
The Fat Lamb Fiber Festival is the effort of a group of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about sheep and all things fiber. The group is striving to bring wool back to the Lamb & Wool Fair in a way that celebrates the heritage of lamb and wool in Linn County. Educating the public about sheep and wool with fun and entertaining activities is its focus. 
So, what can you expect to see next year? Planning for the 2019 event will begin this summer. While it is too early to give details, you can expect to see more demonstrations revolving around sheep and fiber, as well as additional fiber vendors.
|
Free hands-on fiber activities were offered at the Old Chapin Mill. Fair goers were able to try wet felting, weaving and spinning with a drop spindle. Spinning with a wheel and the art of needle felting were also demonstrated. In addition to the hands-on activities, the festival also offered a fleece show and fiber arts show.
On Sunday, the first annual Fat Lamb Spin-in was held at the ZCBJ Hall. A Spin in is a gathering of fiber enthusiasts who enjoy the art of spinning. In addition to hours of conversation and spinning, participants received door prizes and listened to the live folk music provided by the Fourth Friday Jammers.
The Spin-in was open to all fair goers. The fiber vendors offered an amazing variety of beautiful fiber and yarn, as well as finished products.
|
The group’s vision is to see the Fat Lamb Fiber Festival and Fat Lamb Spin-in become a vibrant and essential part of the Linn County Lamb and Wool Fair. If you are a fiber enthusiast and would like more information contact LaVonne Murray at 503-394-3113 or at fatlambfiberfest@gmail.com