Our newest yarn arrival didn’t travel far to get here – from the Piedmont of Virginia. Gum Tree Farm in Middleburg raises a Merino flock that is certified organic. And the yarn that they produce is as sustainable as we can offer – having traveled from within the state!

Each ewe produces about 8 lbs of fleece (and 1-2 lambs) per year. The sheep are sheared in late spring, and the fleeces are then organically processed by Green Mountain Spinnery into raw wool, roving, handspun, and machine spun yarns. Because quantities are small, each run is limited edition. The yarn comes in only three natural sheep colors: white, silver and dark chocolate. (Buy what you need and then some, as the sheep’s fleece changes each year and our batch next year may not match this year’s batch!)

We hope to someday organize a trip to the farm to see the sheep roaming the lush pastures with their llama protector, “Haley.” (Did you know that llamas are commonly brought in to guard livestock? Everyone should have their own “Guard Llama!”)

Gum Tree Yarn Details

Each worsted weight skein weighs 2 oz

Approximately 140 yards

$14 each

Project Ideas

We have several patterns direct from Gum Tree including this adorable baby bootie set:

But if you are looking for something for you, check out this new pattern from Knitty. It would pair nicely with jeans or leggings and can be worn with our without a wide belt!