The art of sheep shearing is both a practical and an artistic endeavor, especially when it comes to the prized Rambouillet Targhee breed. Known for their exceptional wool, these sheep require skilled hands to transform their fleeces into works of art. In this guide, we will explore the steps to create eight impeccable Rambouillet Targhee fleeces, ensuring both quality and aesthetic appeal.

Understanding the Rambouillet Targhee Breed

The Rambouillet Targhee, a result of crossing Rambouillet and Targhee sheep, boasts a superior wool quality that is highly sought after. Their fleeces are characterized by a soft, fine texture with a staple length ranging from 3 to 6 inches. The crimp, or waviness, in their wool provides excellent elasticity and resilience, making it ideal for a variety of textile applications.

Selecting the Right Sheep

The first step in creating perfect fleeces is selecting healthy, well-bred Rambouillet Targhee sheep. Look for individuals with a balanced body structure, good muscle tone, and a dense, even fleece coverage. Avoid sheep with any signs of illness or injury, as these can affect the quality of the fleece.

Pre-Shearing Preparation

• Brushing: Gently brush the sheep's fleece to remove any debris, dirt, or excess vegetation. This step ensures a clean fleece and makes the shearing process smoother.
• Checking for Parasites: Inspect the sheep for any signs of external parasites like ticks or lice. If found, treat the sheep accordingly to ensure a healthy fleece.
• Feeding and Hydration: Ensure the sheep are well-fed and hydrated before shearing. A healthy sheep will have a healthier fleece.

Shearing Techniques

Mastering the art of shearing is crucial for obtaining perfect fleeces. Here are some key techniques to consider:

• Start at the Neck: Begin shearing at the neck, working your way down the body. This approach ensures a clean, even cut and prevents any accidental nicks or cuts on the sheep.
• Use Quality Shears: Invest in high-quality shears specifically designed for sheep shearing. Sharp, well-maintained shears will make the process easier and produce a cleaner cut.
• Maintain a Consistent Angle: Hold the shears at a consistent angle to the sheep's body. This ensures an even fleece length and prevents any uneven spots.
• Work with the Fleece Direction: Pay attention to the direction of the fleece growth. Shearing with the natural direction of the fleece will result in a smoother, more even cut.

Skirting the Fleece

Skirting involves removing any undesirable parts of the fleece, such as tags (short, matted fibers), belly wool (coarser and less desirable), and areas with vegetation or dirt. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Spread the fleece out on a clean surface.
2. Identify and remove any tags or matted areas.
3. Separate the belly wool, which is usually coarser and less desirable for spinning.
4. Check for any vegetation or dirt, and carefully remove it to maintain the fleece's integrity.
5. Once skirted, roll or fold the fleece to keep it clean and organized.

Sorting and Classing the Fleece

Sorting and classing the fleece is an essential step to ensure the wool is suitable for its intended use. Here's how to do it:

1. Staple Length: Sort the fleece based on staple length. This ensures that fibers with similar lengths are grouped together, making it easier to spin and process.
2. Fiber Diameter: Class the fleece by fiber diameter. Fibers with a finer diameter are often used for finer yarns, while coarser fibers are suitable for bulkier, warmer yarns.
3. Color: If you're working with naturally colored wool, sort the fleece by color. This allows for the creation of unique, variegated yarns or fabrics.

Cleaning and Scouring

Before processing the fleece, it's essential to clean and scour it to remove any remaining dirt, grease, or lanolin. Here's a simple guide:

1. Fill a clean sink or tub with warm water and a gentle wool wash or soap.
2. Submerge the fleece and gently agitate it to remove dirt and grease.
3. Rinse the fleece thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
4. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay the fleece flat to dry.

Note: Avoid wringing or twisting the fleece, as this can damage the fibers.

Carding and Spinning

Carding is the process of aligning the fibers and preparing them for spinning. Here's a basic overview:

1. Use hand cards or a drum carder to align and blend the fibers.
2. Create rolags or batts, which are easy to spin and produce a consistent yarn.
3. Spin the prepared fibers using a spinning wheel or a drop spindle.
4. Ply the spun singles together to create a stronger, more balanced yarn.

Finishing Touches

Once the yarn is spun, there are a few final steps to ensure its quality and softness:

• Fulling: A process of washing and agitating the yarn to shrink and thicken it, making it stronger and softer.
• Blocking: Shaping the knitted or woven fabric to its final dimensions and ensuring an even, professional finish.
• Dyeing (Optional): If desired, dye the yarn or fabric to achieve a specific color or effect.

Displaying Your Perfect Fleeces

Once you've created eight impeccable Rambouillet Targhee fleeces, it's time to showcase your craftsmanship. Consider these ideas:

• Create a display rack or stand to exhibit your fleeces.
• Display your spun yarn or knitted/woven creations alongside the fleeces.
• Host a workshop or demonstration to educate others about the art of sheep shearing and wool processing.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you'll be able to create eight perfect Rambouillet Targhee fleeces that showcase the beauty and versatility of this exceptional wool.

What is the ideal staple length for Rambouillet Targhee wool?

+

The ideal staple length for Rambouillet Targhee wool ranges from 3 to 6 inches, making it versatile for various textile applications.

Can I use mechanical shearing machines instead of hand shears?

+

While mechanical shearing machines are an option, hand shears provide more control and precision, especially for creating perfect fleeces.

How often should I shear my Rambouillet Targhee sheep?

+

Shearing should be done annually, typically in the spring or early summer, to maintain the health and comfort of the sheep and the quality of the fleece.

Are there any specific spinning techniques suitable for Rambouillet Targhee wool?

+

Yes, Rambouillet Targhee wool is known for its versatility. You can use a variety of spinning techniques, including worsted and woolen spinning, to achieve different yarn characteristics.