Introduction to Scouring and Fiber Preparation

This course introduces raw fleeces from two different breeds of sheep and invites students to discover how each wool processing step transforms the fiber in your hands. You’ll experience the tactile process of scouring fleece, which is the process of removing lanolin and other dirt or oils from the fleece. After scouring, we’ll move into preparing the fleece for spinning, using hand cards and combs to feel how the fibers align, soften, and come to life.

 

This class offers a deeply hands-on introduction to fiber processing, encouraging close attention to texture, movement, and material awareness as you work with raw wool from start to finish. The scouring process is one of the systemic gaps in our regional textile industry, and learning and sharing this process strengthens the local textile ecosystem.

 

About the Instructor: Christen Pentek

 

Instructor will provide the following:  

All fibers and tools, including fleeces, buckets, scouring agents/soaps, drying rack, carders, drum card, and combs.

 

Students are asked to bring:

• Writing materials or camera, if desired for notetaking

• Dishwashing/latex gloves, if desired

• Weather-appropriate clothing for outdoors

• Since your class runs over the lunch hour, we recommend you bring lunch or click HERE to learn about local eating opportunities. 

 

Skill Level 

No experience required. 

 

Age Recommendation

Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Students ages 16 and 17 may attend without a parent/guardian in attendance as long as MMFS is provided with written parental permission by email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org.

 

Location Details 

Marine Mills Folk School

550 Pine Street

Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

 

Cost Details

Tuition: $100

Materials Fee: $50

Total Cost: $150

 

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy HERE.