by Sarabeth Parido
We are introducing a series of interviews with fiber producers from across the commonwealth who are members of the Kentucky Fiber Trail. For this blog, we had the pleasure of interviewing one of our first members, Morgan Farms. The Morgans are fiber producers who have turned their passion for fiber into a family affair. A Kentucky native family, originally from Cumberland County, but now residing on their farm in Franklin County, they share insights into their journey, challenges, and advice for those looking to follow in their footsteps.
Q: What type of fiber or breed do you produce? What initially sparked your interest in fiber production?
A: We raise Jacob and Shetland sheep. It all started with our daughter, Karen, who was heavily involved in 4H projects, including crochet and knitting. Her interest grew after showing FFA market sheep, and we eventually transitioned to fiber sheep. Karen has a real gift for working with fiber, and now it’s something the entire family is involved in.
Q: As a producer, how do you handle your fiber? Do you process it yourself or send it to a mill?
A: We do a bit of both. We sell raw fleece, roving, batts, rolags, hand-spun yarn, and other fleece products. We’ve also sent fiber to mills to be processed into yarn and roving when needed.
Q: How much work goes into managing your farm and fiber production?
A: It’s hard to put into exact hours—it depends on the season. We check them twice daily, morning and evening. Spring is very busy with lambing and shearing. Each season has its own timeline. Its farming, its a full time job.
Q: How much fiber knowledge did you have before you started raising your own fiber animals?
A: We had some knowledge, but not enough to feel fully prepared. There’s definitely a learning curve when you first start out.
Q: What was the most valuable resource for you when you were starting out?
A: Talking to other breeders was key. We visited farms and met with breeders in several states before deciding on which breeds to raise. Their advice and experience were invaluable.
Q: If someone approached you asking for advice on getting started in fiber farming, what would your top piece of advice be?
A: Do your RESEARCH! Not all breeds are suited for every farm or farmer. You need to know what’s required to raise fiber animals and have a PLAN. Sometimes, people dive into raising sheep without understanding all the demands of farming, and that can set them up for failure.
You can find more information about the Morgan family and their farm and animals on their website- https://morganfarmsky.com and you can find more about the Kentucky Fiber Trail at www.kentuckyfibertrail.com
Sarabeth Parido, is the Director of the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival and The Kentucky Fiber Trail. She raises her own small flock of sheep in Clark County, Kentucky along with her husband and four sons.
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