by Sarabeth Parido
Entering a fleece competition is a great way to showcase the beauty and quality of the wool you produce. Each year, the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival hosts a variety of competitions, including those for wool, alpaca, and mohair fleeces. If you’ve ever considered entering but weren’t sure where to start, this guide will walk you through the process.
Why Enter a Fleece Competition?
Competing in a fleece competition is an opportunity to:
Gain recognition for the quality of your fiber
Receive valuable feedback from experienced judges
Help educate the public about different types of fleece
Connect with potential buyers looking for top-quality fiber
Steps to Enter a Fleece in the Competition
1. Review the Competition Rules
Before preparing your fleece, carefully read the competition guidelines on our website: www.kentuckysheepandfiber.com. Rules can vary based on fiber type, preparation, and display requirements.
2. Select Your Best Fleece
Choose a fleece that is clean, well-skirted, and free of excessive vegetable matter. Judges look for:
Uniformity in staple length and crimp
Brightness and cleanliness
Minimal second cuts
Strength and overall soundness of the fiber
3. Skirt and Prepare the Fleece
Skirting: Remove belly wool, stained areas, and short fibers.
Shake Out Debris: Lightly shake the fleece to remove loose dirt or second cuts.
Avoid Washing: Most fleece competitions require raw, unwashed fiber to be judged in its natural state.
Roll or Fold the Fleece Properly: Presentation matters! Typically, fleece should be rolled cut-side out to display its quality.
4. Complete the Entry Form
Fill out the necessary paperwork, including breed information and any special characteristics of the fleece. Be sure to submit any required fees and paperwork by the deadline. If you don’t know if your paperwork is filled out correctly, don’t panic! Most competitions will assist you in making sure your fleeces are entered in the right category.
5. Deliver Your Fleece
Follow the instructions for fleece drop-off, whether you are mailing it in advance or delivering it in person at the festival.
Other Competitions at the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival
In addition to fleece competitions, we are excited to offer:
Skein Competition – Highlighting handspun yarn artistry
Shawl Competition (New for 2025!) – Celebrating wearable fiber creations
Needle-Felted Item Competition (New for 2025!) – Showcasing intricate felting techniques
Join the Tradition!
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a entering for the first time, the fleece competition at the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival is a rewarding experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your fiber and celebrate the beauty of natural fleece!
For more details and to enter, visit: www.kentuckysheepandfiber.com. We can’t wait to see your entries at the 15th annual Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival, May 17-18, 2025, at Masterson Station Park!
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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