All about fibres ~ April 2025

A return visit by Paul Henry who has previously given talks on different types of Scottish Kilts and how to make them, “From Fleece to Kilts”, and on the art of book binding.

Paul spoke about the main sources of fibre, explaining that all fibres come under two categories; plant fibres such as flax, silk, cotton, jute, sisal, and other unusual but well-used fibres from around the world; and animal fibres such as sheep, goat, angora, llama, camel and even dog. There was a table full of samples, a demonstration of spinning, and stories about fibres and yarns, their uses what they are used for.

We were surprised to hear that strong nettles, especially stinging nettles, can be used to create fabric, rope, and twine and was often woven into “Poor Men’s Linen”.