Maine Fibershed Teaching Garland

Maine Fibershed has grown since Melissa, Pat, and farmers, knit and crocheted the first swatches that comprise the “Maine Fibershed Teaching Garland.” It has become our most useful teaching tool, introducing people to the variety of fiber that grows in Maine. At last count, Maine has 55 breeds of fiber animals and a small but growing supply of flax and hemp.

Both a visual and tactile experience, people walk along the garland to “pet the animals,” experiencing a variety of textures and colors. The notion that “I can’t wear wool” is quickly overcome when they find Finn, Soay, Polwarth, beautifully processed Icelandic, or a Romney/Coopworth/Gotland blend. And then there’s the amazement when they feel the swatch of ever-so-soft donkey or swoon-worthy alpaca.

Membership fees, the support of the Lighthouse Knitting Guild of Maine in 2026, and the community of local knitting groups help keep the the Teaching Garland current.

Producer farms who are in our Directory can send their yarn to be swatched and sewn into the flag.

If you would like your farm’s yarn added or updated, send an email to info@mainefibershed.com for labeling specifications and yardage/meterage

Maine Fibershed yarns have story, creativity, and heart, which is experienced by everyone who spends time with the Maine Fibershed Prayer Flag.