At St Piers, sustainability and creativity are being spun into something truly special. Students are taking fleece from the college’s own flock of sheep and transforming it into beautiful, handcrafted items—from cosy cushions to striking pieces of textile art.
It all begins on St Piers Farm, where animal care and agriculture students help raise and shear the sheep. The fleece is then cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn using traditional techniques such as hand-spinning and natural dyeing. These workshops not only preserve heritage skills but also give students a deeper appreciation of the materials they’re working with.
Once the yarn is ready, it’s handed over to students in design and textiles courses, who use it to create a range of products. Whether it’s a cushion stitched with care or a wall hanging that tells a story, each item reflects a blend of rural life and modern creativity.
What makes this initiative particularly inspiring is its circular nature. The fleece is sourced from our own sheep, the products are made by students, and the final pieces are sold at community markets and our online shop. It’s a full-cycle experience that teaches practical skills, entrepreneurial thinking, and environmental responsibility.
These student-made creations are more than just products—they’re a celebration of craftsmanship, sustainability, and the power of learning by doing.
