by Frank MacDonald (Reprinted from the May 28, 2003 Oran with the permission of Frank MacDonald)

An untimely afternoon rainfall interrupted the Lake Ainslie Weavers plans for a Sheep to Shawl demonstration on the Bellemeade Farm in Rankinville on Sunday.

Usually held on the site of the Lake Ainslie Weavers and Craft Guild centre in Scotsville, this year's demonstration was hosted by the Lake-Thompson family who offered their farm as a unique setting for the ambitious undertaking. Visitors to the farm were guided through the steps involved in the traditional weaving of cloth, beginning with the shearing of the sheep.

The sheep shearer was 16-year-old Gillian Lake-Thompson. Last year, when the family was unable to get the services of a professional shearer, Gillian took it upon herself to learn, found instruction, and managed to shear the family's flock, as well as small flocks on neighbouring farms.

In the barn, Gillian demonstrated the labourous task by shearing a number of the Scottish Black Face sheep. The wool, once removed, is washed until white, then set to dry. During the drying process it is picked clean of any clinging debris such as hay or nettles. The carding process, a combing of the wool with a pair of densely toothed combs, straightens the wool for the spinning stage. Once the wool is spun, it is then dyed in natural dyes such as onion skins or lichen.

There were several samples of how the wool is put to use once it is ready; weaving, crocheting, knitting and plying. There was also a felting demonstration.

Unfortunately for the extensive planning and the families who took part in either the demonstration or as curious visitors, rainfall sent the plans awry shortly after getting underway.

It was in 1997 when the weavers guild last undertook a "sheep to shawl" demonstration. Hopefully, it won't be that long before people have another opportunity to witness and appreciate the still lingering traditional skills that have made the Lake Ainslie Weavers and craft Guild one of the most successful in the country.