Wool courses offered

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 29, 15 December 1987, Page 4

Wool courses offered

Smallholders and hobby farmers wanting to develop or expand a fleece business can learn the ins and outs of wool production at a day course being offered by Massey university's Wool Department in February. Department head Bill Regnault said interest from smallholders in the University's annual woolcraft courses had been high. In the past they had fitted into courses teaching wool characteristics and preparation largely designed for spinners and weavers. The 1988 courses would include one specifically aimed at smallholders. Its emphasis would be on the preparation for sale of fleeces, as well as wool characteristics, terminology and production, M r Regnault said. "Smallholders are often involved in spinning. Very

often it's women who play the main part on the smallholding and this is something many become interested in and have time for." The one-day courses, which have been run annually by the department since 1976, will be held on February 16-20. The first on February 16, will be "Wool for Spinning" aimed at people who use wool. The next day a course for teachers o f woolcraft will be held to help those people consolidate and increase their knowledge of wool use. "Wool knowledge for Smallholders" will be held on February 19. The following day "Wool for Spinning" will be repeated for those unable to attend the weekday course. The courses cost $15 per day. Each has vacancies for about 60 people. Applicants are urged to register as early as possible to be sure of a place.