After years of attending the NYS Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY as a fiber enthusiast, this year I finally got to experience it from the other side of the table as an instructor! Though the 3-hour drive from Syracuse at 5 AM was an early start, the excitement of teaching my first festival workshops kept me energized.
I taught two sold-out macramé workshops – a classic plant hanger and a wall hanging where we incorporated wool roving for an extra special touch. Having 16 eager students in each class was incredible. The energy and creativity in the room were palpable, and watching everyone’s pieces come to life was truly magical.
One of the most amazing things about this festival is how it draws fiber artists from all corners of the country. I even had a student who traveled all the way from Miami. Florida to attend! It really showed me how special this community is.
The festival itself is a fiber lover’s paradise. While I wish I’d come a day earlier to explore more (note to self for next year!), I know from previous years what an incredible event it is. From live sheep shearing demonstrations to auctions, competitions, and vendors selling beautiful handmade goods – there’s something for everyone. You can even buy livestock if you’re so inclined! I always enjoy looking at all the various sheep, goat, and alpaca breads. They are just so cute!
I’m always in awe of the incredible organization behind this massive event. The army of staff and volunteers who make it run smoothly year after year deserve a standing ovation. From directing traffic to assisting vendors and teaching spaces, their dedication makes this festival the fiber arts destination it has become.
Seeing my workshops sell out nearly a month in advance was both humbling and exciting. It really drove home how much interest there is in macramé and fiber arts in general. There’s something special about teaching a craft you love and watching others discover their own creativity.
I came away from the festival feeling inspired and grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to teach, for the wonderful students who chose to spend their time learning with me, and for being part of such a vibrant fiber arts community.
Next year, hopefully, you’ll find me there again – but this time I’m blocking out an extra day to soak in all the woolly goodness and maybe catching a few more hours of sleep before the drive! This entire experience was a dream come true for me as an artist. I can’t recommend this event enough. Maybe next year, I’ll see you there?
