Member Name: Susan Kroll
Farm / Business Name: Thistlehill Farm

My name is Susan Kroll and I live in Sequim on a 5-acre farm.  When we retired here 20 years ago I had the wonderful idea to get some Shetland sheep to keep my dairy goat company and help graze the pastures. (They also provide lots of fertilizer for my gardens!) I am a big fan of natural fibers, particularly wool.  Shetlands are a small, primitive breed, and produce fine wool with a long staple. The extra bonus is that they are known to be hale and hearty, excellent moms, and practically take care of themselves.  I had already taken up spinning, knitting, and weaving, but continued to learn as I practiced my crafts with my own wool from the harvest to the finished product. I have since added dyeing to that list, most often with plants that I can grow and collect in my area.

Given my background, this is where my interest in a Co-operative Fiber Mill comes in.  I became a member of the Co-op when it first started and have been involved in moving it forward.  I believe in a community of folks of disparate backgrounds, skills and ideas, coming together around a common interest.  Building a common tool; creating an environment to share our knowledge; and to educate, encourage, and inspire each other.