Carol said the ranch has reached an agreement with master weaver Carla Gomez of Las Vegas to provide Alpaca wool to advanced students of a weaving project designed to help people develop skills that will enable them to get off welfare and into the job market. We need the stock. As soon as the weavers reach a level of competency that they can make quality items like placemats, coasters, baby clothes, whatever, we will put them to work supplying us with products. Anyone who comes into the shop can add a little to the weaving always present on the loom. One 'customer created' wall hanging is already displayed prominently in the store and another is in process.
Customers can also try their hand at spinning.
Louise, who until a year ago had never even sat down at a spinning wheel, now turns out yarn like a pro. Carol said that a series of spinning and weaving classes is being planned for mid-July. Fabric artist Lani Kyea of Clayton will be the instructor. You can't lose. Classes will be held on a Saturday or Sunday for six weeks.