Skip to main content

Step back into the 18th century and watch a shawl come to life, beginning with the shearing of a Hog Island Sheep and ending at the loom. 

Follow each stage of this hands-on process and discover the skill, time, and craftsmanship behind turning raw wool into finished cloth.

Buy Tickets

Event Showing On

Cost

Included with admission
Adults (Ages 12+): $30
Youth (Ages 6-11): $16
Children (Ages 0-5): Free

Free for Mount Vernon members

See the Step-by-Step Process for Turning Fleece Into Fabric

Experience the journey of wool as it is transformed into cloth through a live demonstration rooted in 18th-century practices.

Watch the shearing of a Hog Island Sheep on the 12-acre field, the essential first step in clothmaking.

Then, follow our historic interpreters to the greenhouse where they will demonstrate how wool is carded, spun into thread, and finally woven on a loom into a shawl.

Discover the Skill Behind Everyday Cloth

Making cloth from wool was once a highly specialized, labor-intensive process essential to daily life.

See these traditional skills in action and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind handmade textiles.

Watch at Your Own Pace

Join the demonstration at any point and watch for as long as you wish.

Each stage of the process depends on the pace of the artisans and the materials available, so the timing of shearing, spinning, and weaving will naturally vary.

Get Emails About Upcoming Events

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the "unsubscribe" link in an email. To learn how your email data is stored and used, please see our privacy policy.