Creating handmade wool is a labour-intensive process that requires dedication, attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for the craft. The wool I work with comes from original local Palestinian breed sheep, sheared just once a year. It is important to me that these sheep are not hybrid with non-local breeds, as their wool would not be as strong or suitable for spinning and weaving.
One of the remarkable qualities of Palestinian wool is its strength and softness, despite not being mechanically processed like wool from other parts of the world. The wool undergoes a meticulous manual washing and cleaning process, ensuring it is free from impurities. However, traces of the barely and wheat leaves the sheep consume may still be present. Rather than viewing this as a flaw, I see it as a beautiful aspect of the handmade and completely natural wool-making process.
The selection of the wool is crucial, and I ensure that the sheep live in a clean environment and receive proper care. This not only contributes to the quality of the wool but also reflects my commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. By working with wool that is sourced responsibly, I am not only creating a product but also preserving a beautiful memory of the land.
The process of creating handmade wool is far from short. It begins in springtime when the wool is gathered from shepherds. After washing and cleaning, the fibers are carefully pulled apart to prepare them for spinning. Each step is carried out with patience and care, honoring the Palestinian tradition and the artistry of the craft.
Once the wool is ready for spinning, it is handed over to the skilled women I collaborate with. They spin the wool at their own pace, without any rushing or pressure. I believe in empowering these women to spin when they feel good and healthy, as their well-being is just as important as the quality of the wool.
As the wool is being spun, my role shifts to dyeing and preparing it for design and weaving. Each step of the process is infused with energy, attention to detail, and the warmth of Palestinian tradition. The result is a truly unique product, where no single centimeter is the same. This distinctive characteristic adds another layer of beauty to the handmade Palestinian wool.
Once the wool is ready for spinning, it is handed over to the skilled women I collaborate with. They spin the wool at their own pace, without any rushing or pressure. I believe in empowering these women to spin when they feel good and healthy, as their well-being is just as important as the quality of the wool.
As the wool is being spun, my role shifts to dyeing and preparing it for design and weaving. Each step of the process is infused with energy, attention to detail, and the warmth of Palestinian tradition. The result is a truly unique product, where no single centimeter is the same. This distinctive characteristic adds another layer of beauty to the handmade Palestinian wool.