Stories from the European region

South West England Fibershed

Revitalising a regional wool production network. and enhancing local textile production and fostering a robust community of textile growers and producers.

South West England Fibreshed, founded in 2015 by Emma Hague, is committed to revitalising a regional wool production network. With 36 members, the affiliate focuses on building connections through peer-to-peer networking, storytelling, and collaborative projects. Significant achievements include the “Farming Fashion” podcast, a wool-focused publication, and a £20,000 Micro Bursary Fund to support member-driven initiatives. The affiliate’s efforts are directed towards enhancing local textile production and fostering a robust community of textile growers and producers.

South West England Fibreshed, established in 2015 by Emma Hague, is dedicated to re-establishing a regional supply network for woolen clothing. The affiliate, which now has 36 members, engages in various activities to support and connect the local textile community. Key initiatives include peer-to-peer networking, storytelling through the “Farming Fashion” podcast, and collaborative projects such as the “Farming Fashion: Wool” publication, created in partnership with South East England Fibreshed.

One of the affiliate’s major achievements is the Micro Bursary Fund, which has distributed £20,000 to support members in developing new projects, receiving training, and engaging with their communities. This fund has been crucial in driving innovation and supporting the broader goals of the Fibreshed network.

“I’d like to be able to offer members by strengthening our membership benefits, including increasing access to market, marketing and storytelling support, and small business admin support.”

Emma Hague, South West England Fibershed

Looking to the future, South West England Fibreshed aims to further enhance its support for members. South West England Fibreshed is also launching the “Fashion Field Trip” programme, which will bring fashion tutors and students from local universities to member farms for experiential learning. This initiative seeks to broaden educational opportunities and strengthen the local textile sector, contributing to the affiliate’s ongoing mission of community integration and textile sustainability.

website: https://southwestenglandfibreshed.co.uk/