Establishing a robust network that fosters collaboration between farmers and consumers of fibers, with the overarching goal of nurturing and fortifying a thriving local textile economy.
Who We Are
Vancouver Island Fibreshed (VIF) links farmers, processors, makers, and consumers in creating a local textile economy based on renewable resources and climate-beneficial farming methods. We acknowledge that we are situated upon unceded traditional Indigenous territories. We help to bring local wool and alpaca yarn and fibres to customers across our area.
Active since 2018, VIF is affiliated with Fibershed, the model that is spreading throughout North America, Europe and Australia. We seek to enhance access to Canadian yarn and textile products.
From the Blog
From Fleece to Sweater: A Spinner/Knitter’s Tale
by Janet Ware Poppy’s fleece (Somerset Farm, Gabriola) Last Spring, when I first saw this large fleece from Alexa at Somerset Farm, I was first…
A Joint Project to Create a 100% Vancouver Island Fibreshed Rug
This project has been, and will continue to be, a Work-In-Progress! Two Vancouver Island fibre artisans – Bobbie and Karla – have combined their talents…
Using Wool Batting in a Quilt
The Gabriola Fibreshed pod wanted to prove to island farmers that local fleece is well worth processing, so we sent a number of fleeces from…