Soil to Soil
Soil to Soil: Regenerative Wool Waste R&D
This research and development project investigates undervalued and discarded wool waste through collaboration with farmers and specialised technical tuition.
Using a ‘Soil to Soil’ approach, I will explore advanced fibre treatment, blending and spinning methods to transform overlooked fleece into viable regenerative material.
The project focuses on material innovation, skill development, and knowledge exchange, with potential environmental, educational and economic benefit.
Field Trip Research
Exploring the journey of wool from field to cloth, this R&D project investigates sustainable fibre use, creative techniques, and learning opportunities across education and community contexts.
The Material
Hundreds of thousands of kilos of fleece are discarded in the UK year on year.
Black fleece is deemed as of no value. Black fleece is wool that is not pure white.
These natural fleeces are a thing of beauty & could have potential use in education or creative textiles art based uses.
The Process
Hand-spun black fleece for experimentation in educational and community settings.
Comparing blended fibres with small-scale mill processing.
Testing creative techniques with sustainable materials for workshops and my own personal weave practice.
Rampisham Hill Mill
Why Now?
I have huge experience teaching in the community and teaching in formal education. Since 2019 and the self investment in my practice with the completion of an MA. I have slowly been building my creative practice and profile. In 2025 I took a risk and a studio, not quite as I had planned but fate took a hand. I run a textile based workshop programme, deliver talks, work in the community and weave my concept led art pieces for exhibition. I have recently received recognition for my work and I am working with a basketweaver to explore on and off loom weaving creating 3D woven sculpture. I am at a pivotal point in my practice where this project will combine two sides of my practice of education and making through materiality. Through a one off conversation this project was born and a desire to use discarded fleeces for good.
Studio 10 @Project Workshops
Located at Studio 10, Sharon Kearley Designs is a creative hub at Project Workshops. With a rich background in education and textiles, Sharon's studio is a fusion of workspace and learning center. Drawing from over 20 years of experience, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to her designs. Each piece is meticulously crafted to reflect her passion for art and innovation to create bespoke wovens.
