Foraging and processing wool to use in desire path textile project

I foraged this sheep wool while walking around York Sculpture park.

After soaking in hot soapy water for 30 minutes, I washed it, then rinsed and drained the water. I picked out any organic material I could see and then repeated this whole process until it looked, felt and smelt clean.

I rung it dry as much as I possibly could and then left it to air dry near my radiator.

I'm really pleased with how this turned out, the wool has kept a lot of its natural character and texture and it is a beautiful bone white colour. 

I am looking forward to illustrating some of the desire paths I photographed at YSP using wool from the sheep who will have helped form those paths through their living habits. Through their choices. Through their habit. Through their instinct and relationship with the land.