Young farmers are weaving as a way to show off their developing agriculture skills.
Students from around the state got a feel for farming in the Fleece to Shawl competition. The event has been a part of the farm show for 8 years. Whether the students were weaving or spinning, the craft teaches them about patience and teamwork.
Destiny Marshall is a weaver from Sugar Valley Rural Charter School, in Clinton County. She says, "If one doesn't do their job, we're not going to finish so we're all equal."
Marshall's team of five is competing against four other teams for the best 78 inch sheep wool shawl.
Program Coordinator, Tom Kinsley says, "It's important to build confidence for these kids. A lot are from 4-H groups and it gives them an opportunity to show off to the public what they've accomplished throughout the years."
By practicing their craft now, they become more qualified to compete in the adult event when they turn 18. We caught up with Abigail Appleman who's been weaving for years. She's competing in the Sheep to Shawl competition, for adults. She applauds the students' efforts in the agriculture industry.
Appleman says, "If they don't do it no one else will. It's great because they are taking on talents and skills that would be lost, if they didn't continue to learn and pass them on to future generations."
