Winter Shearing — Sheep Shearing Services

About Elle

I shear sheep on farms large and small across the Northeast, where I'm based in New York's Hudson Valley.

My shearing journey has taken me from coast to coast of the US, working in more than fifteen states, as well as further abroad in both Australia and New Zealand. In addition, I have wool handling experience that informs my shearing style and commitment to the highest quality fleeces.

No matter where I am, I love working with sheep and the farmers who care for them.

Services

Winter Shearing provides shearing, crutching, and hoof trims for all size sheep flocks, with a focus on fleece quality and your flock's well-being

I serve NY, PA, NJ, VT, western MA and CT

I am based in the orchards of Highland, NY

Typically I stay within two hours drive of the Hudson Valley, but also make annual trips out further afield each spring.

If you are struggling to find a local shearer, make sure to contact me by end of December so that I can add you to an existing run in your area

WHY WINTER SHEARING?

Sheep care — **CARE** I handle each animal with care & compassion. I strive to treat your flock as if they were my own

Quality shearing — **QUALITY** I take pride in providing a clean shear that maximizes your fiber yield. I always prioritize shearing precision and safety in order to maintain animal comfort and clip quality

Sheep flock — **RELIABILITY** I am timely for appointments and arrive prepared. I communicate any schedule changes as soon as possible and send out reminders of your appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT SPECIES DO YOU SHEAR?

My specialty is sheep and only sheep! :)

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR SHEARING DAY?

Please take a look at my prep guide: LINK

WHEN'S THE RIGHT TIME TO SHEAR MY SHEEP?

The right time to shear depends on a variety of factors, including: sheep breed, lambing schedule, your flock's shelter/barn, your climate, and your intentions for your wool

I strongly recommend shearing before lambing --> SOURCE

HOW MUCH DOES SHEARING COST?

Pricing is based on flock size and travel costs. Please provide head count, breed, and location, as well as any specific date requests or breeding schedule constraints, when requesting a quote

WHEN SHOULD I CONTACT YOU?

The earlier you reach out the better! Especially if you are requesting a specific date. I typically start scheduling spring shearing dates in January. I do my best to accommodate everyone, but typically the clients that contact me in April are waitlisted until June or later

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SHEAR MY FLOCK?

Appointment length varies based on flock size and health, weather conditions, wool shed conditions, and the support that you or your shepherd provides. Please call to discuss if you have scheduling concerns

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY WOOL?

Here are a few places to get started: LINK

If you are a fiber processing facility that would like to be added to this list, please reach out via email

Contact

Get in touch to schedule your shearing appointment!

I need details about your flock size, breed, location, and lambing schedule (if relevant) to provide a quote