Threads of Sustainability

Episode 47: Reimagining Wool - Regenerative Textiles with Anna Hunter of Long Way Homestead

The Sustainable Quilter Bridget O'Flaherty Season 3 Episode 47

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In this episode, I’m joined by Anna Hunter, the inspiring force behind Long Way Homestead, a small-scale farm and mill in Manitoba that’s redefining what it means to work with wool in Canada. Anna is a farmer, fibre artist, and regenerative agriculture advocate who is changing the game when it comes to sustainable textile production.

We dive deep into regenerative farming, the role of Canadian wool in the global textile industry, and how Anna’s work is helping to revitalize local economies and reconnect people with their clothing and land. From her involvement in the Fibreshed movement to the innovative use of wool pellets in gardening, Anna offers a refreshing, grounded perspective on what a sustainable fibre future could look like.

If you’ve ever wondered where your wool comes from (or where it could) this episode will open your eyes to the untapped potential of local, regenerative fibres.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

  • What regenerative agriculture means for the textile industry
  • Why Canadian wool has been historically undervalued—and how that’s changing
  • The principles of the Fibreshed model and how it applies in a Canadian context
  • Creating transparency and connection in the clothing supply chain
  • Wool pellets as a powerful, sustainable gardening tool
  • The joys and challenges of running a small-scale mill
  • How slow fashion starts at the farm level

Connect with Anna Hunter & Long Way Homestead:   

🌐 Website: longwayhomestead.com
📸 Instagram: @longwayhomestead

Resources & Links Mentioned:

  • Fibreshed movement: fibershed.org
  • More on wool pellets: longwayhomestead.com/woolpellets

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You can find her online at www.bridgetoflaherty.com

Thanks to Isaac Matthews for the music, follow him on Instagram @hesjustakid

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