Winter Institute Sheep Shearing

The 2026 Winter Institute Sheep Shearing workshop at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum is an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed for farmers, homesteaders, aspiring shearers, fiber enthusiasts, and anyone interested in traditional agricultural practices. Led by master shearer Joe Schott, this workshop provides an in-depth introduction to the tools, techniques, and methods used in humane and efficient sheep shearing. Held as part of Landis Valley’s Winter Institute educational series, this class offers both practical skill-building and valuable historical context related to sheep farming in Pennsylvania German communities.

Participants in the workshop will learn the fundamentals of modern and traditional shearing techniques, including animal handling, body positioning, blade and clipper use, maintaining proper shearing posture, and ensuring the safety of both the shearer and the sheep. Joe Schott, known for his calm, knowledgeable approach and extensive experience with heritage breed flocks, will guide students through a step-by-step process that emphasizes gentle, low-stress handling and clean shearing strokes. His instruction focuses on reducing strain for the shearer, improving efficiency, and protecting the integrity of the fleece.

The workshop begins with an overview of sheep behavior, anatomy, and temperament—an essential foundation for anyone learning to shear. Understanding how sheep move and react allows participants to practice safe and effective techniques. From there, students will observe demonstrations of proper shearing patterns before transitioning to guided practice. Depending on class size, participants may have the opportunity to shear portions of a sheep under supervision, gaining a real sense of the rhythm, pace, and body mechanics required in this traditional skill.

In addition to shearing technique, the 2026 Winter Institute Sheep Shearing workshop includes essential instruction in wool handling. Students will learn how to properly gather, skirt, sort, and prepare fleece for cleaning, spinning, or sale. Joe Schott will discuss common fleece characteristics, how to identify high-quality wool, and how farmers historically used wool in Pennsylvania German households and local markets. This combination of technical skill and cultural history makes the workshop a rich educational experience suitable for both beginners and seasoned fiber artists.

Because animal care is central to responsible shearing, the workshop also covers key topics such as hoof checks, basic parasite identification, wound care, and seasonal preparation. Participants will leave with a well-rounded understanding of the physical needs of sheep during shearing season, making this workshop ideal for individuals who raise small flocks or who plan to begin doing so in the future.

Landis Valley’s historic farm environment provides an authentic backdrop for learning these skills. As a museum dedicated to preserving Pennsylvania German agricultural traditions, Landis Valley connects the practice of sheep shearing to broader themes of rural life, textile production, sustainability, and heritage breed preservation. The Winter Institute series underscores the importance of maintaining traditional skills and passing them on to new generations.

All tools and equipment are provided during the workshop, though participants are welcome to bring their own hand shears if they prefer. Attendees should wear sturdy boots, long pants, and comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement. Because shearing is a physical activity, participants should expect to kneel, bend, and maneuver around animals in a controlled environment.

By the end of the workshop, students will have gained confidence in handling sheep, understanding fleece quality, and applying foundational shearing techniques. The 2026 Winter Institute Sheep Shearing class is an invaluable opportunity for farmers, fiber artists, agricultural students, and anyone who wants to learn a meaningful, historically grounded skill from a respected expert in the field.

Advance registration is required, and class size is limited to ensure safe and effective instruction for all participants.