these hand tanned sheepskins are tanned using the mineral method (alum) by ingrid stalman of sandy ridge farm and are a byproduct of her family’s meat farm. every sheepskin is entirely unique and one-of-a-kind. the mane is characteristic of the romanov breed.

hand tanning is an incredibly labour-intensive process and an important part of the local fibreshed movement. each hide takes multiple weeks to process with each step (after raising the sheep for months/years), and the scraping process itself takes multiple days. these investment pieces should stand the test of time and be heirloom pieces to pass down through family generations when cared for properly.

wondering how to use your sheepskin? there are oodles of options, and here are just a few suggestions:

• use it as a camping roll to keep you warm and comfortable

• line a baby’s crib with it

• use as a barrier against bedsores for anyone who has mobility limitations and experiences skin issues as a result

• plop it on your favourite chair

• cover a wooden bench to make your tush happy

• use as a car seat cover for long road trips (or just a run to the local store)

learn more about the history and process of tanning from this interview with mara cur of fern & roe.