Spindle & Claw

Wild. Warm. Weird.

Shop Wild Fibers

Custom Pet Yarn

Wild Fiber Courses

What is wild fiber?

Our wild fiber, simply put, is fiber harvested from wildlife! We primarily work with North American wildlife fibers harvested from the downy undercoats of fur-bearing species such as wolf, bear, mountain goat, and more.

Where do we source our fiber?

None of our fiber comes from animals hunted or exploited solely for their fiber. Our wild fibers are typically sourced from damaged or antique taxidermy and pelts, fur coats, furrier scrap, and road casualties. We also are occasionally able to source fiber from live animals cared for by reputable sanctuaries, accredited zoos, and private owners!

Our journey

Spindle & Claw got its start in our small home tannery in North Carolina, that later shifted to include working with more traditional natural textiles. Our work with wild fibers was born from a long-time interest in natural textiles, ethical sourcing, and an appreciation for handmade natural products. This all started with a (very) antique spinning wheel and a super soft opossum hide that longed to be more.

Wild Fiber Compendium

Every wild fiber has unique properties – not only between species, but between individuals of each species. 


Learn more about the different types of wild fiber we have worked with.

History of Wild Fiber

Wild fiber has been around since long before the domestication of the modern day sheep – we are hardly the first to explore it.

 

Learn more about the people responsible for modern day natural textiles.