14 Aug Woolgatherer Carding Mill
Preserving Tradition, Crafting the Future
Tucked in the Pacific Northwest, Woolgatherer Carding Mill is more than a wool processor. It’s a story of passion, preservation, and purpose.
Founded in 1999 by Patrick Holland, the mill’s journey began with a simple love for animals. After acquiring a few sheepdogs and becoming a shepherd, Patrick found himself with an abundance of wool and a vision for something greater.
Patrick’s creative soul and affinity for poetry inspired the name “Woolgatherer,” an old-fashioned word for daydreaming, and a perfect fit for a man who built a dream out of heritage fiber. The mill’s first big break came through a chance meeting with Eliana Jantz of Shepherd’s Dream, who was seeking high-quality wool batting for natural bedding. That spark ignited a legacy of craftsmanship and sustainability that continues today.
What Makes Woolgatherer Unique?
At the heart of the operation is a vintage 1917 Davis & Furber carding machine. This machine is still in operation and turning out what many consider the fluffiest, cleanest wool batting in the country. This machine hearkens back to a simpler time before manufacturing heavily relied on technology and focused on maximum efficiency. “It reminds us of the importance of craftsmanship and an honest day’s labor. The US wool industry is experiencing a slow decline, and it’s sad to see this piece of Americana dwindle. We’re proud to keep that spirit alive,” says owner Hank Kearns. Their flagship product, EcoWool®, is processed with care, using responsible, ethical practices from pasture to product.
Woolgatherer’s commitment to quality begins with the growers they partner with. “The best wool comes from well-cared-for sheep.” Sourcing from U.S. family farms, they prioritize rotational grazing, organic land management, and humane animal treatment. Kearns continues, “we support and uphold the Five Domains model for animal welfare: nutrition, environment, health, behavioral interactions, and mental state. We have a set standard for our wool at the outset of procurement that helps us find the right people.” Woolgatherer’s procurement process follows strict standards and includes OEKO-TEX-certified chemical testing for peace of mind and product integrity.
A Sustainable, Natural Fiber for Modern Makers
What makes wool so special? It’s renewable, biodegradable, and excellent at regulating temperature and moisture. As public awareness grows around plastic waste and microplastics, wool is enjoying a well-deserved resurgence in textiles, construction, and beyond.
Woolgatherer’s products are sought after by mattress and bedding manufacturers, high-end furniture makers, fine artists, and many eco-conscious brands. Wool is also naturally fire resistance, making it an ideal replacement for chemical-laden alternatives in conventional mattresses or home insulation.
It also turns up in unexpected places, from bespoke audio studios and garden soil amendments, to sleeping bags. And supporting local businesses is a bonus. “Being able to source wool from the US is an important feature for many manufacturers, and we help them satisfy their customers’ concerns around sustainability and health.”
While wool can be a luxuriously soft and resilient material, but it’s important to work with an experienced wool processor. “It is sometimes easy to forget that it can be a little tricky to process in comparison to other fibers. Static charge can give folks all kinds of problems if not proactively managed from the beginning,” explains Kearns. That’s why Woolgatherer’s deep expertise and time-tested equipment are essential for turning raw wool into the high-quality, versatile material trusted by makers across industries.
Looking Ahead and Supporting the U.S. Wool Industry
Woolgatherer is expanding its offerings, including private label and finished goods manufacturing. With renewed brand materials and a growing network of like-minded collaborators, the future looks bright for this nostalgic, forward-thinking mill. And consumers can help sustain the U.S. wool industry by supporting brands that source domestically and use EcoWool®. Look for it in mattresses, bedding, furniture, apparel, craft kits, and fiber art.
At its core, Woolgatherer is about connection between land and maker, tradition and innovation, and people and planet. Kearns concludes, “I appreciate the connection we have with the small family farms, folks making a living much like their great-great grandparents. I am happy to be able to participate in a very timeless trade that is connected to the land and has so much positive impact.”
You can learn more about Woolgatherer and EcoWool® on their website at thewoolgatherer.com