Blue Thistle Fibers’ mountain roots run deep- from the Appalachians up through the Adirondacks. Six generations of mountain people living, working, loving, and dying in the craggy hills, forests, and glacial lakes of America’s highlands.  As we move into the second half of the year, we’re thinking about new colors that highlight the oranges, reds & yellows of fall maple leaves, greens of the tall pines, spruces & oaks, and the deep blue blacks of the lake that has nourished our family for generations.  We come from dairy and sheep, sugarmen, and lumberjacks who called the deep woods of the North Country home. We are lucky enough to have family property nestled in the woods next to the cold waters of a glacial lake.  Over the next few months, I’m taking inspiration to bring new colorways for fall and winter. I’d love to share what is inspiring me.

Over the last ten days, our team at Blue Thistle Fibers has zig-zagged across western Ireland. We’ve been over hill & dale exploring the woolen traditions of the West Coast while also reconnecting with our ancestors in County Mayo.

Our host, Leo Murphy, has provided an exceptional experience for us, sharing his years of experience as a Connemara farmer.

If you’re lucky enough to come to Ireland, be sure to go to Galway and the surrounding areas. The lodge Leo and his wife run is well suited for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and the region. (See the AirBnB link below for their lodge).

We’ve been inspired by the gorgeous colors of Ireland and are so excited to share them with you in our naturally dyed yarns over the coming year.  For now, we’ll offer you a sneak peek of some of the sights and sounds from our trip.

Sara & Clare @Blue Thistle Fibers