Rough Circle Wool Studio

The Farm to Fibre, Sheep to Textile Experience

Grown by nature. Shaped by hand.

Rough Circle is about regenerative farming, natural materials and contemporary design. It is a working, certified organic, family farm in Co. Carlow, Ireland. Alongside this is the creative wool studio where agriculture, craft and design come together. Working with wool grown by the flock of rare-breed sheep, I explore the potential of this remarkable natural fibre through experimental textiles, handcrafted objects and immersive learning experiences. My approach begins with the land and follows the fibre through every stage of its journey, connecting soil health, animal welfare, material quality and thoughtful design.

The farm is where it all begins.

FARM. Our small, certified organic farm is home to a flock of Valais Blacknose, and Herdwick sheep raised within a regenerative grassland system. Healthy soil supports diverse pasture. Diverse pasture supports healthy animals, and healthy animals produce beautiful wool. By considering farming and design as parts of the same process, we aim to make the most of everything the land produces, finding useful and imaginative applications for wool of different grades and qualities. It is a practical exploration of circularity, where materials are valued, resources are respected and waste is minimised.

From soil, to sheep, to textile.

LEARN. There is something deeply satisfying about working with wool, particularly when you know the animals and landscape it comes from. The workshops offer an opportunity to experience the complete journey from sheep to textile, combining an understanding of farming and fibre with hands-on creative practice. Learn to felt, weave and explore natural materials in small groups in the riverside studio, surrounded by the sheep that produce the wool. Whether you are a complete beginner, an experienced maker or simply curious about natural fibres, there is something to discover.

A different way of thinking about materials.

MAKE. Wool is an extraordinary material. Renewable, versatile and full of character, its possibilities extend far beyond conventional textiles. Here I work with the natural colours, textures and qualities of each fleece, using minimal processing and allowing the material to retain its individual character. From sculptural felt and woven textiles to functional objects for the home, the work combines traditional techniques with contemporary design thinking.

Why Rough Circle?

The name reflects three interconnected circles: a return to my creative roots in materials and making, the nature of the farm and studio as a biocircular microenterprise, and the roughly circular island formed by the River Barrow and canal at the foot of the hill. A name rooted in both personal journey and place.

Rough Circle was founded by me, designer Christine Jordan, who looked at a pile of white curls freshly piled up after my two lambs were first shorn and I was instantly inspired to investigate further - bringing together a 35 year background experience in industrial design, craft, food and agriculture. The studio is both a working creative practice, and a place for experimentation - questioning how we grow, process, use and value natural materials. Rooted in the landscape of the River Barrow, Rough Circle Studio connects traditional knowledge with new ideas for a more resourceful and regenerative future.

Learn. Make. Experience.