Targhee Sheep: The Unsung Hero of the Spinning World
When it comes to spinning the perfect yarn, fiber choice is everything. Some wools are too coarse, others too delicate, but nestled in that sweet spot of softness, elasticity, and durability is Targhee wool—a fiber that deserves a prime spot on every spinner’s wheel.
Whether you’re a seasoned spinner or just starting, Targhee wool offers a luxurious experience without the finicky nature of some finer wools. But what makes it so special? Let’s break it down.
Targhee Sheep in the USA: A Homegrown Fiber Powerhouse
Targhee sheep are one of the few truly American-bred sheep breeds, developed to meet the unique demands of Western ranching while producing high-quality wool. Their story is one of innovation, resilience, and adaptability—qualities that make them as valuable today as they were nearly a century ago.
A Breed Born in the American West
Targhee sheep were first bred in 1926 at the USDA Sheep Experiment Station in Dubois, Idaho. The goal was to create a dual-purpose breed that could thrive in the harsh, high-altitude conditions of the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Great Basin. To do this, scientists carefully crossbred Rambouillet, Corriedale, and Lincoln sheep, selecting for traits like:
✔ Fine wool quality (from Rambouillet)
✔ Strong, medium-length fiber (from Corriedale)
✔ Larger body size for meat production (from Lincoln)
The breed was named after the Targhee National Forest in Idaho, where many of the early flocks were raised.
Why Targhee Sheep Are Perfect for the American West
Unlike some European sheep breeds that struggle in extreme weather, Targhee sheep were designed for rugged landscapes. They are highly adaptable, hardy, and excellent foragers, making them ideal for large-scale grazing in states like Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas.
Some key advantages of Targhee sheep for American ranchers include:
✔ Strong maternal instincts – Ewes are prolific and raise healthy lambs.
✔ Efficient grazing – They thrive on natural rangelands with minimal input.
✔ Resilience in tough climates – They handle cold winters and dry summers well.
✔ Dual-purpose value – They provide both premium wool and quality meat.
Targhee Wool: A Staple of the U.S. Fiber Industry
While Targhee sheep were originally bred for both wool and meat, their fiber quickly gained a reputation for being some of the finest domestic wool available. Today, Targhee wool is one of the most sought-after American-grown fibers for hand spinners, knitters, and weavers.
The United States produces a significant amount of Targhee wool, much of it processed domestically at mills specializing in fine and medium wool. Targhee fleece is prized by indie dyers, boutique fiber mills, and hand-spinning enthusiasts because of its incredible softness, bounce, and versatility.
Targhee Sheep Associations & Conservation
The breed is actively promoted and managed by organizations like the U.S. Targhee Sheep Association (USTSA), which was founded in 1951. The association works to:
✔ Maintain breed standards for wool quality and conformation.
✔ Support ranchers and breeders in expanding their flocks.
✔ Promote the use of American Targhee wool in fiber arts.
While not considered a rare breed, Targhee sheep are still a niche breed compared to Merino or Suffolk. Supporting Targhee wool helps keep American fiber farms thriving and promotes sustainable, high-quality wool production within the U.S.
Where to Find Targhee Wool in the USA
If you’re looking to get your hands on American Targhee wool, check out:
✔ Small farms and fiber co-ops – Many independent ranches sell fleece, roving, and yarn directly to fiber artists.
✔ Fiber festivals and wool markets – Events like Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival and Estes Park Wool Market often have Targhee vendors.
✔ Indie dyers and spinning suppliers – Many hand-dyers love working with Targhee for its vibrant color absorption.
Targhee sheep are a true American success story—a breed created for resilience, productivity, and exceptional fiber quality. Whether you’re a spinner, knitter, or fiber enthusiast, supporting Targhee wool means supporting sustainable, homegrown American agriculture.
Why Spinners Love Targhee Wool
1. Unbelievable Softness (Without the Fuss)
With a micron count between 22-25, Targhee wool is incredibly soft—right in the same range as fine Merino. But unlike Merino, which can sometimes be slippery or hard to control, Targhee has a bit more texture and grip, making it easier to spin for beginners and pros alike.
2. Elasticity That Creates the Perfect Bounce
One of the standout features of Targhee wool is its natural spring and elasticity. This means yarn spun from Targhee has a beautiful, lively bounce, creating garments that hold their shape and resist sagging over time. It’s the ultimate fiber for cozy sweaters, hats, and socks that need to maintain structure.
3. Lofty, Light, and Warm
Targhee fleece is known for its high crimp, which gives the fiber a lofty feel and excellent warmth. It traps air efficiently, making it an excellent choice for insulating winter wear without being overly heavy.
4. Takes Dye Beautifully
If you love experimenting with color, Targhee is a dream to work with. Its fine, even structure allows it to soak up dye vibrantly and evenly, giving you rich, deep hues with stunning tonal variation.
5. A Joy to Spin (Especially for Worsted & Woolen Yarns)
Because of its soft crimp and moderate staple length (about 3-5 inches), Targhee is highly versatile. It works beautifully for both worsted spinning (smooth, strong yarns) and woolen spinning (light, airy yarns), making it an adaptable choice for different projects.
6. Durable Yet Soft—The Best of Both Worlds
Unlike some ultra-fine wools that pill easily, Targhee holds up well over time. The longer staple length and elastic nature of the fiber make it durable without sacrificing softness, which is ideal for high-use items like mittens, socks, and baby garments.
Best Uses for Targhee Yarn
Targhee is perfect for:
✔ Cozy sweaters and cardigans
✔ Warm, bouncy socks
✔ Snuggly scarves and hats
✔ Lightweight but warm shawls
✔ Durable mittens and gloves
Final Thoughts: Why Targhee Wool Deserves a Spot in Your Stash
Targhee wool is a perfect blend of softness, strength, and bounce, making it one of the best all-around fibers for spinners. Whether you’re looking for a forgiving wool to practice with or a high-performance fiber for your next project, Targhee delivers.
If you haven’t spun with Targhee yet, you’re missing out—so grab a braid, load up your wheel, and see why this fiber has become a cult favorite among hand spinners!
