The Holidays get Hairy: Ferndale Crafter find creative use for pet hair

Ferndale, Ca., (KIEM)- Once a year Donell McAnless joins other artisans at the Ferndale Veteran’s Memorial Building for one of Humboldt County’s many holiday craft bazaars.

Her craft some might find bizarre. Years ago McAnless took her first spinning class (learning to make yarn). Her teacher brought in poodle hair for students to use. McAnless thought the concept was strange at the time, but she’s now a seasoned spinner of pet hair.

At Saturday’s craft fair she sold hats, finger-less gloves and other knitted products made from cat and dog fur. McAnless says she finds husky hair especially good for knitting, and claims her fabrics are warmer than wool.