Beginner farmers attended a sheep shearing training organized by the Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension at Singing Winds Farm in Silk Hope in mid-April. John Clouse of Rock Hill Farm demonstrates proper shearing technique for attentive apprentices Tes Thraves, Heather Lester, Kim Tungate, and Teresa Fischer.

Tes Thraves, Kim Tungate, Heather Lester, and Jacob Yow take their first shot at shearing after watching John.

John Clouse demonstrates for Heather Lester and Jacob Yow.

Kim Tungate and Tes Thraves watch John Clouse's technique.

Kim Tungate and Tes Thraves consult with John Clouse.

Amy Archie and Anita Olinga practice their technique.

Sisters Tabitha and Sarah Fischer practice on one of their sheep.

Teresa Fischer shows how to trim hooves.

Teresa Fischer, owner of Singing Winds Farm in Silk Hope, shows off the fleece sheared from one of her sheep during the training.