Who We Are
Rooted in New York Wool
Genesee Valley Woolworks is a working fiber mill in Western New York dedicated to producing premium rug yarns, weaving kits, and tools made from regionally sourced wool.
We believe great materials begin with place.
New York has a long history of sheep farming and textile production. We work directly with farms across the region to source clean, well-raised fleeces — many participating in the NY Grown & Certified program — and process them here in small batches.
When you purchase from us, you’re supporting local agriculture, regional fiber infrastructure, and the revival of domestic wool processing.
From Fleece to Finished Yarn
Every batch of wool is handled in-house.
We skirt, wash, card, spin, and finish on traditional Belfast equipment — allowing us to control quality from raw fleece to final product. Small-batch production gives us the ability to adjust tension, twist, and structure so the yarn performs the way it should.
We focus primarily on natural wool tones — creamy whites, warm browns, soft grays — colors that belong in a home for decades, not seasons. Botanical dye options such as indigo and walnut complement these natural shades without overwhelming them.
This is wool as it is meant to be: substantial, breathable, durable.
Built for Useful Objects
We don’t make decorative novelty yarn.
We make materials meant to become rugs, placemats, and pieces that are walked on, used daily, and built to last.
Our core-spun rug yarns are designed for strength and structure.
Our peg looms are designed and built in-house from hardwood.
Our kits are designed so beginners can succeed — and experienced makers can produce work they’re proud of.
We believe natural fiber should serve a purpose.
Supporting Regional Fiber
The American wool system has thinned over decades. Mills have closed. Infrastructure has disappeared. Farmers often struggle to find viable markets for their fiber.
We’re working to rebuild that chain — even in a small way.
By sourcing New York wool and processing it here, we help keep value within the region. Our goal is not scale for scale’s sake, but sustainability — for farms, for makers, and for the craft itself.
Slow Materials in a Fast World
There is something grounding about weaving.
The rhythm.
The weight of wool in your hands.
The transformation from fiber to something functional.
In a fast world full of disposable materials, we believe in making things slowly — and making them well.
Whether you’re weaving your first rug or refining your craft, we’re here to provide materials worthy of your time.
Visit the Mill
Genesee Valley Woolworks operates as a working mill and small retail space in Western New York. We welcome visitors during scheduled events and fiber trail weekends.
If you’re curious how wool becomes yarn — from raw fleece to finished bump — we invite you to follow along.