About Us

We are Ashen Wensleydales run by James Perry (Longdrawjames) and his long time friend and business partner, Claire Elliott. 

We originated as a flock of black wensleydale sheep in the South East of the UK. Since then, we have grown to become the worlds largest purebred, pedigree flock of black wensleydales.

James has been in the fibre arts for longer than he hasn't, with over two decades of experience. He is an incredibly experienced handspinner and teacher who has over 25 published articles to his name. James is also a chemist with a PhD specialising in detergents for wool scouring. He also knits, weaves and woodturns. 
He is also an internationally recognised fibre arts teacher and teaches a wide range of classes, all of which always have excellent reviews! 

Claire is also an experienced spinner and has been spinning and knitting for almost as long as James. Claire is responsible for the sheep side of Ashen Wensleydales, but also assists James in the running of the day to day business activities. 

James handles all of the technical side to the wheels, with Claire handling more of the shipping and handling side. By email both James and Claire reply to emails. We can’t wait to hear from you all!