Sheep Shearing at Amazigh KM 0: The First Step in Rug Making
Amazigh KM 0, the heartland of our Amazigh heritage, is nestled 36 km from Khemisset on the road to Meknes. The journey takes us through the rolling countryside, and after reaching Sfassif, an 8 km dirt track leads us deeper into the rural landscape—where tradition and nature harmoniously coexist.
It’s the end of Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the close of Ramadan, and we take this opportunity to visit family. A special occasion awaits us: sheep shearing, the first step in the centuries-old craft of Amazigh rug-making.
A Seasonal Tradition: The Arrival of Summer
With summer approaching, the rising temperatures signal an important time for shepherds: the shearing season. The thick fleece that protected the sheep throughout the cold months must now be removed, ensuring the animals stay cool in the heat of the Moroccan sun. This practice, passed down for generations, is not only essential for the well-being of the sheep but also marks the beginning of a long and intricate process—transforming raw wool into the beautifully woven rugs that carry the soul of Amazigh artistry.
The Shearing Process: A Skillful Craft
As dawn breaks, the shearers gather before sunrise. By 7 AM, the work begins. The sheep, waiting patiently in the pen, are brought forward one by one. Their legs are gently tied to keep them steady, and the shearers, armed with large, sharp scissors, get to work.
Unlike industrialized wool production, no electrical machines are used here. The process remains entirely manual, preserving both tradition and the integrity of the wool. The shearers, with steady hands and years of expertise, carefully remove the fleece in smooth, practiced motions—ensuring that the wool remains in long, clean sections, ready for the next stage of preparation.
From Wool to Weaving: The First Step in Rug Making
Once the shearing is complete, the freshly gathered wool is carefully stacked into a pile. This raw material, still bearing the scent of the countryside, will soon undergo cleaning, carding, and spinning before finally being woven into the vibrant, hand-knotted rugs that define Amazigh craftsmanship. But that is a story for another time.
For now, the flocks of sheep, freshly sheared, roam freely—ready to embrace the Moroccan summer. The cycle of nature continues, and with it, the enduring traditions of Amazigh artistry and culture.
