Seven years ago, Linda Bergstrom, owner of Bergstrom Farms, made a lifelong dream a reality by starting a fiber farm. As an art teacher and crafter, Linda has always been fascinated by the idea of tracing material back to its source while being a part of every step in the process. Now, that dream is a reality. Discover the joy of barn to yarn and the invaluable lessons learned from being a part of the alpaca community with Bergstrom Farms.
Why Alpacas?
I have wanted to start a fiber farm for about 30 years, and have always been intrigued by the idea of taking fiber from barn to yarn. I knew that I wanted sheep and goats, and after talking to my friend Diena Riddle, she introduced me to alpacas. I fell in love with them!
How did you get into the world of alpacas?
I've wanted to have a fiber farm for many years. I finally moved to a place with some property and was able to get Icelandic sheep, Angora goats, alpacas, as well as chickens and bees. I have been an art teacher for 20+ years and know how to spin and weave. I have always been intrigued with the idea of barn-to-yarn, so I figured a fiber farm was the best fit for me.
Tell us about your farm.
My small fiber farm is in Bluffdale, Utah. We do a lot of agritourism and I teach fiber-related art classes in a vintage trailer. I love teaching all ages about alpaca fiber, how to make yarn, weaving, and how to make wearable items.
What do you do with your animal's fiber?
I usually have the mill make rovings that I hand spin into yarn, or the mill will make yarn and dryer balls for me. I often hand-dye some of the yarn with natural dyes from my garden. All of these items I sell in my farm store, open farm events, or at local yarn shops. I teach many fiber-related classes with the yarn from our animals.
What is one of your most memorable moments with your alpacas?
I was able to watch the birth of our youngest alpaca, 5-year-old Archie, via Zoom while I was teaching an art class on my farm. My mentor, Diena, called to say Archie was being born and asked if I wanted to watch it. So my class of 20 students watched Archie being born, it was magical!
Why is being a member of AOA and an affiliate important?
To be able to talk to other alpaca owners is so critical when trying to manage your farm and herd. Getting together for events and activities is something I look forward to, as well as being able to serve on the board of directors for our affiliate, IMpaca. I have been on the AOA fiber and marketing committees and have thoroughly enjoyed it. This is a great way to get to know other alpaca owners who have many years of experience and are willing to share it.
Do you have any advice for new alpaca owners?
Get involved in AOA and your local affiliates. Make friends with other alpaca owners, utilize your mentor, and don't be afraid to ask questions. We are all in the process of learning new things about our animals, and we do different things with our fiber and breeding. Embrace the differences within our alpaca community!
For those who are curious to learn more about Bergstrom Farms, you can visit their Instagram and Website.
Take the chance to be featured. Fill out the form, and let your story be the inspiration that propels others on their unique journeys. Membership Monday awaits, and it could be the stepping stone to new opportunities, growth, and connections, in your personal and professional life. Embrace the opportunity and let your story shine.