FAQs
Support of First Nations Peoples
Nomad Farms is on Ngarrindjeri Country. We financially contribute to Aboriginal owned and run organisations on an ongoing basis. This is one of the ways that we try to show our support for the First Nations people of this country, the organisations and their ability and contribution they have towards improving the lives and land of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
What is regenerative farming?
We’re always keen to talk regenerative farming! If you select the ‘read more’ options on our produce you will find more information about how our produce is regeneratively farmed specifically.
In a nut shell, to us regenerative farming is practices which build rather than deplete the resources on which they depend, be they ecological, social or economic.
What does pasture raised mean?
Animals which are raised (live on) fresh, live pasture. Our animals have continuous access to fresh grass and other plants, healthy, diverse and chemical free soil, sunshine and bugs. Our animals don’t just access the outdoors, they live in it.
What does grass fed mean?
Grazing animals that are fed grass, not grain. Our cattle and sheep are raised entirely on our organic chemical free, regeneratively managed pasture and are not fed grain at any stage in their production.
How is your wool made?
Our wool is grown, sheared and baled in SA. It is then scoured, carded, combed, spun and plyed in Victoria. We then hand dye the skeins with botanical plants, most of which we have foraged from our farm. Proudly none of our wool is super wash treated. The majority of super wash (aka easy care or machine washable wool) wool is coated in plastic resin, protecting the fibre from felting when agitated (machine washed). We do not produce super wash wool, our wool must be handled with care as all good wool should.
Why botanically dyed?
Since the industrial revolution, the toxic chemicals used in synthetic dyes and dye practices are responsible for irreparable damage to human and environmental systems the world over. We aim to offer an alternative and we get to harness natures local beauty in the process.
Crocking
Crocking is the the transfer of excess dye molecules from fibre to other surfaces. The mechanical action of knitting for example, and the heat and oils on your hands can draw out the final bits of unattached colour from the yarn. Some of our plant colours are more likely to crock than others, Indigo and dark Logwood the most. Crocking should settle after the first wash/blocking. If crocking is not at all for you, we suggest choosing lighter colours, you should always enjoy the time spent with your yarn.
To read more on crocking click here.
About pilling
All wool pills. Pilling is caused by friction so items under increased friction and harder use (ie my 2 year olds vest) pills much, a beanie will likely pill less. Superfine and super soft yarns (like ours) that are beautiful against the skin generally have a short crimp staple and looser twist, the fibres are then more likely to escape and cause pilling. Harder yarns can pill less, they are generally a bit scratchier and not so soft against your skin. It’s a tradeoff. Looser knits will also pill more, tighter gauge knits will pill less. So what can you do? If you want buttery soft wool and it pills too much for your liking, invest in a depilling device. We stock The Sweater Stone on our wool page and there are many available from pumice to electric fabric shaver and when used they make your garment look like new! But warning, it is a highly addictive practice.
Shipping and delivery
For all wool and pasture raised produce orders we charge $15 for shipping, free for orders over $300. Wool is shipped via standard Australia post and all meat orders are delivered in a refrigerated food grade vehicle on Wednesday, the Wednesday following your order (Thursday following a Monday public holiday). Market pick up is also available for free.
Who is Nomad Farms?
Nomad Farms is made up of a small bunch of motivated folk, who share a passion for regenerative agriculture and good produce. Founded and farmed by Tom Bradman, he is our main guy. Co-founder and partner Verity Slee runs the fibre show, both of us receiving endless guidance and distraction by daughters Laura, Sophia and Alice. Luke and Daniel work hard on the farm looking after the chickens, Daniel delivering produce all over town. John and Andrea Maidment are the friendly faces you see running our market stalls on the weekend.
We are forever grateful to our wonderful team here at Nomad Farms.
If you have any further queries please contact us at nomad@nomadfarms.com.au or complete the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
