Tenant Spotlight
Sarah Turner, founder of Little Beau Sheep
Most people think wool belongs on sheep or in jumpers. I've spent the last ten years proving it belongs in everyday life.
Founded in 2015, Little Beau Sheep is an award-winning Yorkshire manufacturer creating sheep-inspired laundry care, body care and gift products using British wool and lanolin.
Working with farmers, mills and manufacturers across the UK, they transform an often-overlooked natural resource into products used in homes every day, while helping tell the story of British wool.
What inspired you to start the business?
The business began after I discovered wool dryer balls while searching for a natural alternative to fabric conditioner. What started as a simple home hack quickly became something much bigger.
I became fascinated by British wool and the challenge of finding new ways to use it. At a time when much of the UK's wool was considered low value, I saw an opportunity to create products that would help people reconnect with this sustainable, renewable fibre.
What makes Little Beau Sheep different?
Everything we do starts with British wool. We are passionate about supporting local manufacturing and keeping as much of our production as possible within Yorkshire and the UK.
Alongside our own product range, we also work with farms and estates to transform their own wool into bespoke products, helping them add value to an often-underused natural resource while sharing the story behind their flock.
What have been some highlights of the journey so far?
There have been many memorable moments, including appearing on BBC Countryfile, delivering a TEDx Talk about British wool and exhibiting at trade shows across the UK.
Most recently, Little Beau Sheep won the national Supply Chain Champion Award at The Small Awards 2026, recognising our work with farmers, mills and independent businesses throughout the British wool supply chain.
Article: https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/business/how-a-leeds-mother-turned-a-home-hack-craft-into-an-award-winning-wool-business-8686383
Why did you choose to base your business at the International Development Centre, Ilkley?
The International Development Centre feels like a particularly fitting home for Little Beau Sheep. The building was originally home to the International Wool Secretariat, placing us at the heart of a site with a rich connection to the wool industry.
What's next for Little Beau Sheep?
As we celebrate our tenth anniversary, our mission remains unchanged: to help people rediscover the value of British wool.
This autumn I'll be launching the 90-Day Wool Habit, a personal challenge to wear the same British wool dress every day for 90 days and explore whether a single habit can change the way we think about clothing, consumption and natural fibres. Find out more: www.littlebeausheep.com/90-day-wool-habit/
We're also continuing to develop new collaborations with farms and estates across the UK, creating innovative wool-based products and helping turn an undervalued natural resource into something people genuinely value and use.