Carmen Ursic: The woman behind Patagonia's best Merino wool

Introduction

Women are an integral part of the social fabric that produces wool and textiles. That's why we want to highlight and inspire you with stories of women who participate in different steps of our wool production. This March, we present the story of Carmen Ursic, a dedicated and innovative woman who has transformed her family's ranch into a producer of the finest Merino wool in Patagonia. As a leader in a male-dominated industry, Carmen has faced and overcome numerous challenges to make a name for herself and her business.

Leading the family ranch

Her story as a rancher began when she took over the management of her family's ranch, Estancia María Cristina, after her father's passing. Initially, the ranch only had Corriedale sheep. However, in the 70s, facing declining prices for coarser wool and increasing demand for finer wools, Carmen studied the international market and the possibilities of sustaining the ranch with sustainable and value-added production. This is how she decided to innovate and completely switch production to Merino sheep. This bold move, along with the efforts of some other sheep farms, paved the way for the production of high-quality Merino wool in Chilean Patagonia today.

Do you know where Estancia María Cristina is? In Tierra del Fuego, at the End of the World.

Challenges faced by women in the wool industry

As a woman in a predominantly male industry, Carmen faced several difficulties in her pursuit of success. Traditionally, the wool industry has been led by men, and women often encounter barriers in terms of access to resources, education, and professional opportunities. For Carmen, entering this industry meant overcoming stereotypes and demonstrating her abilities as a business leader and innovator.

Innovations and ethical practices

Carmen understood the importance of good pastures for producing high-quality wool. By implementing sustainable grazing practices, she was able to maintain healthy pastures, which directly influences the quality of her Merino wool. Additionally, Carmen recognized the positive impact of animal welfare on wool quality, and her commitment to the ethical treatment of her sheep results in superior wool products. Carmen's focus on sustainable and responsible wool production practices also plays a vital role in protecting and maintaining biodiversity in Patagonia. By emphasizing environmentally conscious practices, she ensures that her farm coexists harmoniously with the natural environment, preserving the unique ecosystem of Chilean Patagonia.

What makes Maria Cristina Ranch's Merino unique?

The Merino wool from Maria Cristina sheep farm meets the main concerns you have as a knitter or crocheter:

• Softness, breathability, and warmth: With 20 microns or less, the wool is incredibly soft, warm, and breathable, providing unparalleled comfort and insulation.
• Durability: The fine fibers of Merino wool make it exceptionally durable, ensuring that garments created with Bagual yarn will last for many years.
• Sustainability: The wool is produced sustainably, with an emphasis on good pasture management and animal welfare, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
• Price: As a premium product, we can assure you that you will have a unique experience knitting with these skeins and that your garments will accompany you for many years.

Recognition and success

Carmen's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, the Merino wool produced at Estancia María Cristina was recognized as the best Merino wool in Chilean Patagonia. This recognition is a testament to Carmen's hard work, passion, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Merino wool fleece from Estancia María Cristina received first place as the best Merino wool at ExpoGama 2023.

Through her journey, Carmen Ursic has achieved excellence while balancing high-quality production and wool, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. We are convinced that she is a role model for other women and, undoubtedly, also for men, who aspire to succeed in the wool industry.

Carmen Ursic's story demonstrates the power of perseverance and determination to overcome the challenges faced by women in the wool industry. By embracing innovation, focusing on ethical and sustainable practices, and making bold decisions such as transitioning to Merino wool production, she has established herself as a leader in producing the finest Merino wool in Patagonia. Her achievements are an inspiration to women worldwide striving to break down barriers and make their mark in male-dominated industries. By choosing to purchase Bagual Merino wool, which sources its wool from Carmen Ursic's María Cristina sheep farm, you are not only supporting a sustainable and ethical business but also empowering a pioneering woman in the industry.

From the Merino wool of Estancia María Cristina, Bagual produces our Patagonian Merino in Light Fingering, Sport, and Worsted weights. This wool allows you to knit incredible garments!

 

 

Irish-style vest knitted with Patagonian Merino wool in Worsted weight. This design was developed in collaboration with Chilean designer Elisa (@elisatejidos) and is available for you to knit at this LINK

Cardigan knitted with Patagonian Merino wool in Sport weight. The design is called Love Note and was created by designer @tincanknits. The garment was knitted and modeled by Rocío (@mamizejue)

Cardigan knitted with Patagonian Merino wool in Worsted weight. The design is called Single Malt and was created by designer Max @maxtheknitter. The garment was knitted and modeled by Inti (@bagualwool)

 

If you haven't yet discovered our Merino wool skeins, we invite you to explore our color palette, and if you already know them, we want to inspire you to knit more with this wonderful wool and be part of this story that begins with Carmen Ursic in Tierra del Fuego, in Chilean Patagonia.