All About Wool

Wool is wonderful for keeping you warm. It is made into yarn and fabrics that don't need too much ironing, It has a natural ‘crimp' which allows fibres to cluster together for insulation. The crimps in the fibres give woolen garments the stretchy quality that allows them to return to their original shape. It is also very absorbent with flame retardant properties, although it doesn't always fare too well in the washing machine.

Wool comes mostly from shearing sheep. The fleece is washed and scrubbed after shearing to remove all dirt and natural oils. The wool is then ‘carded', this is done in order to get all of the fibres running the same direction. After this the wool is combed through to separates the fibres into lengths of up to 2 inches.

The shorter fibres are used to create yarn for fuzzy woolen bulky knits and tweeds, the longer fibres are better used in suiting fabric (worsteds) and fine sweaters. Also important is the diameter/width of woolen fibres, the thicker fibres are used in carpets and upholstery, only the finer fibres are suitable for clothing.

Wool can also be obtained from other animals such as camels, goats and alpacas.

Mohair comes from the Angora goat which originates from the Himalayas. These goats, which have now been imported all over the world, produce resilient wool with a real shine, although when woven looks identical to sheep's wool.

Angora fur actually comes from rabbits, this is the exceptionally soft wool found in expensive sweaters.

Cashmere comes from mountain goats in the Kashmir region of India, these fibres have a very small diameter with lots of crimp which makes garments made from this super soft and warm yet light and airy feeling.