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October 04, 2018
Why Wool?
By: Lindsay Betz
Jacob
Navajo-Churro
Dan Roe's fleece (Romney)
There are many different fibers in the world, and each have their benefits. Let's take a look at what wool has to offer.
General Benefits of Wool:
- Hypo-allergenic: very few people have wool allergies.
- Durable: its elasticity helps your garments retain their shape. It also resists wrinkles.
- Fire-Resistant: lanolin makes it almost impossible for wool to catch fire.
- Biodegradable: over time, wool breaks down into the earth.
- Breathable: it helps you stay cool in summer and warm in winter and regulates body temperature.
- Moisture-resistant: don't worry about mold or mildew, or sweat!
- Beneficial to health: studies show that people with wool sleepwear or bedding sleep longer and more soundly.
In addition to the general benefits of wool, there are many different sheep breeds of different wool types with different wool types that offer their own unique benefits. Here are the different wool types:
- Fine: Exceptionally soft and great to wear close to skin. Purposes may include shawls, scarves, baby clothes, needle felting, and wet felting.
Examples: Merino, Cormo.
- Medium: Most versatile type.
Examples: Jacob, Columbia
- Long: Larger fiber diameter and longer staple. Can feel silky. Can be great to make outerwear.
Examples: Romney, Cotswold, Leicester.
- Carpet/Dual: Coarser protective outer coat with a fine or down undercoat. The rougher outer layer can be used for outerwear, carpets, and rugs. When separated, the undercoat can be used for more delicate creations.
Examples: Navajo-Churro, Icelandic, Shetland.
The many varieties of sheep and their wool create nearly endless possibilities!
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