Wool – The Natural Fiber with True Grit

Wool is a natural fiber harvested from sheep and other animals like goats, alpacas, and rabbits. It has unique properties that make it ideal for clothing, upholstery, and other textiles.

Wool fibers have a scaly, crimped structure that allows them to cling together and felt. This gives wool fabrics their durability, resilience, and ability to retain warmth. Wool is also naturally elastic and flame resistant.

The finest wool comes from Merino sheep, originally from Spain. Merino wool is ultra-fine, soft, and perfect for next-to-skin clothing like underwear and base layers. Other sheep breeds, like Rambouillet and Navajo-Churro, produce excellent quality wool as well. Alpaca fleece rivals the warmth, softness, and shine of wool. Certain specialty goats, like the Cashmere, Angora, and Pygora goats, produce fibers classified as wool.

Wool can be divided into two main types:

• Fine wool – Fibers less than 24 microns in diameter, usually from Merino breeds. Used for suits, dresses, hosiery.
• Coarse wool – Fibers over 24 microns from non-Merino breeds. Used for blankets, rugs, outerwear.

The wool is sheared from sheep during spring. It is cleaned, graded, and then processed into yarn and fabric. Wool fabrics include tweed, flannel, gabardine, crepe, and melton. Merino wool makes fine worsted suit fabrics like tropical wool. Wool fiber is also blended with other fibers like cashmere, silk, nylon, and polyester for varied properties.

The natural elasticity and insulation of wool makes it perfect for sweaters and cold weather clothing. It resists wrinkles and odors. Wool carpeting is durable and fire-resistant. With proper care, wool textiles can last for decades, making wool a wise investment for lifetime wear and use.

Caring for Wool Fabrics and Garments

Wool is a remarkable natural fiber, but it requires proper care and handling to keep it looking its best. Here are some key tips for caring for wool clothing and fabrics:

Washing Wool

• Handwash or use a gentle wash cycle in cool water. Avoid hot water which can shrink and felt wool.
• Use a mild detergent made for delicates or woolens. Harsh soaps can damage fibers.
• Soak the garment briefly, gently swish, and rinse thoroughly in cool water.
• Dry wool flat, never twist or wring it. Shape and lay flat to dry.
• Dry clean for wool suits, coats, and delicate fabrics. Select a dry cleaner who is experienced with wool.

Storing Wool

• Fold woolens neatly and store flat in breathable cotton or linen. Avoid plastic bags.
• Use cedar closet liners or sachets to repel moths. Be sure wool is thoroughly clean before storing.
• Store offseason wool garments cleaned and protected from moths. Refresh by airing out before wearing.

Avoiding Damage

• Heat can shrink and felt wool. Use a cool iron or steamer, if needed.
• Wool is weakened by chlorine bleach and other harsh chemicals. Use oxygen bleach if needed.
• Pilling is normal with wear. Remove pills gently by shaving or with a sweater comb.
• Guard against moths. Have wool professionally cleaned periodically.

With proper care, wool garments can last for many years. Handwashing, air drying, and storing wool properly will help maintain its beauty and longevity. Protecting wool from moths, excess heat, and harsh chemicals is also essential. Showing wool some extra care allows us to enjoy its natural comfort and durability.