Gyapjút

Gyapjút, in Hungarian, denotes the wool obtained from domestic sheep. It is used to produce a wide range of textiles and related products, including clothing, blankets, and felted crafts. The fiber is primarily keratin, with a scaly cuticle and a crimp that provides elasticity. It contains natural oils such as lanolin and can store moisture while remaining warm. Fineness and quality depend on breed: merino wool is particularly fine; other types include carpet wool and coarse wools. Natural colors range from white to brown and black; most commercial wool is white or light-colored and dyed.

Production of gyapjút begins with annual shearing, after which the fleece is cleaned (scoured) to remove grease and dirt, then carded and combed to align fibers, spun into yarn, and woven or knitted into fabrics. Some wool is processed into felt directly.

Uses include clothing and knitwear, blankets, carpets, upholstery, and insulation; felt is used in hats, crafts, and industrial applications.

Sustainability and trade: Wool is a renewable, biodegradable fiber. Responsible farming reduces environmental impacts. Major producers include Australia and New Zealand, with processing and consumption distributed globally.

History and culture: Wool has a long history in textile production across Europe and Asia. In Hungary, traditional crafts include wool felting and knitting, reflecting the enduring role of gyapjút in local textile heritage.