sheepwool

Sheepwool is the natural fiber shed by domestic sheep (Ovis aries) and collected during the annual shearing. It has long been used in textiles for warmth, durability, and comfort. Wool fibers are protein-based keratin and contain natural waxes such as lanolin, which are removed during scouring. The fiber varies in diameter (microns), crimp, and staple length, yielding a range of fabrics from fine, soft wools to coarse, rugged wools for carpets and upholstery.

Processing typically begins with cleaning to remove grease and dirt, followed by carding to align fibers. For many yarns, combing produces a parallel fiber for worsted spinning; other wool is spun as woolen yarns with a fuzzier structure. Wool can also be felted through heat, moisture, and agitation.

Qualities: wool is warm, breathable, and moisture-wicking, while remaining soft next to the skin. It is elastic and resilient, resists wrinkles, and has natural flame resistance. Common classifications include Merino (very fine, roughly 16–24 μm), other fine wools, and medium to coarse wools (up to 40 μm or more), with staple lengths influencing spinning performance.

Uses range from knitwear, suits, and blankets to carpets and insulation. Environmental considerations include its renewable, biodegradable nature, balanced by the impacts of sheep farming. Industry standards such as the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) address animal welfare and land stewardship.

Care typically involves gentle washing or dry cleaning and air drying; wool fibers can shrink if exposed to high heat or agitation.