A Winter Fiber Commonly Used In Suits and Knit Fabrics.
ALTERNATIVES
Cashmere Mohair Alpaca Qiviut MilkCasein Acrylic
DESCRIPTION
Wool is a natural protein fiber obtained from sheep, and there are over 200 different breeds worldwide. It is naturally crimped and wavy with a lofty and slightly greasy hand feel before treated. Most wools are yellowish white or ivory but some can be black, brown, gray, or random mixes.
History
Sheep are the oldest domestic animal species, dating back to around 10,000 years ago when primitive humans first covered their bodies with wool for protection. Britains wool manufacturing industry is believed to be a leader in Europe around 1900BC, and the death penalty was once effective for the exportation of sheep and raw wool during the 15th to 18th centuries. The first Merino sheep were introduced into Australia in 1797, where the best merinos continue to be bred to this day.
GROWING
Wool fibers are obtained by sheep shearing that usually occurs in spring or early summer. The quality is determined by wool classing.The fleece is then treated with chemicals to remove “wool greases” and pests, and bleaching is often needed for white wool.
POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Treating methods for fly strike in sheep can constitute animal cruelty. And the treatment process of raw wool generally involves large amounts of chemicals and an intensive use of energy.
WASH INSTRUCTIONS
[1]Dry clean and avoid machine and hot water washing[2]Do not use chlorine bleach[3]Dry flat[4]Steam or press on a medium heat setting with damp cloth
CHARACTERISTICS
- Weaker than cotton and flax
- Strength decreases when wet
- Holds garment shapes well
- Retains air and warmth
- High elasticity; considered the most extensible natural fiber
- Absorbs moisture better than cotton
- Fades and weakens under continuous sunlight
- Mildew develops when wool is damp
- Possible irritant to skin
- Tends to shrink when wet
- Scales make it possible to be felted wrinkle resistant
- Biodegradable
- Suitable for mechanical recycling with relatively long fibers.
QUALITY OF WOOL
The quality of wool is determined by its fiber diameter, breed, amount of crimp, color, and staple strength. Fiber diameter is the most important wool characteristic when it comes to quality and price.
SUSTAUNABLE OPTIONS
A sustainable approach includes encouraging the use of recycled wool or vegan wool.
| BREEDS | DIAMETER |
|---|---|
| ULTRAFINE | <26 Microns, 63.5-127mm e.g. Merino |
| FINE CROSSBRED | 27-34 microns, 76.2-152.4mm e.g. Rambouillet, Blue faced leicester, corriedales |
| MEDIUM CROSSBRED | 23-34 microns, 76.2-152.4mm e.g. Columbia, Targhee, Finnsheep, Suffolk |
| COARSE CROSSBREDS | >36 microns, 5-10 inches e.g. Lincoln |
COMMON TYPES OF WOOL
| WOOLEN | WORSTED |
|---|---|
| Spun from wool fibers of: Short fibers of 25.4-76.2mm Medium or coarse | Spun from wool fibers of: Longer than 76.2mm Fine diameter |
| Fabric Appearance. Soft and fuzzy | Fabric Appearance: Crisp and smooth |
| CHARACTERISITICS Insulator due to trapped air Does not hold a crease well Less durable than worsted | CHARACTERISTICS Less insulating Holds creases and shape More durable than woolens |
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