What are the Differences Between Types of Wool?

October 11, 2019

Skudden Sheep Native to Estonia, Germany, Latvia & Lithuania

New Wool

New Wool is wool that has been woven for the first time. As wool is recyclable and old items can be shredded and recycled into new garments and blankets, the term 'new' is used to refer to an item where the wool has not been previously used and the fibres have not sustained any wear.

New wool fibres are strong, fine and durable and items made from new wool are subsequently warm, insulating and long-lasting. 'Pure' New Wool is wool that has not been blended with another fibre and is used to describe an item that is made from 100% New Wool.

Most of our New Wool blankets are thick and chunky making them the perfect 'family' blanket; warm, washable (on a cold wool setting), durable and perfect for everday use.

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Freshly Sheared Wool

Lambswool

Lambswool is wool that is obtained from the first shearing of a sheep, after its coat has come in, at around the age of seven months. The fibres of lambswool are smoother, stronger and hold more elasticity than other wool. Softer and lighter than New Wool, it also has good insulation properties and is a good choice for anyone with a sensitive skin.

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Dyed Merino Wool

Merino Wool

Merino wool comes from the Merino breed of sheep bred solely for its wool, primarily in New Zealand and Australia. Their fine and curly coat results in the softest wool of any breed of sheep.

Shop for Merino Lambswool Blankets & Throws

Alpacas_grazing_in_Chile Alpacas Grazing on the Shore of Lake Chungara in Northern Chile

Alpaca Wool

Alpaca wool is spun from a fibre obtained from the fluffy Huacaya alpaca and the dreadlocked Suri alpaca native to South America. Wool derived from alpacas can be either heavy or light depending on how it is spun. Compared to sheep wool, alpaca wool is considerably softer, and even more durable.

The fibres that are used to make this type of wool are equipped with tiny air pockets, and these minuscule spaces make it highly breathable and insulative. Consequently, alpaca wool is considered to be one of the warmest types of animal fibre and since wool made from alpaca fibres does not contain any lanolin it is also hypoallergenic.

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A Flock of Angora Goats

Mohair

Mohair is a silk-like yarn taken from the coat of the Angora goat. Known for its durability, lustre and sheen, these characteristics have led to it being awarded the nickname of the Diamond Fibre. With its excellent insulating properties and crease resistance, it is considered to be a luxury fibre like Cashmere, Angora and Silk.

Mohair does not felt as wool does, however it does naturally shed fibres and it is therefore possibly more suited as a throw for gentle use rather than a blanket for hard, everyday use.