Why Wool: A Guide to the Eco-Properties of this Natural Fiber

Humans have been using wool to make clothes since the Stone Ages so it’s no wonder that so many people use Wool in various forms. From hardwearing products like upholstery, rugs and sofas to soft products like sweaters, pillows, blankets, wool is a favorite go to fiber for all types of fabrication. One awesome company in New Zealand has figured out how to mix Resin with Wool to make surfboards, eliminating the need for fiberglass. 

1. Longevity

2. Renewability

3. Durable & Hardwaring

4. Beautiful

It's uses are nearly limitless. 

At JAK W, we love wool for so many reasons . . . it's sustainable, renewable, durable, and generally quite beautiful. So we thought it was worth taking a moment to speak a bit about this amazing natural fiber.

Wool comes from the undercoat of sheep . . . 

Pretty obvious. But did you know that when shorn, sheep can grow their coats back within 6 weeks? As humans, we have a responsibility to keep sheep shorn regularly to prevent matting and disease. So as long as sheep roam the earth, and we do the humane thing, wool will be available abundantly. 

Wool comes in different forms . . . 

There are many different types of wool on the market, and this all has to do with the type of sheep the wool came from. In design, there are a few that are most commonly used. 

Merino Wool comes from Merino Sheep, a breed which typically live in hotter climates like Spain, Chile and Argentina. Consequently, the merino fiber is the thinnest wool produced of any sheep and as a result, is the most delicate and lightweight of any wool. Highly coveted for its softness, Merino Wool is commonly used to produce lightweight luxury items like sweaters, scarves, and blankets.

In contrast, Long Wool Sheep love cool, wet climates and are found in places like New Zealand, England, Scotland, and the Falkland Islands. The fleece from the Long Wool Sheep is thick and coarse . . . more communally used for hardwearing goods like upholstery, rugs and furniture.

Not all Wool is created equal . . . 

Are you surprised? Like anything else, there are different qualities and different practices that are important to know of. The process of shearing the wool, though necessary, can also be harmful to the animals if done without the proper care. Depending on the local of the wool production, 

What makes Wool so awesomely sustainable?

And why, you ask, use Wool so abundantly? The reasons are endless. Wool is renewable, recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable. It is also naturally moisture repellant, stain resistant, mildew resistant, mold resistant, odor resistant and flame resistant. 50% of fleece’s weight is organic carbon stored within the fiber so it actually reduces Co2s. Wool improves the indoor air quality of spaces by absorbing pollutants, and of all the natural fibers, it absorbs the most.

How Do I incorporate wool in to my day to day. 

From flooring to blankets, sweaters to slippers, you might be surprised to find out how abundantly wool is used in sustainable manufacturing. Wool can be used abundantly to provide warmth, protection and pure bliss. Take it from these guys.  

If you love natural living and you are curious to learn more, check out some of our other our blog posts here. If you aren't a subscriber, be sure to sign up here so you never miss out.