Not all sheep's wool is created equal. The range extends from the finest Merino wool with a micron count of under 18 (this refers to the fineness of the individual hair – the lower the number, the finer the wool) to smooth, shimmering varieties such as those of the Bluefaced Leicester sheep, or soft, curly wool like that of the Masham sheep, all the way to the rustic, crimped wool of Shetland sheep. Each type of wool has its own advantages and unique characteristics. Furthermore, it also matters whether the raw wool is combed (worsted spun) or carded (woolen spun) before spinning. Carded wool remains curlier; the individual fibers lie crisscrossed in the yarn, resulting in more air pockets. This makes it very light and economical. It's also ideal for multi-colored knitting projects. Combed yarns are more compressed, with the fibers lying parallel, which reflects light better, giving the wool a subtle sheen. Why does wool felt so easily? What makes it machine washable? Why is there hardly any superwash treated wool in our range? Why is organic wool generally not machine washable? You can find the answers to these questions under Service, Tips & Information on the Material Science of Virgin Wool.
