Wool production is a traditional process that begins on farms and ends with a natural fibre used in clothing and carpets. In the UK, sheep farming has played a key role in wool production for centuries, particularly in rural areas such as Wales, Yorkshire and the Scottish Borders.
The process starts with shearing
This usually takes place once a year in late spring or early summer. Skilled shearers carefully remove the fleece from the sheep in one piece, ensuring the animal is not harmed. Once shorn, the fleece is graded according to its quality, length and fineness.
Next comes scouring
This is where the raw wool is washed to remove dirt and grease. The lanolin extracted during this stage is often refined and used in cosmetics and skincare products. After cleaning, the wool is dried and prepared for processing.
The clean fibres are then carded
This is a process that aligns the wool strands and removes any remaining impurities. For finer yarns, the wool may be combed to produce a smoother finish. Once prepared, the fibres are spun into yarn by twisting them together, creating strength and elasticity. If you’re keen on creating pieces using wool and yarn, you can find crochet kits at specialists like www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/crochet-kits.
The yarn is woven or knitted into fabric
The finished material may be dyed or treated to improve durability and softness. Wool’s natural warmth, breathability and biodegradability make it a popular and sustainable choice in the textile industry.