What is Wool Fabric? Properties, Types & Uses Explained

Wool Fabric All you need to be aware of about this fiber that is natural
For thousands of years, wool has been an integral part of our human existence. Wool Fabric is among the world’s most resilient, flexible, and soft fabrics. Wool remains a sought-after fiber, despite the increasing usage of synthetic fibers. This is because of its natural characteristics.
What is it that makes wool fabric unique? What are the different types of wool fabric? And why do you pick them over other types? This guide will cover the entire wool fabric and its origins, characteristics, types and uses and care techniques – so you will understand why it’s called “nature’s performance fiber”.
Origins of Wool Fabric
The history of wool goes to the time of ancient civilisations. Sheep were first domesticated during the Middle East around 10,000-years ago, and their wool was regarded as a great material for clothing.
Wool, in contrast to plant fibers like cotton or flax, provided the ability to provide insulation from the colder climates. This made it a valuable material for Europe as well as Asia. As breeders of sheep increased their fleeces’ quality as time passed they were able to create softer and finer materials, like Merino or Cashmere.
Today, nations like Australia as well as New Zealand, China and the UK export millions of tonnes of wool each year.
Explore our latest collection of wool fabric for suits
What exactly is wool fabric?
Wool is an fabric that is made from animal fibres. The majority of the time wool comes from sheep. Wool is also made by alpacas, goats and camels.
This includes:
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Shearing -Remove the animal’s fleece.
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Scrubbing washing fleeces to get rid of the dirt, grease and the lanolin.
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Carding/Combing– Aligning fibres to allow spinning
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Spinning – Converting fibers into yarn.
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Knitting/Weaving– Fabric that is finished from yarn.
The natural scales, crimps and hollow structure of wool are maintained throughout the process. This provides it with strength, insulation, and elasticity.
Wool fabrics of various types
Wool isn’t just one fabric. The characteristics of wool can differ based on the animal used and the method of processing.
Merino Wool
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Soft, fine and extremely air-tight.
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Primarily, it is sourced from New Zealand and Australia.
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Popular for base layer T-shirts, base layers, and other clothing for performance.
Cashmere
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Cashmere comes from the undercoats of goats.
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Soft, light and light.
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It is used in jackets, sweaters and scarves.
Alpaca Wool
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Alpacas are indigenous to South America.
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Soft, warm, and hypoallergenic.
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Usually found in blankets, ponchos, and outerwear.
Mohair
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From Angora goats.
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Shiny, strong and lustrous.
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Use them for scarves, tailor-made suits and upholstery.
Lambswool
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This image was taken during the first shearing experience of an infant sheep (under seven months old).).
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Soft, but not overly irritating.
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Perfect for luxurious baby knitwear and clothes.
Worsted vs Woolen Fabrics
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Worsted wool: Long, smooth fibers, sharp drape (suits, trousers).
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Woolen fleece Short fibers that provide soft warm (sweaters and coats).
Wool Fabric: The Key Characteristics
Why do the designers, brands for outdoor use, and tailors still relying on wool? The best attributes of wool include:
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Temperature Regulation
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The traps of air help keep you warm in winter.
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In the summer, take a deep breath to avoid overheating.
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Moisture Control
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It absorbs sweat, but doesn’t make you feel wet.
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The skin absorbs moisture.
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Durability
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Elastic fibers resist wrinkles, wrinkles, and wrinkling.
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If properly cared for, it can last for a long time.
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Fire Resistance
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Natural fire retardant. It is not a problem to ignite.
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In uniforms and protective clothing.
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Eco-Friendliness
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Renewable (sheep grow their fleeces each year).
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In soil, biodegradable in several years.
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It is easier to clean than synthetics or cotton.
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Applications for Wool Fabric
When you begin to look around at the wool, it’s everywhere.
Fashion & Clothing
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Formal wear: Suits, trousers, skirts, blazers.
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Casual wear: Sweaters, knitwear, scarves, socks.
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High-end clothing: Cashmere, Merino and exquisite overcoats.
Home textiles
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Throws, blankets, and rug
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Carpets and rug
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Upholstery for chairs and sofas
Outdoor & Technical Gear
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Base layers of thermal insulation to use for hiking.
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Uniforms for firefighters as well as military personnel.
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Industrial applications, soundproofing, and insulation.
The benefits of wool fabric
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Get great thermal and comfort throughout the year.
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elastic and wrinkle-resistant.
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Odor resistent because of its natural structure and the lanolin.
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Similar to synthetics or cotton This fabric is more durable than synthetics or cotton.
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Sustainable, renewable, biodegradable.
Advantages of Wool Fabric
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Fabrics that are more expensive than the ones found in mass-market fabrics
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Dry-cleaning or hand washing only.
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If it is not properly stored the product is vulnerable to moths.
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Certain people may be irritable, particularly when wearing wool that is coarse.
[VS] Wool and other Fabrics
Wool Vs. Cotton
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Wool: warmer, odor-resistant, wrinkle-free.
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Cotton is cooler, less difficult to maintain However, it wrinkles easily.
Wool is different from. Polyester
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Wool: natural, sustainable, breathable.
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Polyester is less breathable, more expensive, and machine washable.
Wool is the best in terms of sustainability and comfort However, synthetics are the winners in terms of ease of use.
How to Care for Wool Fabric
Take care of Wool to extend its life by a few years
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Cleaning: Use mild detergent and cold water, or dry cleaning.
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Avoid the sun and direct heat while drying the fabric: Lay out the fabric flat.
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Storage: Store folded into air-tight bags. Include lavender or cedarwood to deter moths.
Wool is naturally impervious to odors, so do not wash it often!
Questions and Answers on Wool Fabric
Q1 – Is Merino wool appropriate for the summer months?
Merino is breathable, lightweight and regulates temperature.
Q2 Does wool have a renewable source?
Wool is natural, biodegradable and renewable.
Q3: Why do wools shrink during the washing process?
The fibers are able to hold together when they are heated and agitated (felting).
Q4 – What’s the difference between wool and cashmere?
The cost of cashmere.
The article’s conclusion is:
Wool is a prime example of a fabric that is both modern and ancient and also elegant and functional. Wool is unique in its flexibility. It is able to adapt to changing conditions and wick moisture away, withstand flames, and last for decades.
Wool fabric is a natural fibre which has been utilized for ages. From Merino T-shirts to lavish cashmere coats.