Wool fibres consist of keratin, (which is the protein that comprises feathers, nails and hair) and lanolin (wool grease). The lanolin is removed during cleaning.

Woollen fibres have thousands of tiny, overlapping scales, which are aligned in the same direction. Air is trapped within the fibres giving wool it's insulating properties.

Wool is the most hydrophilic of all natural fibres. The hollow core of the wool fibre is a sponge-like pulp which can absorb up to a third of its weight of water without feeling wet to touch, yet tends to repel water.

Wool is more flame resistant than other natural fibres, and is elastic, making it wrinkle-resistant when dry.

Lambs wool has a fine, soft fleece and is sheered at six months. Yearling wool is sheered at ten to twelve months.

Merino sheep originate from Spain and are used in fine woollen and worsted fabrics. The fibres are under 25 microns in diameter, and are generally 40 to 120 mm long.

'Medium' wools are normally from cross breeds of UK or New Zealand origin. With 25 to 30 micron fibre diameter the wool is used in heavier apparel. The fibres are 120 to 150 mm long.

Coarse wool, from Cheviot sheep has long fibres of over 150mm. The wool is suited to carpets, industrial felts and other furnishing fabrics.

Holland & Sherry Textile Guide