We are very excited to announce a new series of blog posts, Winter Wolle, that we are hosting here at Clever Charlotte!
We have a variety of wool-inspired projects lined up to show you over the next few weeks. In doing so, we hope to demonstrate just why we love wool in all forms. While the function & beauty of wool isn’t limited to just wintertime, it is precisely in these cold, dark months of winter in Northeast Ohio that I seek out wool for its visual and physical warmth. What better time to feature this wonderfull, all-natural product?
So, why wool?
An obvious answer is warmth. But did you know that wool is naturally water repellant and moisture wicking? It is also extremely durable, more than making up for any extra up-front costs of a wool product over its lifetime.
It is sustainable, renewable and otherwise relatively eco-friendly. It can be produced without harmful pesticides. Wool is also low-maintenance, requiring only occasional laundering. Wool can be composted!
For apparel and crafting, wool is ideal because it naturally resists wrinkles and maintains its shape well. It is also extremely versatile. It is perfect for the coldest months of the year, and yet can comfortably span 3 seasons of style for the Mrs.–
the Miss–
and the home–
In addition to being a perfect sewing medium, it can be spun and knitted,
Left (Anthropologie archives), Right
felted,
and needled (Ok, really just another form of felting)–
Wool’s industrial applications are also worth considering. Did you know that wool can insulate your house?
…
With wool’s unlimited potential, we hope Winter Wolle will inspire you to plan a project or two for yourself or home.
Happy Sewing!
~Erin
PS Wanna see more?
Winter Wolle
I LOVE working with wool(and not just because I am a merino sheep breeder). Its has so many useful properties,as mentioned above it is so forgiving to sew with.
When pressing with a steam iron it shapes beautifully.
In the last few decades there have been some marvellous wool and wool blend fabrics produced,many very easy care.
Most modern washing machines have a wool cycle and off course woollen garments rarely need laundering after each wear. An old baby brush is perfect for brushing of mud or soil and a damp flannel(face washer)will remove most smuts. Just let it air dry before putting away.
Sewing with wool and wool blends is just about my favourite sewing project.
PS Did you know you can predict heavy rain from watching sheep?
If it is a light shower they make no attempt to get out of it as they know their natural rain coats will keep them dry.
Nicole, You make me wish I had a sheep in my back yard right now! Are your merinos produced into finished wool fabric and sold stateside by any chance??
We produce and sell the raw product Carla.
We work hard at the genetics to produce a fleece with a low micron(finer texture)and high comfort factor(not itchy).
Australia exports wool all over the world,so who knows?
A great article Charlotte!