Falling in Love with Wool: Why This Fiber Has Our Heart

Here at The Woolly Thistle, we believe wool isn’t just a material—it’s a story waiting to be shared, a connection to the land, the animals, and the people who lovingly produce it. So why should you fall in love with wool and choose it for your next project? Let’s take a closer look at why wool is wonderful for the environment, your wardrobe, and your craft—and why we’ve made it our mission to bring you the very best.

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1. Wool and the Environment: Nature’s Super Fiber

Wool is one of the most sustainable fibers on the planet. Here’s why:

• Biodegradable: Unlike synthetic fibers that linger in landfills for hundreds of years, wool naturally decomposes within months under the right conditions, returning nutrients to the soil.
• Renewable: Wool grows back year after year, thanks to the hard work of happy sheep. With proper care, flocks provide sustainable fibers for generations.
• Low Impact: Wool production avoids the chemical-heavy processes used to create synthetic materials. When you choose wool, you’re choosing a product that respects the environment from start to finish.

*The photo accompanying this section features the flock at Armscote Manor, home to rare Portland Sheep and Black Welsh Mountain Sheep.

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2. Misconceptions About Wool: Soft, Not Scratchy

If you’re new to knitting, you might think wool is scratchy or difficult to care for. Let’s set the record straight:

• Soft Wool for Every Skin: Today’s wools, like many of those we curate at The Woolly Thistle, are soft and comfortable. Fine wools like Shetland and Rambouillet offer luxurious options for sensitive skin.
• Easy Care: Wool naturally resists stains and odors. A simple soak and lay-flat-to-dry routine is all you need to keep your knits looking fresh. Plus, wool can go weeks between washes, saving time and water!
• Temperature Regulation: Wool keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. It wicks away moisture, so you stay dry and comfortable, no matter the season.

Curious about just how soft and versatile wool can be? Try our Wool Explorations Box! This curated collection includes samples of fine and rare wools that showcase wool’s incredible softness, natural durability, and temperature-regulating properties. It’s the perfect way to experience a variety of fibers and find your favorites—all while learning the stories behind each skein.

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3. From Crofts to Craft: Supporting Communities Near and Far

When you shop at The Woolly Thistle, you’re not just buying yarn—you’re connecting to families, farms, and small businesses around the world. From the windswept Scottish crofts to Norwegian mills and even American producers, every skein has a story to tell.

We specialize in sourcing yarns made at the source, ensuring you’re directly connected to the skilled hands that create them. Many of our offerings come from rare and heritage sheep breeds, safeguarding traditions, flocks, and livelihoods for generations to come. For example, the wool of Shetland sheep (*shown here in photo)—used in brands like Jamieson & Smith—showcases the rich heritage of the Shetland Islands while supporting local crofters and preserving traditional practices.

When you knit with wool, you honor these stories, support sustainable practices, and keep communities thriving.

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4. Non-Superwash Wool: A Return to the Natural Way

At The Woolly Thistle, we embrace the natural beauty of non-superwash wool. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

• Fewer Chemicals: Unlike superwash wool, which undergoes chemical treatments to make it machine washable, non-superwash wool retains its natural integrity.
• Eco-Friendly: Non-superwash wool avoids the harsh processes that impact the environment, making it a more sustainable choice.
• Durable and Resilient: With its natural elasticity, non-superwash wool holds its shape beautifully, creating heirloom-quality projects that last.
• Ideal for Blocking: Non-superwash wool responds wonderfully to blocking, helping your stitches bloom and settle into a polished, professional finish. Just look at how beautifully it holds the lace in this design, allowing each motif to stand out with clarity and structure.

Choosing non-superwash wool means celebrating wool in its truest, most natural form. 

*Photo: Corinne modeling her hand-knit Halligarth Shawl in Rambler colorway Trillium, designed by Gudrun Johnston.

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5. Why Wool Lasts: A Legacy in Every Stitch

Wool stands the test of time. Its natural elasticity means fewer pills, better shape retention, and garments that can be passed down for generations. Whether it’s a cherished sweater or a beloved Blanket, wool creates projects that become part of your story.

At The Woolly Thistle, we take pride in curating the finest natural fibers from around the world. Each skein we offer is rooted in purpose, connecting you to the land, the people, and the flocks that make it possible.

 

For Further Learning:

Want to keep your wool garments looking their best? Check out Caitlin’s previous blog post on how to care for wool—it’s easier than you think!

Expand your woolly knowledge with these interviews:

• Wooldreamers: A Chat with the Makers – Learn about the story and mission behind this special Spanish mill.
• Armscote Manor: A Look into a Historic Wool Legacy – Discover the unique history of Armscote Manor and its connection to wool production.

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Ready to Explore the Magic of Wool Through Colorwork?

Wool’s natural qualities make it a dream fiber for colorwork knitting. Its elasticity provides even tension, while the slightly grippy texture of non-superwash wool ensures that stitches stay in place, creating crisp, defined patterns. When it comes to blocking, wool works beautifully to even out your colorwork for a polished, professional finish.

That’s why we’re so excited to invite you to our Colorwork Accessories Knit-Along (KAL)—a celebration of wool, creativity, and community! This KAL is all about accessories, so whether you’re crafting a beautiful hat, warm mittens, or a striking cowl, you’ll discover the joy of wool while connecting with fellow knitters.

What You’ll Love About the KAL:

• Perfect Yarn Pairings: Choose from our curated selection of non-superwash wool, like Jamieson & Smith, Rauma, or Tukuwool, ensuring your colorwork accessories are as durable as they are beautiful.
• Kits, Yarn Sets, and Patterns: Explore our wide variety of kits, yarn sets, and patterns tailored for colorwork to make your project selection easy and inspiring.
• Community & Support: Share your progress, ask questions, and get inspired alongside other passionate knitters.
• Timeless Designs: Accessory projects are perfect for exploring colorwork techniques while creating something practical and stunning.

Plus, when you sign up, you’ll receive a free Ballachulish Beanie pattern to get started and enjoy a discount on our Intro to Colorwork Course, perfect for beginners or anyone looking to brush up on techniques.

Join the Colorwork Accessories KAL Today and experience the magic of wool, color, and community!