1. Engineered Synthetics Anyone?

Walking into any clothing store these days, and you will be faced with a staggering array of multi-hued, synthetic fabrics. The labels all promise that their fabric is superior in every way for keeping you comfortable, warm or cool. Their promises tell the wearer that they are wearing the most lightweight and flexible fabric that is available on the market. These claims are all well and good, but you cannot recycle synthetic fabrics. When they are destroyed, they often emit noxious fumes that are full of harmful chemicals that pollute the environment, not to mention what your skin may be absorbing by wearing them.

2. Nature’s High Tech Wonder Fabric

Quietly waiting in the wings, confident of its attributes, stands merino wool. Merino wool is made from a natural resource that in “green speak” is sustainable. Modern times have relegated merino wool to the back burner, but consumers are seeing the light about this versatile fabric that can be used in a variety of ways. Nothing gets more natural than wool from a sheep.

3. Super Absorbent and Oh So Soft

Merino wool is soft to the touch and can be found in several different grades. No matter what the grade, you are sure to love the feel of merino wool next to your skin. It is one of nature’s most absorbent products and when woven into clothing, can keep the wearer cooler when sweating, and warmer when chilled, just like it did for the original owners.

As an added bonus, merino wool is said to absorb at least ten times the amount of moisture vapors than synthetics without the wearer feeling wet. Merino wool helps to control odor build-up which synthetic material can’t do, and it repels liquids such as rain to keep you drier longer.

4. Merino Wool is Kind to the Environment

The production of wool versus synthetic fabrics and materials is quite diverse. While synthetic products are made in a factory and use chemicals to create and produce them, wool is grown on the back of a sheep. Sheep are living creatures and when sheep ranches and farms are well planned, can contribute much to the environment rather than steal from it. People are taking notice of the harm that has been done to the environment, and they are discovering the benefits of merino wool once again.

The Many Uses of Merino Wool

The use of merino wool is not just limited to apparel; it is also used for super-soft pillows, blankets, mattress stuffing, as well as a host of other uses. Those who are knitters prize merino woolen yarn to use in all of their projects whether it be gloves, a hat, or a scarf for a loved one to wrap around their neck on a blustery, winter’s day. Merino wool is making a comeback as the first choice for fabric.

Does it Matter to the Sheep?

Merino wool that is certified organic means that the wool was grown without the use of chemicals or pesticides. Sheep need to be fed and watered, and organic grown merino wool farmers ensure that their sheep have no contact with any harmful chemicals or additives to their diet or to their habitat.

This means the organic merino wool sheep farmer has to prove to the agency in charge that they are managing their holdings with the environment as well as the sheep in mind. They can’t spray for weeds wherever the sheep may graze, and the water supply must be pristine. There are stringent regulations that must be followed in order for merino wool to be certified as organic.

How is the Wool Different?

Another added bonus to using certified organic merino wool is that the yarn has not been treated with any chemicals throughout the entire production process, from the farm to the shops. When the greasy wool must be cleaned or scoured, it must be done in an approved cleaning agent that is biodegradable. It is then taken to a certified organic mill where it is spun and carded. The certified organic merino wool is always kept separate from other wool in order to keep its purity.

Benefits of Knitwear that has been Certified Organic

The first benefit to the wearer of certified organic merino wool is that little or no harm has been done to the environment. The carbon footprint that the production of organic merino wool leaves is small and using more products that have a low impact on the environment should always be a concern of the consumer.

Those who suffer with allergies or skin conditions will appreciate the purity of a certified organic merino wool product. Those who have been uncomfortable wearing other types of fabrics will breathe easier as will their skin when they are wrapped in certified organic merino wool.

The Natural Choice for Your Wardrobe

Certified organic merino wool is not only environmentally friendly; it is heads above other fabrics when it comes to insulation and durability. It is naturally fire resistant and repels water as it absorbs moisture. Organic merino wool is soft, natural and safe for babies’ delicate skin. Blankets are plush and warm and socks are thick and absorbent.

Why Is Organic Merino Wool So Expensive?

Having your merino wool certified as organic is not an easy endeavor. There are many special considerations and rules and regulations that must be met. It is not cheap to produce organic goods as production is typically done on a much smaller scale and livestock health must be a number one priority as is the diet they are fed. There are regulations regarding the food that the sheep can eat as well. Caring for the pastureland that sheep graze on can’t be done with any type of toxic chemicals or pesticides. Bringing the high quality of certified organic merino wool to the consumer can be costly but the end result is well worth it.

It is a very soft wool, traditionally used in high quality garments, and is preferable with people with sensitive skin. For knitters, it is suggested to multistrand the yarn for larger gauges. Preferably, knitters use three strands for sport weight and five strands for worsted weight. Weavers love this yarn for making tartans, because it never itches. It can be mixed with Zephyr wool/silk brands and Genstone silk to add glisten to any project. It is dyed with the finest dyes in the world. Some excess dyes may be present in the yarn so it is best to skein it and rinse under cold water until the water is clear. Dark purples especially have colorfast problems when exposed to sun. It is best to avoid bright sunlight in this color. For washing it is best to hand wash in lukewarm water, no bleach. Once washed the loft of the yarn expands, creating a fuller, feel and look to any project. It can be dry cleaned, and a cool iron can be used under a pressing cloth, but never ironed wet. Lay flat to dry, never tumble dry. For storage, even thought this yarn is moth-proof, it is best to store in a clear, clean plastic container for long term storage.

The yarn is so soft and delicate, it feels like cashmere. It is a luxury yarn with excellent drape and luster. The yarn has a very low occurrence of knotting, offering knitters a great amount of versatility in adding more piles. The creative opportunities with this yarn are unsurpassed. It can be used for knitting, machine knitting, tambour embroidery, beaded knits, weaving, crocheting, lace work and natural dying. Due to its light and soft attributes, it adds warmth without the bulk. It is also a very clean wool, without chaff. It is sold and supplied in 1 pound cones which have approximately 5,040 yards per pound for a 2/18 count. For the yarn count, the first number is the ply or number of strands, and the second number is the fraction of the yarn thickness. The higher the second number, the thinner the strand.
Merino wool can be used for thermal underwear, wool suits, socks, blankets, quilts, and footwear. Because Jagger Spun Merino wool is recognized as the worlds leading natural fibers, it has been showing up on catwalks and A-list celebrities around the world.