Now that the autumn season is well under way and winter is nearly upon us, lots of keen knitters around the country are thinking about what type of wool to use to make their new, practical men’s jumpers, sister’s scarves, colourful, children’s bobble hats or warm womens aran sweater using wool from a company such as https://www.shamrockgift.com/aran-sweaters/womens-aran-sweaters/. There are plenty of good reasons why wool is ideal to use for a winter garment, the wool’s naturally crimped fibres make tiny air pockets when the fibres stack together, which is why you feel so warm and cosy when you wear wool. Lambswool is named because it comes from the first shearing of the lambs at approximately seven months old. This produces wool that is incredibly soft, smooth, and contains hypoallergenic properties.
Merino Wool is named after the Merino breed of sheep that originated from Spain, though nowadays, they are mainly bred in Australia. The fine fibres of the wool are incredibly soft and most often used for clothing that comes into direct contact with the skin. Shetland wool is named after the Shetland Islands sheep and the shorn fibres are thicker and coarser than most other wool, which makes it ideal for crew neck jumpers.
Angora wool is not from the goat of the same name but the rabbit, these cute creatures produce the finest, warmest and lightest of the natural fibres. The product is so soft and delicate it must be mixed with other fibres to increase its durability.
Shetland wool and how it compares with Aran knits
Shetland wool comes from a breed of sheep native to the Shetland Islands in Scotland. It is finer than many other wools, which makes it comfortable against the skin, and it is warm, breathable and good at wicking away moisture. Despite that warmth it is relatively lightweight, so garments made from it suit several seasons, and the wool is known for being durable.
Knitting has a long history on the islands. The craft was introduced by Dutch fishermen in the 16th century, and the harsh climate created a steady need for warm, protective clothing. Shetland jumpers are still often hand knitted using traditional techniques.
The wool comes in a range of natural colours, from soft earthy tones to richer shades. Shetland knits usually carry intricate patterns, whereas Aran jumpers are known for bold, textured cables running across the whole garment.
What makes merino wool special
Merino wool stands out for being both soft and durable. Its long, fine fibres feel comfortable against the skin, and its natural crimp gives it resilience and flexibility. Its loft traps warmth, and it resists water and odours, making it a good choice for winter garments.
Merino also wicks moisture away from the body. The air held between the fibres helps to regulate body temperature, keeping the wearer warm in the cold and comfortable in warmer weather, and dry even during exercise. That makes it suitable for wear in almost any climate.
It is a sustainable fibre too. Merino sheep are shorn once or twice a year and simply grow a new coat. The result is wool that is very soft to the touch and breathable. The main drawback is cost, as merino is noticeably more expensive than synthetic alternatives, so it is best saved for projects where comfort and performance matter most, or for a special gift.