Description
Contents: 100% Icelandic Wool
Micron: 34 – 36mic
Staple Length: 90 – 100 mm
Weight: 100g
Crafting: Dyeing, Wet Felting, Needle Felting, Spinning, Weaving, Jumbo Knitting, Jumbo Crochet
Care: Hand Wash Only
Icelandic Sheep and Their Wool
Icelandic sheep are an ancient, dual-coated breed descended from the short-tailed Nordic sheep brought to Iceland by the Vikings over 1,100 years ago. Known for their hardiness, adaptability, and unique fleece, Icelandic sheep are one of the purest sheep breeds in the world, having remained largely unchanged due to Iceland’s strict livestock import laws. While they are primarily found in Iceland, small flocks exist in Ireland, the UK, and other parts of Europe, often kept by artisan fibre producers and rare-breed enthusiasts.
Characteristics of Icelandic Sheep
Appearance
– Small to medium-sized, with a wide variety of natural colours (white, black, grey, moorit brown, spotted, etc.).
– Short, sturdy legs and a compact body, adapted to harsh northern climates.
Hardiness
– Extremely resilient; can survive in rugged terrain and cold temperatures with little human intervention.
Icelandic Wool: Unique Double-Coated Structure
Icelandic wool is dual-coated, meaning it consists of two distinct fibre types, which can be used separately or blended:
1. Tog (Outer Coat)
– Long (4–7 inches / 10–18 cm), coarse, and water-resistant.
– Provides protection against rain and wind, making it ideal for durable textiles.
– Similar to other longwool breeds like Teeswater or Wensleydale, but coarser.
– Used for warp yarns, weaving, and strong outerwear.
2. Þel (Thel, Inner Coat)
– Soft, fine, and warm, with a staple length of 2–4 inches (5–10 cm).
– Provides excellent insulation and is comparable to fine Merino or cashmere.
– Used for luxury knitting yarns, felting, and next-to-skin garments.
Micron Count
– Tog: 27–34 microns (coarse, like Cheviot or Suffolk).
– Þel: 19–22 microns (soft, like fine Shetland or Corriedale).
Texture:
– Strong, warm, and lightweight, making it highly versatile.
– Less elastic than some fine wools but has a unique loftiness that traps heat exceptionally well.
Uses of Icelandic Wool
– Lopi Yarn:
– The most famous use of Icelandic wool is Lopi yarn, a lightly spun wool that retains air for maximum warmth with minimal weight.
– Used for traditional Icelandic sweaters (Lopapeysa), hats, mittens, and blankets.
– Felting:
– Icelandic wool felts quickly and easily, making it excellent for felted garments, slippers, and decorative items.
– Weaving:
– The long Tog fibers make Icelandic wool perfect for warp yarns, tapestries, and woven rugs.
– Blending:
– Some artisans blend Icelandic wool with softer fibres like Alpaca or Merino for added softness while maintaining durability.
Modern Uses and Demand
– Icelandic wool is increasingly popular among sustainable fashion designers and eco-conscious knitters, thanks to its natural insulation and durability.
– The versatility of its dual-coated fleece makes it a favourite among hand-spinners, felters, and weavers.
– Its historical and cultural significance adds to its appeal for those interested in traditional textile crafts.
