Woolme News - Page 2 of 12 - Finest wool throws, alpaca throws, cashmere thows and scarves

What’s the Difference Between Types of Wool?

Don’t know your merino from your mohair? Don’t worry, in this handy guide we’ll explain the differences between the most often-used types of wool. So you can make the right choice, whether you’re looking for a beautiful cosy blanket or a sumptuous sweater.

Mohair

Harvested from the angora goat, mohair is silky, soft and highly insulating. Often used for baby clothes, suits and blankets, mohair is resilient and dirt-resistant. Garments made from mohair have a lovely drape and the fibres take dyes particularly effectively, as well as having gorgeous natural colours.

Merino

Merino sheep are generally found in Australia and New Zealand. The fibres of this wool have small scales, making it a lightweight, fine wool that is perfect for base layers and blankets thanks to its great temperature-regulating properties.

Cashmere

One of the most luxurious types of wool, cashmere comes from the supersoft under layer of wool from the Kashmir goat in India, Tibet, China and Mongolia. Thanks to its softness and warmth cashmere is beloved for its silky feel in scarves, clothing and cashmere throws. Due to its rarity it tends to be more expensive and is less durable than other types of wool.

Lambswool

Taken from the first shearing of a lamb when they are six or seven months old, lambswool is very smooth and soft. It’s also resilient, hypoallergenic and perfect for garments that are worn next to the skin, or for bedding. It can only be harvested once, which makes it more expensive that ordinary sheep wool.

Alpaca

Once originally found in South America, fields of these fluffy, camel-like creatures are now commonplace around the world. Alpaca wool is silky and supersoft, with great insulating properties. It’s often used in blankets, knits and sportswear, and has a lovely range of natural colours. As well as being comfortable to the touch, alpaca wool is strong and pill-resistant.

Angora

Harvested from the angora rabbit, this wool is not to be confused with mohair, that comes from the angora goat. Due to its hollow fibres, angora is very lightweight and fine, and is often blended with other types of wool to make it less fragile. It has great temperature-regulating properties, is warm and cosy, and is resistant to odours.

Wool

If a garment’s label lists it as composed of ‘wool’ it refers to ordinary sheep wool. The scales on this wool are larger, which can make it feel itchy, but it is cheaper and very warm, making it great for larger pieces like wool throws.

To read more about the benefits of wool go here and here.

Why Wool is Wonderful in the Bedroom

February 15, 2019 Tags: bedroom decoration, improved sleep, interior design, sustainable fibre, thermal properties of wool, types of wool, wool blankets, wool throw No Comments

Like your favourite pair of jeans or simple white t-shirt, some things can be counted on to work, time and time again. A wool throw or blanket is one of these trusty companions, whether used as an extra layer of warmth on your bed or tucked over the sofa for cosy evenings in front of the TV.

There’s really nothing better, and simpler, to add to your home. And you can even use a wool throw as the starting point for your interior decoration, particularly in the bedroom. Start with finding the best quality, most luxurious blanket you can get, then pick out colours from the pattern or, if it’s in a block colour, use this as the basis for your palette. Draped over your bed in winter it will pull together the whole space, and in warmer months you can use it instead of the duvet or fold it over just the bottom section of the bed.

A wool throw is a timeless addition to your home, and can create a cosy, homely feel in the bedroom. Conjuring up memories of childhood picnics, travel adventures, camping trips and family movie nights, there is something wonderfully nostalgic about a woolly blanket. And it’s perfect for an intimate, quiet space such as a bedroom.

Whilst the initial outlay may be more than the price of a synthetic throw, you will get many years more use from a quality wool throw, as well as all the inherent natural advantages of this magical fibre.

Not only is wool a sustainable choice for bedding, it can actually help you sleep better. This is due to wool’s temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties, which keep you comfortable and sleeping more deeply. Research has also shown that not only do people sleep more deeply with wool bedding, they also fall asleep more quickly. And all members of the family can benefit too: studies have revealed that babies also sleep more soundly when lying on top of a wool underlay or topper.

Bedrooms can attract high levels of condensation, particularly in winter, as we release lots of water as we breathe throughout the night. A wool blanket is mildew and mold resistant, so will keep your bedroom looking and smelling fresh. Wool is also antimicrobial, naturally fire-retardant and very easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for bedding.

A stunning wool throw will not only enhance the look of your bedroom, it will help you feel better too, improving your quality of sleep and making you feel safe and snug.

And Breathe! Why Wool is the Natural Choice

January 17, 2019 Tags: 100% wool, natural wool, temperature regulation, thermal properties of wool, wool base layers, wool blanket, wool insulation, wool throw No Comments

Do you ever find that sometimes the simplest solution is right there, under your nose? While scientists and researchers strive to develop ever-more innovative new fabrics and materials for fashion and interiors, we think the best and most natural choice is one that we’ve used and enjoyed for thousands of years: wool.

Not only is wool a more sustainable, biodegradable fabric than synthetics, it also works in harmony with your body. So you can stay comfortable, warm and cosy without overheating. The main reason that we don’t get unpleasantly hot (unlike when wearing some manmade fibres) with wool is that it allows your skin to breathe. In fact, it’s almost as if wool itself is breathing. Here’s how it works:

Wool’s natural absorbency

Wool has a very high absorbency, which means it wicks away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. This moisture is slowly released back into the air, meaning you avoid the chills and shivers that can occur after exercise when you start to cool off. As the body’s humidity reduces, the process of absorbing moisture creates warmth within the wool – it has been claimed that 1kg of dry wool can generate the same amount of heat as an electric blanket heated for eight hours!

By releasing warm moisture into the air, rather than allowing it to stick to the skin, wool helps regulate your body temperature. As moisture is released and heat is generated, the ensuing evaporation cools the body.

Insulating properties

Because the fibres in wool are crimped, they trap air in tiny pockets. This creates an insulating layer, which is why wool is not only great for clothing and blankets, but also makes excellent wall insulation in the home. This is why wool is often found in jackets or used to create fine undergarments for people in extreme or changeable temperatures, like mountain climbing.

Odour resistance

Another amazing quality of woollen fabrics, according to azithromycin.net is the anti-microbial function. Thanks to wool’s ability to release moisture back into the air more quickly and effectively than many synthetics, sweat doesn’t stick around long enough for bacteria to form. Which means no unpleasant odours, just a fresh feeling. Whether you’re skiing at altitude or riding the rush hour commute, choosing wool means you’ll stay just the right temperature.

So, whether you’re looking for a lightweight base layer, a wool scarf for winter, or want to find a cosy wool throw to hunker down on chilly evenings, wool is the natural choice. From finest luxurious cashmere to sumptuously soft merino wool, there’s a good reason why humans have loved and used wool throughout history. It’s not only temperature-regulating, it’s also easy to care for. Simply follow the care instructions on each garment, dry flat and out of sunlight, and gently remove any pilling. If looked after properly your woollen blankets and clothing will last for years, keeping you cosy and comfortable whatever the weather – and life – may throw at you.

How to Deal With Pilling and Bobbling on Wool

December 11, 2018 Tags: caring for wool, how to prevent pilling, Wool care No Comments

If your wool clothes or home textiles have annoying bobbling or are looking older than they should, we’ve got some tips on how to prevent and get rid of pilling. Caused by broken fibres bunching together to form tiny balls, pills and bobbles often occur in areas of high friction, like the cuffs and armpits of sweaters. Pilling is more common in mixed fibre textiles, especially those that include polyester. Synthetic fibres are more prone to bobbling, so choose natural fabrics like linen or wool whenever possible.

Once a garment has bobbles the little balls will just keep on getting bigger, as other broken fibres from different items are attracted to them. This can result in pills that are different colours than the original garment, as bits of fluff and fuzz from other things become attached to the existing bobbles.

Thankfully, pilling is pretty easy to deal with. Firstly, it’s important to try to avoid it in the first place. Here’s how to avoid pilling on wool garments:

Wash the item inside out on a gentle/ wool cycle, or hand wash if possible. The less friction it meets the less it will bobble.
Use a specialist detergent for wool or delicates.
Don’t overload your washing machine as this can damage the fibres, and wash delicates with other similar items rather than harder-wearing garments like denim, or things with zips.
Use a fabric conditioner. This will coat the wool fibres and reduce static and friction.
Air dry, don’t tumble dry. Heat and friction will damage the fibres and cause pilling.
Never use bleach on wool items as this weakens the fibres and can make them more likely to break and pill.

If your beloved wool sweater or woollen blanket does have some bobbling and needs perking up, here are some tips on getting rid of pilling:

Use a fabric comb or electric fabric shaver to carefully remove the bobbles.
Using a sharp standard razor, hold the garment taut and gently shave off the pills. Collect the cut-offs with a lint roller or adhesive tape.
For mild pilling adhesive tape, a head lice comb or a velcro hair roller are effective (and cheap) ways to remove pills.
If you’re travelling and need a quick bobble fix, use the rough part of a velcro fastening to remove bobbles from an item.

For more tips on how to care for wool clothes and throws, and on how to treat stains go here and here.

Your Ultimate Wool Throw Gift Guide

November 13, 2018 Tags: alpaca throws, christmas gifts, merino blankets, mohair throw, wool blanket, Wool for Christmas, wool guide, Wool Throw Guide, wool throws No Comments

If you’re trying to get ahead of the game and make a start with your Christmas gift buying, here’s our ultimate gift guide. We can help you choose the perfect wool throw for your family members or friends, and give them a gift they can enjoy for years to come. In fact, we can’t think of many better things to give at Christmas than a soft, snuggly blanket crafted from the finest materials that will keep your loved ones feeling cozy and pampered. A new wool throw will become part of their own Christmas and wintertime traditions, from curling up under it to watch a holiday movie, to tucking in an excited child who has just hung up their stocking for Santa.

So, here’s what we’re putting on our present-buying list this year:

For Mum

Busy mothers can find they’ve barely stopped all day. From the pressures of work to the demands of small children, this time of year can be even more exhausting than normal. Even mums of grown-up kids can still find it hard to properly unwind. Give a mother in your life the gift of a peaceful, precious, moment of relaxation with this supersoft throw. Encourage them to take time out for themselves with a book or a podcast, tucked up and cared for, instead of doing all the caring.

For a mother who loves being in Nature a wool throw is a great present. They can lie back on it and watch the clouds or spread out a picnic feast for friends in the park. It will keep them warm on chilly evenings round a campfire, and can provide an impromptu sleeping blanket for a slumbering babe.

For Dad

If there’s a dad in your life who loves the outdoors, whether fishing, hiking or camping wild, give him one of these warm, durable alpaca blankets as a companion on his adventures. For dads who like to hunker down with their kids reading stories, a wool throw will not only keep them all snug, it can double as a fort if attention wanders.

For the traveller

For the travel-loving, active person in your life a trusty wool throw can be packed up in their bag of essential kit and will double as a picnic blanket, shawl and extra bedding if they’re sleeping out under the stars. Whether bundled into a backpack or rolled up in a tote, every adventurer needs this versatile piece of kit. And not only are our throws practical and hard-wearing, they’re great-looking too.

For the interior design fan

If you need a gift for an interiors fan who loves browsing Pinterest for ideas on home improvements or flicking through the latest Elle Deco, then look no further. A beautiful mohair wool throw can instantly refresh the look of a bedroom or sitting room. Draped, tucked or folded, this is the ideal gift for someone with their finger on the design pulse.

For the lover of fine things

For someone who loves the finer things in life, a cashmere throw is the ultimate luxurious gift. They will love the exquisite softness and quality of our cashmere throw, and you will love the price. This is a keepsake gift to treasure for now and well into the future. A truly special present.

For someone who is all of these

Really, most of us love to surround ourselves with beautiful things made from the best, natural, materials. We want to feel loved, safe and sheltered, as well as to protect those around us. Sometimes we feel like hibernating and other times we crave adventure. A Woolme wool throw can do all of this, whatever mood we’re in and whatever life brings us in that moment. Which makes it pretty much the perfect gift for everybody, no?

5 Perfect New Wool Throws for a Cozy Fall

October 11, 2018 Tags: cashmere blankets, cashmere throws, wool throw No Comments

As the days get shorter and the evenings begin to feel distinctly chilly, it’s time to think about getting your home ready for a cozy Fall. With more time spent indoors, whether curled up on the sofa watching a movie, or tucked up in bed with a breakfast tray and a good book, Fall is all about hunkering down. Whilst we don’t advocate full-on hibernation (we all need to get outside and move!) there is nothing we love more at this time of year than snuggling up with our loved ones in the warmth of a beautiful woollen throw in front of a fire.

And just in time for Fall, we’re excited to present our new collection of supersoft wool throws and blankets that will keep you toasty and transform your room. Inspired by the colours of Fall these throws come in rich, earthy tones that reflect fallen leaves, still winter seas, woodland mushrooms, wet grass, pumpkins, autumn sunsets, moss and moody skies. With a wide choice of colour, wool and pattern, there really is something for every home.

Everest throw

Crafted from 100% pure cashmere our Everest throws are deliciously soft and oh-so warm. In a range of 7 muted colourways these throws work with all interior decor schemes, adding warmth and depth to a minimalist space, or adding a note of tranquility to a busy room.

Eva throw

Another pure cashmere beauty, the Eva throw is the epitome of simple, pared-back elegance. The three gentle colourways look just as lovely used as shawl as draped over your bed or sofa.

Emilio throw

In beautiful cool, jewel-like blues, from turquoise to aqua, the Emilio cashmere throw will become a staple of your Fall preparations for Winter. It will lift a simple decor palette and evoke a feeling of coastlines, endless skies, clear rivers and ice cool lakes.

Ernesto throw

Our Ernesto throw is comprised of 20% cashmere and 80% merino wool, a blend that gives ultra-softness and durability. You can choose from three subtle colourways, which each have a reverse side side in grey/ taupe and contrast fringing.

Tito throw

Echoing the russet tones of autumn leaves, sweeping sunsets and wood fires, the Tito throw comes in a gorgeous earthy colourway blended with a grey base. There are also grey and gentle green options, each creating a lovely texture and understated pattern to the blanket.

With all of these wool throws you can change up the feel of a room, or create a warm nest in which you can feel supported, comforted and nurtured. They make ideal gifts, whether for a student embarking on a new life adventure in their own home, for an elderly relative who is starting to feel the cold, or for a precious girlfriend who needs to feel surrounded by warmth and friendship. And they are the perfect way to treat yourself, too.

To read more about the qualities of, and how to care for cashmere go here. For tips on how to style your wool throw, try this.

5 Reasons Why Wool is Not Just for Winter

April 13, 2018 Tags: benefits of merino wool, cashmere throws, home decorating with wool, wool base layers, wool for spring, wool throws, wool throws for picnic, wool yarn 1 Comment

Despite the seemingly endless winter there are definite signs that Spring is afoot: tulips and primroses dotting gardens and lanes, longer evenings, ducklings paddling along behind their mamas, loud and joyful birdsong, and when the sun does shine there’s a power to it that just isn’t there in winter. It might seem like the time to be packing away your woollen blankets and clothes, storing them carefully for the Autumn. But don’t rush for the suitcases and packing bags just yet. Wool is not just for Winter.

Here are 5 reasons why we love wool in the Spring and Summer too:

1.Chilly evenings

Even late into Spring the evenings can still have a chill in the air. Once the central heating goes off and you’ve burned all your firewood it can be lovely to reach for a cosy woollen blanket as you read in bed, or curl up on the sofa in front of a movie. A natural wool throw will help you make this transition from fully heated house to flinging open the windows, keeping you warm when it’s time to hunker down.

2.Outdoor adventures

spring wool throw

As Spring gets underway we start planning camping trips and picnic outings. A wool throw is never far from hand on these outdoor adventures, whether used as an extra layer over a sleeping bag, or as the base for a casual picnic with friends. And woolly socks are pretty much essentials if you are sleeping outdoors as they will keep your feet toasty all night long, which means you will sleep better. Wool helps to regulate body temperature and wicks moisture away from your body, meaning you won’t wake up sweaty and overheated.

3.Stylish interiors

A less-than pristine sofa or chair can be given a new lease of life with the simple addition of a wool throw. Choose contrasting colours to make a statement, or opt for something neutral that adds a note of muted texture and tone. If you don’t want the expense of re-upholstering a chair, a throw is a great way to get the look you want at a fraction of the price. And if you change your mind in the future you can simply use the throw elsewhere and replace it with something new.

4.Sporty layers

merino wool base layer

Merino wool is much-loved by sportspeople, from runners to cyclists, hikers to climbers. Thanks to its superfine yarn it can be spun into lightweight layers that are ideal for wearing as a base layer, providing some extra warmth but with no extra bulk. Wool is anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking so you will feel fresh and dry, and if there is a sudden downpour it will keep the rain off you while you dash for shelter.

5.Getting crafty

Now might be the time to take up a new craft or hobby, like knitting or crochet. These crafts are easy to learn and can be very relaxing. You can take your project with you wherever you go too, from the bus ride to work to sitting in a children’s play area watching your kids. Natural wool is a great basis for simple garments like scarves and cushion covers, and once you’ve honed your skills you can use the huge range of different woollen yarns to create beautiful handmade items that you – and others- will really treasure.

So, whilst it might be a good time to retire your chunky woollen sweaters, don’t rush to pack away the wool. There’s plenty more use for those wool throws, cosy socks, fine base layers and balls of yarn yet.

4 Beautiful Ways to Style Your Wool Throw

March 30, 2018 Tags: alpaca blanket, home decorating with wool, how to style a wool throw, merino blanket, wool throw No Comments

A pure wool throw is one of those things that every household should have. Versatile, stylish, cosy and long-lasting, a wool throw is more than just a blanket.

It’s a comfort when you are ill and tucked up in bed. It’s something to snuggle up with your loved ones under on Film Night. It’s a fort. It’s a picnic blanket to lie back on in a summer’s field. It’s something to wrap yourself in around a campfire. It’s a way to freshen up a tired sofa or bedroom. We wouldn’t be without one. Or two.

Here’s four beautiful ways to style your wool throw:

1.Draped over a sofa

Draping a wool throw over the back or seat of your sofa will brighten up the sofa and can unify the colour scheme of the room. If you have a minimalist, neutral room then a simple throw in mustard and grey can add a gentle wash of colour without dominating the room. If you love bold colours go for contrasting tones and patterns with a wool throw in multicolours. And it will be readily on hand if you need a bit of extra warmth in the evening while you read, talk or catch up on a box set. If you want extra textures add some pure wool sheepskins and linen cushions.

2.Out on a picnic

Wool is hardwearing, anti-bacterial and can be easily spot-cleaned, which makes a wool throw an ideal picnic blanket. Simply roll up, add some napkins, plate and cutlery, and you’ve got an Insta-worthy picnic right there. Choose an alpaca or merino wool blanket for extra comfort as you recline and watch the clouds scud across the sky, or share some fresh bread and cheese with friends. When you’re done, just give the throw a good shake and wipe off any spills, then store ready for your next outdoor adventure.

3.On your bed

A lovely way to create a calm mood in a bedroom is to use similar colours in your bedlinen. Crisp whites or soft blues and greys will still the mind and help you feel rested. A throw in complementary tones will add to this harmonious feel. Here we’ve styled a bed in supersoft linen bedlinen and added a throw in a slightly darker colour to keep things simple but to add a layer of luxurious colour and texture.

4.Over a chair

Use a lovely wool throw to disguise an old upholstered chair if you want a change of scene but don’t want to go the whole hog and get it reupholstered. Easy to wash and care for, a wool throw will cover all manner of sins on a piece of pre-loved furniture. They also look welcoming and homely folded neatly over the arm of a chair or sofa, as if inviting guests and family alike to get comfy and make themselves at home.

How do you use your wool throws at home? Any fun or stylish uses we haven’t thought of?

Tips on Taking Care of Cashmere

March 30, 2018 Tags: caring after cashmere, cashmere, cashmere blanket, Cashmere care, cashmere garments, cashmere throw, Wool care, wool throw, woolme No Comments

Both durable and practical cashmere is one of the most luxurious cold weather materials. In order to keep it in excelent condition and enjoy its durability cashmere needs to be taken care of properly. We piled together a bunch of useful tips that will come in handy when properly cleaning and storing your cashmere garments.

From Lambs to Lagom: Why wool is everywhere this Spring

March 16, 2018 Tags: benefits of merino wool, benefits of wool, cashmere blanket, lambswool, merino wool, wool for all seasons, wool for spring, wool throws No Comments

There are few more happy-making things than seeing new lambs frolicking in their fields. As Spring approaches we take a celebratory look at why wool is everywhere this season, from lambs to lagom.

Lambswool

Fluffy white lambs are one of the traditional Eastertime symbols, adorning cards and merchandising everywhere. We love their carefree tumbling and their gangly legs, and they represent rebirth and renewal as the seasons turn. While these new additions won’t be shorn in their first year, their fleeces will be perfect for shearing next year. This will produce the supersoft lambswool so beloved by fashion and home textile makers. The older sheep will be shorn shortly after the lambing season is over, ready for the warmer weather. This wool will then be sorted, washed, picked and combed in preparation for dyeing. The lifecycle of your wool throw or cosy sweater begins with these little bundles of fun gambolling around the countryside.

Lagom

Replacing ‘hygge‘ as the new Scandi-inspired trend, ‘lagom’ offers more than a moment of comfort or happiness. The concept of lagom comes from Sweden and is a longer-term idea of finding balance and peace by just having enough. Translated it means ‘just the right amount’. To live with lagom means to avoid excessive consumerism, to create a balance between work and personal time, to be moderate and frugal. It has inspired people to live more sustainably, choosing clothes and homewares that have a reduced impact on the environment. Like natural wool. Living more sustainably means buying good quality items that will have a long lifetime, things that are produced with are as free from harm as possible. Wool is a durable, long-lasting material, and means that those investment pieces, like wool picnic blankets or baby throws, will keep on looking beautiful for years. There’s a simplicity to wool that chimes perfectly with the idea of lagom. Just right.

Lightweight wool

As the weather warms up you may not need your really chunky knitwear but there is still a place for woollies. Spring can bring sudden changes in temperature, with snowfall and frosts still a possibility. The answer here is to wear layers and to include lightweight wool garments made from merino wool. This is less bulky whilst retaining all the benefits of wool: temperature regulation, moisture wicking, durable, dirt-repellant. You can get highly sophisticated sportswear ‘skins’ made from merino wool to wear as a base layer, or opt for a simple transitional piece like a merino sweater paired with a linen shirt or bigger cardigan if it’s chilly.

Lazy evenings

Despite the fact that the evenings are lighter for longer, there is still something delicious about curling up indoors under a warm, soft wool throw after a long day. Whether you love to read or catch up with the latest Instagram stories, creating a moment of stillness and cosiness in the evening is great for your wellbeing. It’s not quite warm enough to sit outside in the evenings where we are, but it won’t be long. And you can be sure we’ll have blankets, hot drinks and food at the ready.

1 2 3 4 … 12