In tomorrow's Sweater Sunday post all the sweaters will be 100% merino wool, so I thought i'd post some facts & information about merino sweaters for those who are not familiar.
The average merino sweater is thin and super soft. Merino is smoother, and less fuzzy, than most wools. Most people who feel they can't wear wool because it is "too itchy", can tolerate merino because of it's softness.
Merino is the softest type of sheep's wool. Merino is excellent for diaper covers, because of it's softness, but generally needs 2 layers if they are thinner. I like to use them as the inside layer for diaper covers, or double them up.
Because of it's softness & stretchiness, as long as it's not overly felted, merino is great for waistbands, hat bands, mittens & liners for mittens, leg warmers, clothing, and so much more.
When merino is heavily felted, it is similar in density & texture to craft felt, so it is great for appliques, slippers, purses, and more.
Merino has the same properties as all wool... naturally moisture wicking, hypoallergenic, fire retardant, insulated, and just plain fabulous! Merino wool is commonly used in higher end running clothes for these reasons, and because it is thin & smooth.
There's not much merino can't do!
Any questions? :)
9 comments:
Thanks for the information! Hmmm... may have to go thrifting today! I still need to sit down with my sewing machine and get reacquainted with it!
I sometimes have a harder time getting my merino sweaters to felt all the way. Any idea why?
Some merino sweaters are treated with chemicals, so they won't felt. Avoid sweaters that say "superwash" on them or "machine washable". Do look for "dry clean only" or "hand wash in cold". Sometimes it is mercerized too and won't felt.
I love Merino wool. It is the best stuff to work with. I like it more than cashmere. If they don't felt enough, I just do them again. I think I've had one that is mercerized. I was convinced that it was mislabeled because it felt like cotton and felted like cotton (ie it didn't felt at all)
Lora, I wonder if it was cotton, and it got mislabeled. I've noticed that many of the companies that make mens merino sweaters will make the same style in cotton as well, so it would be an easy mix up.
I prefer merino to cashmere too... less fuzzy.
awesome info here :) I also have had trouble with felting merino, but like you mentioned, it's all been "washable" wool.
I am having a love affair with merino lately. And I can always find it at my local thrift store in large supply. Yay!
Thanks
Wool base layer? Then it has to be Merino wool. Nothing comes close to the quality of the material and you can be sure to warm and toasty. I've tried the Ibex Woolies Zip T, the Merino 365 New Zealand Longsleeve Baselayer and the Mountain Hardwear Integral Pro. These are tapered, streamlined and durable. For more reviews of the best, check out this site to learn more: http://backpackingmastery.com/top-picks/best-merino-wool-base-layer.html
Post a Comment