10 Reasons to Craft with Wool
I’ve recently been thinking about the simple joy and purpose that comes from being around sheep, spinning their wool into yarn, and knitting it up into cozy garments.
Humans have had a long and intertwined history with sheep, dating back thousands of years. The domestication of sheep is believed to have begun around 10,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia and the Middle East. Initially hunted for their meat and hides, sheep gradually became valued for their wool, which provided warmth and protection.
Throughout history, sheep have played a significant role in human civilization. They were essential to early agricultural societies, providing wool for clothing, milk for sustenance, and meat for consumption. Sheep farming became a cornerstone of many economies, particularly in regions with favorable grazing lands. There is something truly magical about the connection that can exist between a human and animal; a bond that goes beyond mere caretaking.
Helping out at a local farm with Jacob sheep, learning to shear sheep, and processing dozens of fleeces into everyday garments has deepened my connection to nature and inspired me to one day have my own flock.
The process of spinning wool is a labor of love, honoring tradition and craftsmanship. Each garment I knit carries the essence of the sheep and the story of their lives. It's a meditative process that brings a sense of accomplishment and pride. Moreover, wearing garments made from sheep I've cared for feels like wearing a piece of history, connecting me to the land and our shared heritage. I hope sharing this experience inspires others to find joy in this timeless craft.
I wanted to share with you some of the reasons why I have developed a profound joy and purpose when it comes to crafting with wool:
Natural Insulation: Wool is an excellent insulator, providing warmth in cold weather and windy weather. The unique structure of wool fibers traps air, which creates a layer of insulation that helps regulate body temperature.
Moisture Wicking: Unlike synthetic fibers, wool can absorb environmental moisture (e.g., rain, humidity) or sweat from the body, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. It can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp, making it ideal for activewear and outdoor garments. This property even goes well beyond other natural fibers like cottons and linens.
Breathability: Wool's suitability for warmer weather, despite common perceptions as a winter fabric, stems from its unique breathability. Unlike cotton, which can absorb moisture but tends to hold onto it, wool has the ability to wick moisture away from the body and release it into the air, making it a comfortable choice even in hot and humid conditions. This natural moisture-wicking property helps regulate body temperature by allowing sweat to evaporate quickly, keeping the skin dry and cool. This process occurs because wool fibers have a crimped structure that creates tiny air pockets within the fabric, enhancing its breathability and ventilation. As a result, clothing made from wool can provide insulation in cooler temperatures while remaining breathable and lightweight in warmer weather, making it a versatile choice for year-round wear. If you’ve ever had a pair of wool socks, you might have noticed that they require less frequent washing than cottons or nylons blends thanks to this amazing property of the wool fibers.
Elasticity: Wool fibers have a natural elasticity that allows them to stretch and recover their shape, making wool ideal for garments and accessories that require flexibility and comfort. Whether you're knitting a form-fitting sweater or crocheting a snug hat, wool's inherent stretchiness ensures a comfortable and flattering fit that moves with the body. This elasticity also contributes to the durability of woolen items, as they can withstand repeated wear and washing without losing their shape or becoming misshapen.
Versatility: Wool can be easily manipulated and crafted into various forms, making it suitable for a wide range of projects beyond insulation. From clothing and accessories like sweaters, scarves, and hats to home decor items such as blankets, rugs, and pillows, wool offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression. Its natural fibers can be spun, felted, knitted, crocheted, woven, dyed, and embroidered, allowing artisans to experiment with different techniques and textures to bring their ideas to life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, working with wool provides opportunities for exploration and innovation, making it a favored material in the crafting community.
Durability and Resilience: Wool fibers are naturally durable and resistant to wear and tear. They have a high tensile strength, meaning they can withstand stretching and bending without losing shape or integrity. Wool garments are known for their longevity, often lasting for years with proper care. Wool is also naturally fire-resistant (has a high ignition temperature) and does not melt or drip when exposed to flames, making it an ideal choice for insulation in areas where fire safety is a concern.
Biodegradability: Wool is a renewable and biodegradable fiber, derived from the fleece of sheep (or other animals like alpacas and goats). Unlike synthetic fibers, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, wool breaks down naturally in the environment, reducing environmental impact.
Historical Significance: Wool has a rich history dating back thousands of years, from ancient civilizations to medieval Europe and beyond. It has been prized for its warmth, softness, and versatility, playing a central role in clothing and textile production throughout history. Agricultural communities to this day use wool as house insulation because it prevents moisture buildup, is prevents fires, and insulates much better than synthetic insulations.
Sustainability: Wool production is generally eco-friendly and sustainable when managed responsibly. Sheep grazing can help maintain healthy ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and soil health. Additionally, wool can be produced using low-impact and organic farming practices, further minimizing environmental impact. I highly recommend trying to find a local sheep farm to source your wool! Most farmers would be more than happy to show you around, which would allow you to ensure there are ethical practices in place. Also, if you aren’t looking to
Affordability: Wool's affordability is often overlooked, but it can be a cost-effective choice for crafting and insulation projects. While premium wool varieties can be pricey, there are many budget-friendly options available, making wool accessible to a wide range of budgets. Additionally, wool's durability and longevity can offer long-term savings, as items crafted from wool tend to last longer than their synthetic counterparts. When considering the overall value and lifespan of wool products, its affordability becomes evident. Furthermore, wool insulation can contribute to energy savings by reducing heating and cooling costs, offsetting initial investment expenses over time. Overall, while initial costs may vary, the affordability of wool, coupled with its durability and energy-saving benefits, make it a compelling choice for various applications. Honestly, I’ve found that small businesses or local farmers often have the best prices, which is a win-win in my opinion.
BONUS - Emotional Connection: Crafting with wool evokes a sense of connection to nature, tradition, and craftsmanship. The act of creating something with one's hands using a natural and sustainable material can be deeply fulfilling and rewarding, which creates a sense of accomplishment and pride. Moreover, the finished product carries with it the story of the wool's origins, adding an extra layer of meaning and nostalgia to the craft. Since I have embraced wool in my crafting and wardrobe, I have become completely enamored by this magical fiber.
I’ve found that the longer it takes me to craft something (not by my laziness which does happen…), but by incorporating additional ways for me to be involved in the final-products’ completion, makes the project that much more special to me. I talk a bit more about this “slow” or “traditional” approach to crafting in my previous blog post “10 Reasons to Craft More ‘Traditionally’.”
