What is Virgin Wool ?
- The term "virgin wool" can be used to describe two different types of textiles that are derived from the hair fibers of sheep.
- In some contexts, this term may refer to wool from a baby lamb's first shearing, but in other situations, it may refer to wool that has not been recycled.
History
- The thought of clothing being made from recycled wool is somewhat of a foreign one to the modern fashion-lover.
- However, during World War II there was a shortage of new fabrics, along with many other things.
- This meant companies and people had to make do with what was already available to them, e.g. already processed wool.
- Many wool clothes were made from recycled wool from old clothes and even furniture. It’s thought that during this time is when non-recycled wool took on the name ‘virgin wool.’
- Virgin describes something that has never been used and hence it was the perfect fit for unprocessed wool.
- Nowadays we don’t have a shortage of new fabric but the name has stuck and is often used to refer to higher quality wool.
- This is due to virgin wool being stronger than wool that has already been used .
What Makes it Stand Out
- Naturally breathable in both cold and warm weather .
- Water-repellent, durable and insulating .
- Since virgin wool fibers haven’t been shredded like recycled wool, they’re more resilient—they don’t break or wrinkle as easily and can provide more stretch.
- A shirt made of virgin wool can last for decades.
Texture | Very soft |
Fall | Drapable |
Shine | Subtle sheen |
Sheer | Opaque |
Applications & Usage
- Virgin wool is used for slippers, clothing items such as jumpers, as well as home items such as blankets and rugs.
- As virgin wool is more robust than other types of wool it’s a great material to use for items like slippers that need to be durable, soft, and warm.
Apparel | Yes |
Home Decor | Yes |
Accessories | Yes |
Image Reference -https://lorenaantoniazzi.com/en/products/a2129cp32a_3583_a2129b1100
Image Reference - https://www.chicbasta.com/products/peach-grey-white-100-virgin-wool-blanket-queen-size
Care Instructions
- Empty all pockets and hang for 1-2 hours to shake out the wrinkles and then store flat.
- You can also make sure that the garment do not get too much dirty with sweat and body oils by wearing a slip / petticoat between the wool fabric and your body.
- The time to remove stain from wool is as soon as the stain occurs. Do not wait.
- Blotting the area with a clean towel by dabbing the area gently (never rub) works for removing fresh stains.
- If you are using a spot cleaner or detergent remember to take it off by blotting with a wet cloth. But do not rub too much or too long.
- Always brush the wool garment after each and every wear. This will remove small dirt.
- Handwashing is preferred for woolen clothes made of 100% virgin wool yarns . Use an extra gentle liquid ph balanced liquid detergent always use cold water for washing woolen clothes.
- Also like silk give a final rinse with a water mixed with a few drops of hair conditioner.
- Never ever stretch woolen fabric or clothes made of them when they are wet.
- Never ever hang the wet woolen cloth for drying after a wash or hold it by the shoulder area.
- Lay down flat to dry after the wash after absorbing extra water with a clean towel.
- Iron on wool setting mode on medium heat .
Reference Links
https://sewport.com/fabrics-directory/virgin-wool-fabric
https://blog.pendleton-usa.com/2017/02/14/what-is-virgin-wool-and-is-it-better-than-recycled-wool/
https://en.giesswein.com/blogs/News/what-is-virgin-wool/
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