Lambswool Guide

Uber soft, lightweight, and fully sustainable, English spun lambswool is a great starting point when crafting luxury natural fibre knitwear.
 

Have you ever wondered why lambswool has been so popular for centuries? Would you like to learn more about its benefits and uses?

Lambswool is ideal for shawls, sweaters, and other accessories as it is a versatile, high-quality material. Its naturally-crimped fibres give it a fluffy texture and warmth while remaining lightweight and durable.

In this guide, we will examine the properties of lambswool in detail and discuss how it is used today. We'll take a look at some of the unique qualities that make it so appealing, as well as its range of applications in fashion and home decorations. So read on to discover all you need to know about lambswool!

Where Our Lambswool Is Sourced From?

We source the lambswool yarn used across our collections from industry experts Z. Hinchliffe & Sons (Est. 1766). This assured foundation allows us to create butter soft garments, providing you with all the warmth of a chunkier jumper, minus the additional weight.
 
Hinchliffe source their lambswool from the Geelong area of Australia as they are globally recognised as having the most elite, luxurious fibres available. Only the shortest, finest fibres are selected during the spinning process which results in a beautifully soft and fluffy handle.

What Is Lambswool?

Lambswool is a type of wool made from the fleece of sheep, usually those under 12 months old. It's often used to make plush blankets and garments because of its softness, warmth, durability and silky-smooth texture.
The fibres of lambswool are some of the finest in the wool industry. The extra insulation provided by lambswool helps keep you warm while the fabric is light enough to make you feel comfortable wearing it all day long.
Garments made with lambswool tend to be lightweight because the fibres are delicate, and the fabric’s density is bigger and better than other types of wool yarns. It also has a natural elasticity that allows it to retain its shape and resist stretching. 
All these properties make lambswool ideal for creating lightweight sweaters that are warm enough for the fall and winter, yet not overly thick or bulky.
 
100% ultra soft lambswool luxury natural fibre knitwear
 

Continue reading to discover the five clever characteristics that make lambswool knitwear our seasonal go-to.

 Benefits Of Lambswool

 

1. Hypoallergenic

 
As lambswool fibres are both short and fine, they require less processing than wool from an older sheep. This leads to garments that are less likely to itch and irritate the skin. It also has naturally hypoallergenic qualities which make it suitable for those with allergies.

 

2. Temperature Regulating

 
Lambswool fibres are hollow and so air can easily circulate throughout the jumper preventing overheating. Lambswool is a breathable yarn and continuously adjusts to external conditions and weather changes. Unlike synthetic fibres and blends, these properties are naturally occurring, and your knit will self-regulate, working with your body temperature to keep you warm and cosy, but never clammy.

 

3. Low Maintenance

 
Whilst the wash care instructions of your lambswool knitwear should be followed meticulously, as dirt tends to sit on the surface of the garment, instead of being absorbed, your knit will be easy to clean and require less washing. Leaving your lambswool to air in a breezy room will keep your garment fresh for longer and steaming your jumper in between wears will mean that it requires less hard washing, only standing to increase the lifespan of your knit.

4. Skin Friendly

  
 
Lambswool is incredibly soft due to the fibres being sourced from the sheep’s first coat. This gives it an almost fleece-like surface texture and when cared for correctly, your lambswool knitwear will retain its ultra-fluffy handle. Avoiding machine washing will allow the fibres to move with your body, preventing irritation or prickliness.
 
 

5. Moisture Resistant

 
 
Lambswool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water before becoming damp and heavy. This makes it ideal for everyday wear as you’re less likely to sweat and any perspiration is removed from the surface of the skin. It’s a naturally clever fibre and has been favoured by outdoor explorers and adventurers throughout the years due to its lightweight nature and its ability to keep the wearer cool and dry and free from moisture.
 

Is Lambswool Itchy?

For many people, lambswool material feels very soft and comfortable. But it can be itchy for people with sensitive skin since lambswool tends to be thicker than other wool types. The lambswool fibres can often become softer and less itchy after being washed. 

It's also good to know that many manufacturers pre-wash their wool. Dirt and debris have been removed, so this process helps reduce potential itchiness.

Is Lambswool Clothing Warm? 

The short answer is yes. Lambswool is one of the most sought-after insulating materials due to its ability to provide warmth while still remaining lightweight and comfortable.

The natural crimp of lambswool fibres helps insulate your body from cool temperatures by trapping air. Lambswool is lightweight and perfect for layering.

Is Lambswool Fibre Durable? 

Lambswool is renowned for its durability and longevity as a natural fibre. Its fibres have a natural resilience that allows them to keep their form and inhibit stretching.

 

This means that lambswool clothes and textiles can maintain their form and look despite several uses and laundry. Additionally, lambswool is naturally resistant to fire, bacteria, and odours.

 

How Should I Care For My Lambswool Clothes?

Follow the below tips for keeping your lambswool products looking like new:

  • Always read the care label on the garment before washing or cleaning.
  • Wash on a gentle cycle and use cool water (Hand washing with mild detergent is preferred).
  • Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
  • Gently wring out excess water. Do not twist it.
  • Lay it flat to dry. Avoid hanging, as this can stretch the fibres.
  • Avoid exposing the lambswool to high heat, such as in the dryer or direct sunlight, as it can cause shrinkage or damage to the fibres.
  • Iron while damp on a low heat setting.
  • Store the garment in a cool, dry place.
  • Avoid storing lambswool-made products in a plastic bag as this can trap moisture and cause damage.
  • Regularly brush or comb the lambswool to remove dirt, dust and pilling.
  • Have it professionally cleaned if necessary.
  • Avoid over-washing and spot clean.

 

At Paul James Knitwear, we use only the finest wool, creating lambswool clothing, textiles and accessories of superior quality.

 

We offer a variety of men's and women's clothing made with soft and warm lambswool so that our customers feel comfortable and chic in our clothes.

 

Our collection of jumpers, cardigans, scarves and hats is perfect for any special event or everyday wear. Shop now and experience the luxurious comfort of lambswool crafted by Paul James Knitwear.

 

____