Wool is a beautiful lustrous natural protein fiber that comes from the fleece of sheep. The fiber is resilient, soft, springy and extremely durable. Wool is extremely resistant to abrasion which makes the fiber an excellent choice for carpeting, drapery, rugs, upholstery and clothing. Wool is also known for its flame retardant qualities. Wool has a wonderful touch giving it an appealing hand.
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Felt is a non woven cloth that is made by getting the wool fibers wet along with the combination of abrasion. Wool felt can be made into any shape and is used for many things including the covering of tennis balls.
The term spinster comes from the oldest unmarried daughter in a family who had the task of spinning the wool to make clothing. Natural wool varies in color from beige hues to brown, black and grey. Once the fiber is bleached it dyes beautifully to any color and will hold its color for long periods of time. Berber carpeting is made out of wool that has not been dyed and has been left in its natural color reflecting the natural specks of grey, black, and brown against neutral beige.
The downside of wool is that some people have an allergic reaction to the fiber; it is susceptible to moths and can be expensive. Wool fibers made into yarn for knitting and crocheting projects from apparel to home furnishings is very popular. Sites like Etsy are full of crafters creatively using wool and felt. Here are some examples of some of the many uses of wool.
Wool Trophy by Rachel Denny
Stools by Claire Ann OBrien
Toadstool Pillow by Viva Terra
Pendleton Blanket
Pom Pon Chair by Crop Design
Wool Chair and Stool by Baita Design
Crocheted & Knit Flowers
Vogue Knitting
Wool Stools from Wood & Wool
