Types of Wool

A variety of pure and blended wool is produced in different countries, for manufacturing apparels, home furnishings and other products. The quality and type of wool depends on animal from which it is obtained.

Popular types of wools are:

• Yak wool
• Sheep wool eg merino wool, lamb wool
• Alpaca wool
• Goat wool
• Rabbit wool

Classification for Wool
Wool produced in various countries may be classified into four groupings according to the quality of the wool produced.

• Merino Wool: Merino sheep produce the best quality wool. The fiber has the greatest amount of crimps of all wool fibers and also the maximum number of scales contributing to superior warmth and spinning qualities. Australia is the largest producer of merino wool, followed by New Zealand, South America and Spain.
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• Class-Two wools: This class of sheep wool originated in countries like England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. This variety of wool is next to the merino wool in quality. The fibers are strong, elastic and strong and have good working properties.
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• Class-Three wools: This class of wool originated in the United Kingdom. The fibers are coarser, have fewer scales and less crimps when compared to the merino wool.
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• Class Four wools: This class of wool is obtained from a group of mongrel sheep, also referred as the half-breeds. The fibers are coarse, very very few scales and little crimps. The wool is smoother and more lustrous.