Natural merino wool. Merino wool - what is it? Features and Benefits

Merino wool is unique. It has all the properties of expensive synthetic fabrics, but it is absolutely natural and environmentally friendly. So what is it?

Merinos are small, in comparison with their relatives, sheep, which are bred solely for the sake of high-quality wool. Merino wool has a pleasant light beige color and consists of fine and soft fibers, which gives the yarn or fabric an incredible softness.

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Merino wool properties

In its structure, the merino six resembles a membrane. Empty spaces are formed between the thinnest fibers, creating an air gap that will maintain body temperature. The fact is that Merino lives in a harsh climate, where winters are cold and summers are hot. Nature has taken care so that the sheep does not freeze and does not get heat stroke.

Pros and cons of merino wool

1. improves blood circulation;
2. beneficial effect on muscles and joints;
3. help to cope with edema;
4. hypoallergenic;
5. maintains body temperature;
6. wicks away moisture while retaining heat.

Merino wool has many advantages, but only one disadvantage. Natural merino wool without impurities is very expensive.

Using merino wool

Due to the unique properties of wool merino wool is increasingly used in light industry. Unlike any other wool, it is very soft, which makes the products popular among children and adults. What products are made from merino wool?

Hair care

Regardless of the type of product Merino wool requires careful handling. In order for the product to serve for a long time and not lose its properties, you need to follow simple rules:

Merino hand knitting yarn

Merino yarn is popular among needlewomen. Therefore, it can be found in any specialized store. Despite the same composition: 100% merino wool, quality may vary. The threads may consist of short or long fibers. It depends on how quickly pellets begin to appear on the product. Although merino wool is prone to matting, this is worth considering.

Hand-knitted merino

From merino yarn you can knit everything. It is perfect for children's clothing. Even a newborn can wear socks and suits made of this wool without fear. One of the most popular items in a baby's wardrobe is panties for natural swaddling. They are used by parents, refusing disposable diapers in favor of natural and environmentally friendly materials. Most often these pants knitted from fine merino six, because of its wonderful properties.

Merino Product Reviews

Merino wool

I knit to order. Before I offer this or that yarn to the customer, I definitely test it. Merino came into my hands. The thread is very thick, for 12 mm knitting needles. The hat can be knitted in two hours. The yarn appears to be a little tangled and stiff. But after washing it becomes soft as a cloud. Unfortunately, these threads cost as much as an airplane, and the product is even more.

Marta (knit to order)

Merino pants

My wife gave me merino pants. I work on the street both in winter and summer, I collect houses from a bar. I always wore fleece thermal underwear to work and never complained. As for the merino underpants, they did not seem to inspire confidence in me. Thin, tight fitting.

In fact, they turned out to be quite suitable.

The high waist protects my lower back from the cold wind. I constantly raise my hands and bend down. Usually half the winter I suffered with back pain. Incredibly, but true, after putting on these pants, the back hurts less often.

I thought that the legs would itch, the underpants are very similar to women's tights, they fit tightly. But the material is very soft, thin and not felt under clothing.

Of course, underpants alone will not warm in cold weather, but it is pleasant to wear them.

Merino wool blanket

Blankets have their pros and cons. There are more benefits, of course. But first things first.

The duvet is warm and light. You almost don't feel it. This is a definite plus. For a year and a half of operation, it has not changed at all. It did not stray into a lump and did not heat up less.

The downside is the smell of wool. I may have a keen sense of smell, but I can still smell the sheep. It's not offensive, but it's palpable. The husband claims that he does not feel anything. Well, the biggest downside is the price.

Conclusion: I really like the blanket. The high price, of course, repels, but it is worth the money.

Natalya K.

Merino thermal underwear

I have twin girls. They were born prematurely in mid-January. Naturally, the question arose about insulation. My choice fell on children's merino thermal underwear. These pink jumpsuits fully met my requirements:

1. Natural composition: 100% wool.
2. Soft and does not irritate children's skin.

Of the minuses, I can note the following:

1. After a few washes in the machine, the jumpsuit has stretched a bit.
2. Spools appear quite quickly in just a week.
3. High price. Especially for two.

Despite the shortcomings, thermal underwear did an excellent job. Will definitely buy a larger size for next winter.

I hope my review was helpful to you.

Since ancient times, the word wool symbolizes warmth, care and softness. Due to its high spinning qualities, wool is widely used in various areas of the textile industry. Wool yarn is similar in structure to human hair, so it is very comfortable in contact with the skin. Wool is a collective concept that includes the wool of a sheep, goat, camel, llama, rabbit and even a dog. The wool of various animals differs in properties and scope.

Merino wool is wool sheared from the withers of a Merino sheep. Merinos (Spanish: merino (singular) and los merinos (plural)) are a breed of sheep with uniform fine wool. It is believed that the Merino breed comes from Spain, where for many centuries breeders have been painstakingly working to improve the quality of wool. In the 12th - 16th centuries, due to the quality of the wool of bred sheep, the Spaniards were monopolists in the wool market. Until the 17th century, the export of merino from Spain was considered a crime and punishable by death. At the end of the 18th century, the first Spanish merinos were brought to Australia and New Zealand. Centuries later, the number of merinos in Australia has reached a record high: currently, 70,000 sheep farmers here raise about 155 million sheep.

Australia's climate is unique. The presence of desert and semi-desert, maritime and Mediterranean climate make this country an unusual climatic zone, which undoubtedly affects the quality of sheep's wool. Australians are literally obsessed with sheep. Merinos are national pride, the main source of income in the economy and a favorite hobby. The most popular sport in Australia is sheep shearing.

Merinos are real champions in terms of the amount of wool produced. One sheep produces up to 15 kg of wool fibers per year, which is equal to a thread 8 thousand kilometers long. Sheep of other breeds grow no more than 6-7 kg of fleece per year. The main advantage of merino wool is not in quantity, but in the quality of wool, which is distinguished by the highest consumer performance. The thickness of the fibers of fine-wool merino wool is only 14.5-23 microns, which is twice as thin as a human hair (40 microns). For coarse wool sheep, this parameter is 25-35 microns. Tiny thousandths of a millimeter difference makes a huge difference. Firstly, white, soft, thin and elastic merino wool cannot be confused with anything, even a non-specialist will distinguish it. Secondly, at a thickness of more than 23 microns, wool yarn already begins to itch and can cause an allergic reaction.

To make yarn, merino wool is sheared only from the withers. It is at the withers that sheep have a special fine-fleeced wool with a thickness of less than 23 microns. In addition, merino wool stands out from other types of wool with its extraordinary resilience. Merinos have natural curls on the withers and stomach, so the elasticity of the yarn is created precisely because of the peculiarity of wool growth. Merino yarn, made from sheep's wool, is very fine and surprisingly strong. In addition, it is elegant, almost weightless and unusually warm. It is the lightness and strength of merino wool that allows you to make comfortable and sophisticated products from it.

The best batches of unwashed merino wool are annually exhibited at the Australian auction "Golden Bale". Famous textile brands and fashion houses participating in the auction are ready to pay any money for successful lots. In 2002, a record 110 kilogram bale of merino wool was sold for $460,000. Currently, 15% of merino wool in Australia is produced "under the roof", according to a new European technology that allows you to get wool of exclusive quality. Merinos are kept indoors, in special blankets, they are fed only with prepared food and they are closely monitored. Naturally, the cost of such wool is much higher than from sheep that graze freely, but extra-class merino wool is sold on the world market at $ 20-30 per 1 kg and more.

Types of merino wool

Merino wool labeled Strong from fibers 20-22.5 microns thick. The share of fibers of this type is approximately 80% of the world production of merino wool. Basically this
wool is used to make yarn for machine knitting. Sometimes, during the degeneration of the herd, the thickness of the sheep's wool fibers can increase and reach 28-30 microns. A situation arises when wool is considered merino not according to the main indicators, but only according to the type of animal from which it is obtained. Such wool is used to produce inexpensive yarn for hand knitting.

The following types of merino wool are rarely used for hand knitting due to their very high cost. But such coils can be found in small batches produced by the world's leading manufacturers.

Merino wool of medium diameter, indicated by the marking Medium. The thickness of wool fibers is 18-20 microns. The share of world production of this type of yarn is about 15%.

Fine wool with Fine marking. The thickness of the fibers is 16-17 microns. The share of world production of this type of yarn, among others, is 5-7%.

Very fine wool, indicated by the SuperFine marking. The fiber thickness is 14-15.5 microns. The world share of the production of this merino wool is extremely small - sometimes up to 0.1%. Very thin, light and fluffy merino wool is used exclusively for the manufacture of expensive fabrics and knitwear. It is this subspecies of unwashed wool that is put up at the Golden Bale auction, during which the best batch is determined in terms of color, softness and many other indicators, denoted by the same name Golden Bale. Even in the most favorable years, the weight of such a batch is no more than a few hundred kilograms.

Extrafine wool with Extrafine branding. The fiber thickness is 11.5-15 microns. This is the rarest and most expensive type of merino wool. The number of such sheep is not numerous, and so that the overvalued fiber does not get tangled and does not coarsen, in windy and rainy weather, animals walk around the pasture in special raincoats - capes. Extra fine merino wool is suitable for blending with other expensive yarns such as cashmere or silk. In New Zealand, they produce exclusive lightweight knitwear, which is created by mixing merino wool and opossum fur.

The thickness of the wool does not affect the noble properties: the highest quality fleece is inherent in all types of merino sheep. The twenty-first century is not in vain called the era of scientific and technological progress. In the textile industry, synthetics with a clearly defined set of qualities and properties are actively replacing natural materials. But even the most advanced technologies cannot endow artificial fabrics with the unique characteristics of natural merino wool. People have learned to clone sheep, but not merino wool, the wonderful properties of which cannot replace any existing material.

The magical properties of merino wool

Excellent moisture absorption. It is no secret that during an increase in ambient temperature or a cold, a person begins to sweat. Thus, his body gives off excess moisture, and tends to cool. Merino wool is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb up to 33% of its own weight in moisture. Wool heats up to the temperature of the human body and easily absorbs water accumulated between the bends of the fibers, which relieves a person from the unpleasant sensation of contact with wet material. Pillows, blankets, mattresses and any other products made of merino wool always stay dry.

Excellent thermal insulation. The finest crimped fibers of merino wool are considered the ideal thermal insulation material. Scientists have calculated that for one centimeter of merino wool there are up to 40 small waves, which form between themselves a kind of air cushions that do not allow either cold or heat to the body. That is why the world's leading manufacturers of products for sleep and relaxation often use merino wool as a filler.

Excellent soothing effect. Modern man lives in constant tension and surrounded by endless stimuli and stress. Merino wool contains lanolin, which softens and soothes the skin. Lanolin is actively used in cosmetology, including the production of safe emollient creams for breastfeeding mothers. Products made of soft merino wool lull you to sleep better than any sleeping pill. In addition, due to its exceptional tenderness and softness, merino wool will never scratch the skin.

Reliable protection against unpleasant odors. In our time, this property has become decisive for the use of merino wool in the production of sleeping textiles. High-quality and well-washed merino wool has no foreign odors. The creatine present in the fibers naturally destroys bacteria that live on human skin and cause unpleasant odors.

Unique self-cleaning effect. The core of each merino wool fiber consists of two types of cells with different moisture absorption properties. At high air humidity, some cells fill with water and swell, others simply change their size, which creates friction between the fibers. Therefore, products made from merino wool practically do not need to be cleaned. From time to time they just need to be ventilated in wet weather.

Antibacterial properties. Creatine, which is contained in merino wool, is an unfavorable environment for the development of bacteria and microscopic insects. In addition, a water repellant is formed on the surface of each fiber, repelling insect pests.

electrostatic properties. Merino wool reduces positive ionization on the human body. Positive ions have a very depressing effect on a person and open the way for many diseases and ailments, and wool helps even at the source of the problem.

Neutralization of toxic substances. More than a century ago, the famous researcher of the properties of wool, Professor Yeager, found that merino wool neutralizes toxic substances. Wool is a natural hydrophobic protein, consisting of amino acids, which are endowed with the ability to neutralize toxic substances - ammonia compounds.

Hypoallergenic. Merino wool is non-allergenic and contains 8-10% lanolin. Dissolving at a temperature of 35-37 ºС, lanolin penetrates the skin and has a beneficial effect on the joints, muscles, spine and respiratory system, and also stimulates blood circulation.

High medicinal properties. Any disease of the respiratory tract disrupts the electrical potential in the human body, which is not equalized by any drug. Merino wool has a unique ability to equalize electrical potential, which significantly speeds up recovery. Wool softens and soothes acute pain, treats arthritis, rheumatism, sciatica, helps with fractures, when nursing patients with bedsores, and also contributes to a speedy recovery from viral infections that often occur in the autumn-winter period. It is believed that treatment with merino wool is akin to acupuncture. Even in ancient times, seriously ill patients were nursed on the skins of sheep. Today this method is used in many countries. Due to the unique properties of merino wool to take and evaporate excess moisture, as well as nourish the skin with lanolin, the effect of the main causes leading to bedsores - friction, pressure and moisture is significantly reduced. Products made from this wool perform a gentle micro-massage of the nerve endings of the human body at the capillary level, which normalizes blood pressure and improves blood circulation throughout the body.

Merino wool is a natural fine fiber obtained from Merino sheep. The popularity of wool from this animal is explained by the fact that it is thin and durable. Accordingly, all products made of merino wool are wear-resistant, while they have good heat-regulating properties.

Merino wool - properties

Any sheep wool has healing properties, as it is a natural material that absorbs and neutralizes all toxic substances released with sweat. As for merino wool, this yarn, in addition to toxins, absorbs moisture and warms perfectly. Merino wool garments are exceptionally dirt-resistant as their springy fiber structure repels dirt so that the garments are cleaned with a simple shake.

The natural properties of merino wool provide comfort both in winter cold and in summer heat. This material is actively used as a filler for blankets, under which it is so pleasant to sleep at any time of the year.

In conditions of high humidity, the wool heats up due to the exothermic processes occurring inside its fibers. And merino wool perfectly repels unpleasant odors, due to which it is widely used in tailoring - with it in bed there are no extra odors that arise due to the vital activity of bacteria on human skin.

Another useful property of sheep wool is soothing. Agree - it is very pleasant to return home after a difficult and stressful day and wrap yourself in a soft blanket made of merino wool.

Also, this material creates simply unacceptable conditions for the reproduction of bacteria due to the content of creatine in wool. And the water repellent that forms on the surface of the fibers repels any insects.

Merino wool products

First of all, merino wool is especially preferable over any other materials for the manufacture of various products for children. It is very soft, hypoallergenic, independently regulates the process of heat exchange, so that a child who cannot yet complain of cold or overheating feels comfortable.

In second place in popularity are plaids and blankets made of merino wool. They envelop a person with their warmth and softness, forcing them to forget all the troubles and indulge in a healthy deep sleep.

Merino wool sleepwear is also very popular. The reasons are hypoallergenicity, repulsive properties in relation to harmful microbes and bacteria, the content of lanolin in the material, which softens and soothes the skin, helps the body recover well during sleep.

Merino wool products made in Italy are quite famous: these are mainly blankets, blankets and which make the rest in the country, in the apartment incredibly comfortable. They are not processed with any additional dyes, so they remain environmentally friendly.

How to wash merino wool?

Merino wool products should be washed according to the instructions on the label. In general, things made from this fiber are not particularly prone to contamination due to good dirt-repellent properties, as well as the ability to self-clean. This is possible due to the special structure of merino wool. So frequent washing of things made of wool is not necessary. They just need to be periodically ventilated in moist air.

We hope that our article has helped you to better understand the properties of merino wool and understand what it is. Feel free to purchase products from this beautiful material and enjoy the process of their operation.

All people love comfortable fabrics made from natural threads. Any innovative artificial material cannot be compared with the finest natural sheep wool. It is elastic, soft and perfectly manifests itself in contact with the skin. Today, everyone has access to clothes made of woolen threads for adults and children, for work, home and leisure. At all times, merino wool is in trend and as practical as possible. The properties of products made from natural threads and the nuances of caring for clothes - you can learn about everything from this article.

Merino wool

What is merino wool?

Merino wool has been used by man for a very long time, for several centuries. This material has more and more fans, especially with the growing popularity of thermal underwear. It is believed that other types of wool are inferior to it in properties. This is a high-quality yarn, which is made from wool taken from fine-fleeced sheep. Merino sheep live in the specific climate of New Zealand and Australia. Their fur is a protective mechanism against temperature extremes. This climate zone has hot summers and very severe winters.

Sheep feel great in such a thin and thick wool, each hair is much thinner than a human and has an amazing warming effect. From this raw material, the lightest yarn of increased softness is obtained. Products do not irritate even children's skin.

Composition

Merino wool can have a different composition - there are yarns made from fibers of different thicknesses. All options are thinner than human hair. Due to the lanolin in the composition of the wool, it is not allergenic. Fiber is believed to have a beneficial effect on health. Lanolin dissolves in a temperature environment of 35-37 degrees, so it enters the skin. This substance improves the condition of the spine, muscles and joints, blood circulation and the respiratory system. It is known that lanolin has a resolving, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effect.

Neutral sheep wool contains creatine, which destroys bacteria on the skin, protecting against unpleasant odors.

Properties

It is known that the wool of Merino sheep is self-cleaning due to its cellular structure. The fibers interact and rub in a special way, miraculously repelling dirt. Things do not have to be washed often. Some merino products are not cleaned at all, only aired or lightly steamed.

Also, this material has high hygroscopicity and thermostatic effect. The layer of fibers keeps large volumes of air inside. Interestingly, clothing stably retains the heat of the human body, but does not cause overheating. Most of all, this issue is relevant in relation to children - they still cannot tell whether they are warm or cold, but in merino clothes they will find the right self-regulating microclimate.

Yarn with a cellular structure absorbs a lot of moisture, and also successfully removes it. Even when wet, the material is warm. Provides free air circulation, absorption and removal of moisture. In such clothes, children are warm in the cold and comfortable even in the heat. And again, let's give an example of the smallest ones - sleeping in merino wool clothes saves the child from overheating, improves sleep, soothes and reduces tearfulness.

Durable and lightweight wool material is so elastic that it can be stretched strongly and immediately return to its previous shape. Also note that the clothes do not deteriorate and do not deform from many washes. Things made from natural yarn always have a long service life.

Merino clothing is useful for osteochondrosis, muscle and joint pain, bronchial disease, orthopedic disorders and rheumatism.

Women adore merino clothing as it makes their body beautiful. The fact is that regular wear of woolen things helps to relieve swelling.

Merino wool products

Plaids

Modern merino blankets are so gentle and pleasant for the body that it is impossible not to buy them. The soft texture of the fabric makes you want to touch it again and again. Airy elastic yarn looks great in the living room or children's room. Manufacturers make blankets from natural fibers so that the user does not experience cold and heat. Merino blankets are ideal for children and owners of delicate skin. Moreover, the design of products is always original, they decorate the interior and make it cozy. Large knit blankets are especially beautiful.

Pillow

Pillows stuffed with sheep's wool are recommended for people with joint pain, rheumatism, and are not suitable for allergies and asthma. The filler produced in violation of the technology emits a smell, and the high-quality filler does not smell of anything. The peculiarity of the pillow with sheep's wool is that the filler can clot after a few months. Pillow covers are often made from percale. It is very comfortable to sleep, in the morning there is no feeling of fatigue, you can be on your stomach or back. Thanks to micro massage, blood circulation improves.

Blankets

Owners of merino blankets are guaranteed a serene sleep and good rest. A person after sleep feels rested and healthy. All the best properties of a camel blanket are inherent in merino, by the way, the latter weighs more, but is worn longer and is more practical. Woolen products create dry heat for a long time, have healing properties, are antistatic, breathable. Merino wool is resistant to bacteria and mold. This is the best option for children and people with very sensitive skin.

Bedding - pillows, blankets and merino blankets really do very well at home. You can use them regardless of the microclimate in the home and the time of year. Woolen sleepwear is especially needed for the elderly and young.

thermal underwear

A feature of thermal underwear is the warming of the body and the removal of moisture from the skin. Such clothes are made for adults and children, they must be worn tight. Ideally, in cold weather, it is worn on a naked body, then a layer of fleece and a top layer according to the weather. Merino thermal underwear can be used for everyday wear, fishing, wear on vacation. Feature is the high price. But the user pays for the best quality and their health. For example, a well-known manufacturer of merino wool thermal underwear is the Icebreaker brand.

Warm clothes

To feel only comfort and warmth in the cold months of the year, purchase the following merino wool products:

• hats - you will be surprised at the existing variety of models and colors, you will definitely find something for yourself;
• sweaters - any person will be happy with a merino sweater, it can be worn in different life situations and feel comfortable;
• cardigans - today cardigans of different colors and materials are ultra-popular, excellent, especially the most delicate fine merino wool, which will not go out of fashion for a long time;
• socks - cozy merino socks allow you to stay warm in any weather, if your feet are warm, then the likelihood of getting sick is minimal;
• children's overalls - you can buy overalls for any age, made of pleasant wool, the skin of the smallest is in perfect contact with the material.

Socks, sweaters and other things are perfectly ventilated, which is why they are so comfortable in winter. Wear merino wool for health, as it is believed that they have a beneficial effect on blood circulation. It is also important to know how to care for this delicate material - read about it below.

How to wash merino wool products?

Merino wool items should be washed delicately. There are several options for caring for clothes.

Handwash

Some items made from merino wool can only be washed by hand. This is the most delicate method of washing wool products. To properly wash a thing, you need a basin with warm water. Immerse the product in water, adding a mild detergent. Ideally, this should be a product designed specifically for wool. If there is no detergent for merino, then take any other - for silk, wool. Soak item for 5 minutes. After that, rinse the product with warm water until the detergent particles are completely removed.

Spin

The product needs to be slightly squeezed so that water comes out, but it should not be twisted and stretched. You can also use a towel - distribute a woolen thing over it, do not twist it tightly with a roll, so the liquid is absorbed into the fabric. Then you need to take another dry towel, put a thing on it and wait for it to dry. You can also hang the product on the dryer.

Machine wash

An easier way to wash woolen products is to use a machine. It is important to use the delicate mode. The wool wash mode is also suitable. You should not wash merino products on a normal or intensive cycle, otherwise things can deteriorate from fast movements and high speeds. The water must be warm. Temperature 30-60 degrees. Pour or pour into the machine a product that is suitable for woolen items.

Dry cleaning

If necessary, you can send products from merino to dry cleaning. But this method does not need to be used often. Professional dry cleaning involves the application of harsh chemicals. These substances, if used frequently, can damage the fibers. It is better to make hand washing the main care, and go to dry cleaning as a last resort when there are difficult stains.

Stain removal

If a product made of merino wool has been stained, it is better to remove the stains immediately. Detergents are removed with a mild detergent. Some folk remedies work well against greasy stains, for example, talc and starch. It is necessary to sprinkle the selected product on the problem area, gently rub it. Talc or starch should come out from the inside. Then shake the thing to brush off the powder. If the spots do not come off, you can try again. Do a simple manipulation until the greasy stain is removed.

When washing, evaluate the color of the water. If it has acquired the color of the product, then when rinsing, add a little table salt to the water. This product will help to fix the dyes in the fibers. When buying, it is advisable to study the manufacturer's advice regarding the care of woolen products. All information can be found on the packaging or labels. Some things can only be washed in water of a certain temperature or there are other special care conditions - pay attention to this.

There is a yarn of different thickness - strong (wide), medium (medium), superfine (thin), ultrafine (ultra-thin). Merino clothing is loved by adults and children all over the world due to its unique characteristics. This is an expensive grade of wool compared to others. Merino sheep produce more wool than other breeds. Sometimes other threads are woven into merino wool, such as synthetic acrylic fibers. Thus, the yarn becomes cheaper, but worse in quality. Choose conscientious manufacturers and enjoy wearing merino products.

Merino is a breed of sheep, mainly living in Australia. Their wool is valued for its high quality. The size of the animal is slightly smaller than that of an ordinary domestic sheep, but the main value of merino is its wool.

wool qualities

The length of the fiber is approximately 65-100 mm, the width is 24 microns (μm). There are several varieties of the Merino breed. The yarn obtained from such sheep also differs:

• wide or strong: its length is 23-24.5 microns;
• medium size or medium: length 19.6-22.9 microns;
• fine or fine: about 18.6-19.5 microns;
• very fine or superfine: length 15-18.5 microns;
• ultrafine or ultrafine: 11.5-15 microns.

Key Features

We list the main characteristics of merino wool:

1. Superfine wool is the most expensive, as Merino stock is very limited.
2. This type of yarn is great for weaving with several threads - in combination with cashmere, silk. By the way, manufacturers have invented a technology (it is very popular in New Zealand), thanks to which ultra-light knitwear is obtained as a result of production. For this, merino wool + possum fur yarn is mixed.
3. Wool has a high hypoallergenicity, perfectly removes moisture from the body. Thanks to the air particles that are between the fibers, the yarn has a high thermal effect.
4. The hygroscopicity of merino yarn is 30% of its own weight, after reaching this mark, the thread still continues to remove excess moisture from the skin, leaving the body dry. Such a retraction prevents the growth of bacteria and pathogenic organisms, which is excellent for skin with a high threshold of sensitivity, as well as for children with skin diseases or allergic reactions.
5. The distinctive quality that merino has is that its yarn is dirt-repellent to some extent. The fibers are so elastic that dirt does not stick to them. To clean the product, just shake it.
6. Wool has the ability to protect against unpleasant odors. Due to the special structure of the fibers, an environment unfavorable for the reproduction of bacteria is created inside, which prevents the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

Advantages and disadvantages

Among the shortcomings, it can only be noted that natural merino wool has a white color, and threads of a different shade with 100% content of only merino wool simply do not exist. Accordingly, in order to obtain a different shade, the wool is dyed or other fibers are added. However, impurities of other threads only worsen the quality of the yarn.

Another feature, rather than a drawback, is that thick merino yarn is difficult to work with. The diameter of the fibers can be about 2 cm, which gives an additional load on the hands of the needlewoman and obliges the use of special working tools, since simple knitting needles are not suitable for work.

If you look in more detail, then the thickest strands of wool are not yarn, but the raw material for its manufacture. If you look closely, it is a large number of hairs of wool, combed and laid parallel to each other by the factory method. This raw material is called tops (combed tape) and is similar in structure to cotton wool. In work, it behaves accordingly - fluffy, torn, stretched, frizzy. Products from tops are torn, do not hold their shape. In addition, untreated wool is not ready for direct contact with the skin, as it is not completely cleaned.

Large yarn, which contains 100% merino, is fibers manually twisted into bundles, about 1-2 cm thick. This yarn already behaves completely differently in work, but still it is not fully prepared.

Yarn for work

The spun and processed yarns are fibers that have undergone heat treatment and are completely ready for use. The fabric knitted from such wool does not fluff, does not tear and does not fall apart. The fibers are elastic, hold heat well and remove moisture.

The thickness of the threads can be from 5 mm to 2 cm in diameter. From this yarn you can knit both delicate things - sweaters, sweaters, cardigans, as well as fashion accessories - blankets, bags, hats, scarves.

Features of care

From the wool that merino gives, the yarn is very delicate. When washing, the product must not be left in water for a long time. Twisting or squeezing things out of this yarn is also not recommended. Only light hand pressing is allowed. To dry, the product is laid out on a flat surface. If it seems that the form is lost, then it is necessary to give the thing the parameters that were before washing. After drying, the yarn will acquire its former elasticity and softness, and the product will return to its shape.

Wool that has not been spun is not subject to washing, since after it it is processed. Things after dry cleaning take on a different look and do not return to their previous appearance. Such wool can only be used for products that are not supposed to be washed.

From the wool that merino gives, the yarn is perfect - high quality, warm, soft, delicate. In work, adapting to such threads is quite difficult, but the result will be worth it. Products made from such yarn look unusual and perfectly emphasize the taste of their owner.